- Simple Autumn Craft Ideas
by Deborah
Taylor-Hough
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I love the changing seasons at
this time of year, especially when the fall colors start to show,
there's a nip in the air, and it's time to break out the sweaters
from their summer storage boxes. If you're looking for some craft
ideas to share with your kids, try one of the following.
Leaf Prints:
-- Make your own cards or gift
wrap by using nature's bounty of freshly fallen leaves. Use poster
paint for printing on paper (for cards, gift wrap, etc.), or
use acrylic paint if you decide to decorate an item that needs
a waterproof finish (glassware, clay pots, etc.). Brush a small
amount of paint onto the underside of the leaf where the veins
are more pronounced. Carefully place the leaf where you want
the design printed and cover with a layer of paper towel. Gently
roll a rolling pin over the top (or you can use the side of an
empty bottle). Remove the paper towel and lift the leaf. |
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Wheat Weaving:
-- Soak wheat on the stalk (from
craft stores or local farmers) in a tub of water for an hour
or so. Holding three seed heads together, braid the stems of
the wheat stalks. Curve the ends around to make an oval loop,
a circle wreath, or even bend it a bit to make a heart shape.
Tie with brightly colored ribbon. As the stalks dry, they'll
hold their shape. Add to your autumn decorations.
Baked Pumpkin Seeds:
-- After all the pumpkin carving
or pie making, don't throw out the seeds. Separate the seeds
from the stringy pulp (don't rinse or remove every last bit of
the pulp -- the pulp adds flavor). Place the seeds on a cookie
sheet, stir in about 1/4 cup of melted butter or margarine, sprinkle
with a small amount of salt and then bake in a 350 degree oven
for 10 minutes until lightly browned. Enjoy! |
