Paper Plate Crafts - Scarecrow

Paper plates are an inexpensive background for many craft projects.   This Scarecrow is one of many that can be done at home or with a large group.   The patterns are simple circles, triangle, squares and rectangles.  They are easy to cut out for all age groups.   I've used large googley eyes, but contruction paper or markers are fine.  The project can be hung with yarn, cord or raffia.  This Scarecrow looks great on a door or wall and can be used for Halloween, Thanksgiving or any Fall events.

Racing Cars - Great Project for Scouts

I recently purchased a Racing Car craft kit for my K-3 after-school craft group. The project was meant to be a racing car magnet. The finished product was pretty small; about 5"x2". It was also a pretty quick project. I decided to make it into something a little more substantial. I took some leftover cardboard picture frames and we added the cars to the front, along with some racing flags (cut out of contruction paper). I also used some heavy poster board to make door knob hangers. The kids loved making them, especially the boys who are sometimes reluctant crafters. The checkered flag I found on the internet and made small copies so they'd fit on both.

All in all it was a pretty successful project.

Materials List for Ghost and Haunted House

Materials list:
Construction Paper - Blue, Black, Yellow, Orange, White
Card Stock
Black Marker
Wiggly Eyes
Hole punch
Yarn for Hanging

The overall project is 9 3/4"x 8". You can use leftover materials for this. Recycled cardboard works great. For large groups I recommend using shirt cardboard which comes in a pack of 50 from a craft catalog. It's about $9.00 and lasts a long time.

This Halloween decoration looks great on a front door or window. It also makes a wonderful party decoration.

Halloween

Here's a craft project that is great for scout groups, after-school groups or crafting at home with your kids.

Arts and Crafts for Kids

Hi, this is my first blog. I've been crafting for over 20 years. I currently work with kids at an after-school program and seniors at a senior center. I've been a scout leader and arts and crafts coordinator for a summer camp program.

Over the years, I've done hundreds of projects and used many different materials. I work with paint, wood, paper, beads - you name it! I've had successes and failures.

Whether you're working with a larger or small group, cost is a factor. Everyone is feeling the economic pinch these days. So, I like to be as thrifty as possible. When I can, I use recycled materials.

I hope to share my ideas and crafting experiences with you. I have some great ideas for the Holidays and Rainy Days. So stay tuned.