As I was going through my craft closet, I began to sort through my children’s markers, and started to throw out the ones that were dried up or had flat tips. Then I realized I was missing out on a great craft opportunity! I gathered up all the marker caps and any other odds and ends I could find and came up with a great craft project for my kids: Recycled wind chimes. This project took some preparation time for my youngest artists but once they were able to get started, they had a great time being creative.
What you need:
2-liter bottle (with cap)
Xacto knife
Medium-size nail
Hammer (optional)
Needle-nose pliers
Candle (open flame)
Fishing wire (optional)
Pipe cleaners
Beads
Marker and bottle caps
Scissors
Any odds and ends that make noise when bumped together
What to do:
Before you call the kids to the craft table, cut the top off the 2-liter bottle, at least four inches down from the top. You can also use the bottom of the bottle if you don’t have the cap.
Using the needle-nose pliers, hold the nail over the open flame until hot. Press a hole in the center of the bottle cap. Repeat to press holes around the rim of the of bottle top. (See picture 5)
If you are using marker and bottle caps, repeat the above step to press a hole in each cap.
Now you’re ready for the kids! String the odds and ends on the pipe cleaners and/or fishing wire and tie a strand through each hole in the bottle top.
Don’t forget to hang some pretties from the top center cap. Be sure to leave enough wire at the top to tie a loop for hanging.
Tips and tricks:
Younger kids will find this craft easier to do with pipe cleaners instead of fishing wire.
Use beads to anchor the loop in the top bottle cap
Use the hammer and nail to poke holes in metal pieces
String larger caps to help capture the wind
Make your wind chime with a theme
Visit garage sales or clearance bins at craft stores for unique odds and ends
Perfect as gifts
Odds and ends ideas:
Old silverware
Metal bottle caps
Old parts of jewelry
Pennies
Mason jar lids
Seashells
Measuring spoons and cups
Keys
Bells
Nuts and bolts
Plastic Easter eggs
Happy crafting!
Source:
My own imagination
