There is a big Michael’s near Sam’s Club and the main Wal Mart. The exceptionally helpful staff regretted that about all they had with comic themes were stickers (which I ended up buying, also). I spotted 2011 calendars on sale for $1 and found a great Dora the Explorer calendar. You’ve heard the expression, “Necessity is the mother of invention”? Well, I’m the mother they are talking about. I did not survive Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, 4-H, teaching, and the Army by throwing my hands up in despair and quitting. Rather, I learned to look at what was available and design a plan for it.
This is my DIY jewelry necklace. I will write directions for other projects after Halloween, so people can use the ideas for Christmas gifts.DIY jewelry making is fun for all the family.
All of the following items were at Michael’s. I am not sure how long the sale will last, but like most smart merchants everywhere, they will have another when this one ends. Michael’s exists on DIY customers.
What I used
Creatology Halloween trinket necklace kit $1
Nickelodeon Dora the Explorer 16-month 2011 calendar $1
Tacky glue $.79
For those of you who keep supplies on hand (I donated mine last June):
6 medium wooden beads, mixed colors and sizes, or all the same
1 wooden slide, about 1 ½” h, 1″ w, and ¼” thick, to glue picture to. Holes drilled from one side to other.
1 – 24″ piece of thin round elastic string, for the necklace.
Tacky glue, or wood glue that will not harm the paper character
Ages 7 and older should enjoy making this item. Teenage girls may want to cut the size down to make loose bracelets.
Step by Step
1. Cut out the character to fit the large slide. Apply tacky glue to the back of the picture and affix to the slide. Let dry
2. Divide the beads into two equal stacks.
3. Thread the first stack.
4. Put the cartoon character slide on the thread, facing outward.
5. Thread the second stack so that the shapes or colors match the order of the first one( see example)
6. Match the edges of the threaded elastic string. Without stretching, knot, and then double-knot.
The project is finished.
For those of you with a plentiful supply of craft items, let your imagination go wild. Add colorful glass or plastic beads between the wooden ones, and on each side of the theme slide. Jewelry ideas are good things to jot down in-between craft projects.
Safety warnings
Not suitable for children under three years of age
Elastic cord can become entangled on doorknobs, locker hooks, and such.
Do not wear while sleeping.
Not a toy.
I hope you enjoy this idea, and that it is a hit around your family. My groups have always enjoyed working with crafts, and this is a favorite.
No sources were used for this craft. It is one I have used over the years for various groups.
