Daily Doodle notebooks

It's been a while since I've written but I've been so very busy.

I did this little project with my art groups at church and the kids just loved them.

Supplies: scrapbook paper or handpainted paper, hole punch, scissors, ribbon

Cut the paper into small squares or rectangles. We cut ours slightly bigger than a playing card. Punch two holes in one side with about an inch between. Stack together and string the ribbon through the holes and tie in a pretty bow (double knot).

Now you have a pocket-sized notepad, doodle book, or prayer list to keep with you all the time!

Christmas in July!

What a fun project - make Christmas ornaments or gifts in the middle of July to mark the half-way point. So many things you could do here.

1) Peruse thrift store shops for wooden candlesticks to paint in red, white and green. Or find old spoons, bend the handle so it will hang, and paint it with snowmen, Santa, or trees. Or keep it simple and paint stars in traditional (or non-traditional) colors.

2) Go ahead and make a Christmas tee or sweatshirt. Paint a green triangle. Let dry. Paint a gold or yellow star on the top. Use red, blue, and yellow to paint balls on the tree. Let dry. Outline each ball, star, and tree with black paint that has a pointed writing tip. Let dry.

3) Use scrapbook paper to make Christmas cards. All you'll have to do is insert a family picture, sign it, and send! No more spending money on boxes of cards and your recipients will appreciate a handmade gesture so much more.

So...happy early holiday season and happy crafting!
jen