Favorite Hands-On Activities with Bonus How-To

There are different mediums in which art can be created. Writing and photography are art in their own right. While I’m also familiar with those types, I would like to bring up the “crafts” aspect of arts and crafts.

I like being able to actively do something with me hands, whether it’s stringing beads into a bracelet or folding paper to take form of objects. Some of my earliest memories go back to elementary school, where my mom and I would often make beaded bracelets. I would help her so that she could sell them to friends or co-workers.

Now, I want to tell you about some of my favorite and simple craft activities.

Lucky Stars

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Lucky stars are small paper stars that you can make out of strips of paper. The reason I love doing these is because it’s a simple way of making small decorate pieces. All you have to do is use colored and patterned paper and fill a glass jar with them. Decorate the jar or add a bow and it can make a cute gift for a friend. To learn how to make them, look here!

Knitting

I learned how to do the basic garter stich a few years ago but recently got back into it. I find knitting to be therapeutic and usually multi-task movies while doing so. I am currently halfway through a deep red scarf! It’s my first full-fledged knitting project and it’s funny to see the amount of mistakes lessen the longer the scarf gets.

Washer Pendants

A friend taught me how to make these pendants while I was visiting her in Austin, so unfortunately I don’t have the exact tutorial since the ones I have searched for differ, but it’s super simple. Here's what you'll need:

• Scrapbook paper
• Metal washers
• Craft/wood glue
• Glossy Accents
• X-acto knife
• Nail file

The quick run-down: First you're going to use the metal washer to help trace out the shape of the scrapbook paper with the x-acto knife. Carefully cut out the middle, too.

Second, paste your paper ring onto the washer. Press down while wiping away any excess glue and then wait to dry.

Third, use your nail file to smooth out the edges.

Lastly, carefully spread the glossy accents liquid all over the top of the washer. I advise to start circling the inside ring and go outwards. The goal is have no air bubbles.

Wait to dry, string it, and you have yourself a necklace!

Feel free to let me know what your favorite crafts are.