Talk about a great hobby; you can't go wrong with frugal crafts. They're not only fun cheap things to do, but they let you tap into your creativity, imagination and it's a great way to bond with your family!
- Frosting The Windows
When you've gone through the carwash with kids, one of their favorite parts of the wash is when the soap completely covers the windows; especially if it's the colored soap. The same applies to home windows.
The windows look cool and create privacy as well. I'll buy an inexpensive frosted glass spray paint and painters tape from our local hardware store or home depot. You'll also need scissors and cardboard.
Ok, the key is the prep. You'll want to take the time to use painters tape and newspaper or plastic sheathing to cover all areas by the window that you don't want spray painted. Also, please use a painter’s mask and have good ventilation in the room from the paint fumes.
Once the prep is done, it's time to paint. Make sure you read the directions on the can since different spray paints have different application methods. You'll want to shake the spray can for about a minute, then apply a practice coating to a piece of cardboard.
Now you’re all set. Generally, you'll want to apply uniform coatings (inside windows only); as directed on the bottle.
- The Wonderful Coffee Filter
You'd be surprised how many really neat things you can make with filters. We've made fish, butterflies, you name it. You can Google "coffee filter crafts", pick the one’s you like and then read the detail to construct these gems.
- Collages
The kids sometimes spend hours doing these and they're really nice. They'll apply patterns, glitter and stickies to construction paper. What you can also do to let their imagination's go wild is have them use crayons or paint.
You'd be astounded with what they can come up with. I know my kids didn't get their art talent from Tim or myself because these crafts are just beautiful.
- Balloons
You can take a balloon and use markers to draw faces, add button ears, yarn for hair and then put a hat on it. We've also taken a thin wood stick at stuck it to the bottom of the balloon and waalaah, you have a stick woman or man.
Many times, these balloon characters become a child's friend where they'll have a conversation with the balloon or let it play tea party when the other girls come over.
- Bookmarks
When it comes to frugal crafts, this is a favorite. These are really terrific and I have two that I use; one from each of my girls. You can make really neat bookmarkers using construction paper, markers or paint, glitter and stickies.
You can also take a digital photo of your child and glue it to the bookmark. To keep the bookmark sturdy, you can either paint the construction paper or get it laminated very inexpensively at an office supply store.
