“While art is an open-ended or ‘unstructured’ activity, crafts are goal oriented or ‘structured’.” Art therapist Anna Reyner
We love crafting with the kids. Arts are different than crafts. Arts let the kids express their feelings and show creativity, which are amazing for kids. But crafts work a different life skill, following directions. So we try to do a mix of arts and crafts with the kids every week.
By following a simple set of steps, in the correct order, they will complete their craft. This builds self esteem and teaches kids how amazing it feels to meet a goal.
This is a super cute winter craft that my older daughter loved, and the boys loved helping along. Team work with siblings is such a good family activity too! It actually snowed on island 2 years ago, my sweet kids were amazed.
CLOTHESPIN SNOWFLAKE CRAFT
Old wooden clothespins transform into adorable winter snowflakes!
Supplies:
- Wooden Clothespins, Small, Medium and Large
- Craft Paint – White
- Decoupage Glue
- Glitter, Iridescent
- Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
- Paintbrush
- Scissors
- Ribbon and Baker’s Twine, Red and Green – 10” lengths
Instructions:
STEP ONE
Gather all supplies. Remove the metal spring clip from the wooden clothespins.
STEP TWO
Flip the clothespin pieces and glue the flat sides together with a glue gun and glue sticks. Mom or Dad should probably use the hot glue gun, but if your kids are old enough – you decide.
STEP THREE
Assemble each snowflake by creating a cross with four clothespins and then adding clothespins in the four diagonal sections.
STEP FOUR
Basecoat each snowflake with white craft paint using a paintbrush. Let dry and apply a second coat, if necessary.
STEP FIVE
Apply a layer of decoupage glue to top of each snowflake with a paintbrush. Over a plain piece of paper, sprinkle snowflake with clear glitter, gather the paper and return excess glitter to its container.
STEP SIX
Layer the snowflakes with glue gun and glue sticks to create added dimension and interest to the ornaments.
STEP SEVEN
To finish, glue a loop with a bow of baker’s twine or ribbon to the back of the snowflake.
This fun activity will keep the kiddos busy with counting and motor skills. When it’s too cold to go outside, this is a fun craft to do inside. You could totally create a blizzard in just about 30 minutes, Elsa would be proud!
For More Fun Crafts Check out
Mickey and The Roadster Racer Motor Skills