Felt like a tutorial: Kids Crafts

Summer has arrived at our household and I’m going for a multi-tiered approach of activities; utilizing both a ‘bucket-list’ and an ‘I’m bored’ container. The ‘bucket-list’ is an actual bucket with clothespins around the top, each one with a different place or fun item written on it. Once we complete an activity, we put the clothespin into the bucket. It’s a great way for the kids to visually see how many awesome things we’ve done so far!

The ‘I’m bored’ container is a way for the kids to entertain themselves if I’m in the middle of preparing a meal and can’t drive anywhere or help them get something started. Within the first hour of summer on the first full day of no school for either of my children, all ‘I’m bored’ activities were read and completed or deemed unworthy. I might need to look into a third tier here… since there are several more weeks of summer staring me in the face. Maybe I need a ‘Mommy needs a break’ bucket, filled with relaxing suggestions of ways I can take a few moments for myself and breathe deeply in between trips to the swimming pool and library? The problem is – I would enjoy it way too much and probably work my way through that bucket within the first day as well!

These felt craft projects should provide several solid hours of entertainment for the kids, and maybe for the parents too!

1. Juice Box Monsters – from Crafts by Amanda
Wrap up an empty juice box with felt and create a scary face.

2. Camp Charm Bags – from Family Fun
With a little basic sewing, kids can create their own treasure bag.

3. Felt Crown – from Somewhere in the Middle
Shape a crown out of felt and add an elastic band, genius!

4. Coffee Cozy – from That Artist Woman
Basic embroidery and a piece of felt make a cute Father's Day gift.

5. Ocean Scene – from Craftster
Use this as inspiration for helping your little ones create their own felt masterpiece.

6. Felt Flower Tiara – from This is Me Inspired
Lace pre-cut felt flowers onto pipe cleaners for a beautiful tiara.

7. Flower Rings – from Givers Log
Layer felt and fabric, add a button center and the pipe cleaner creates a ring.

8. Acorn Owls – from Designer: Helen Bird
Add eyes, beaks and wings to a few acorns and you have a play land!

9. Felt Decorated Journal – from Better Homes and Gardens
Cover a journal with felt and personalize the front with more felt shapes.

Jen Van Oosbree is a stay-at-home mom with two daughters and enjoys spending the summer at the local swimming pool. She brings monthly DIY selections to the world of Benzie Felt Fanfare.