Summer looks a little different this year, and many of us have had to postpone our beach vacations for a season. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have your own backyard beach party! Get ready to dig out your swimsuit because we’re bringing the beach to you! Here are 23 ideas for a beach staycation! 

1. Beach and Sea Squish Bags– Kids can start to explore the wonders of the ocean with Fantastic Fun and Learning‘s sensory bags.

2. Water Fight Kit– Can’t have a beach day without water and Inner Child Fun‘s water fight kit is just the thing!

3. Butterscotch Crunch Starfish– These yummy starfish look almost real! Try this treat at Hungry Happenings!

4. Mason Jar Aquarium– Make this fun aquarium without all the maintenance at A Little Claireification.

5. Pool Noodle Fishing Game– Here’s a fun easy game from Happy Tot Shelf that is perfect for your littler grandkids!

6. Shark Fruit Salad– Maybe if sharks tried some fruit salad, they wouldn’t be such dangerous predators anymore…. Find this amazing idea at Kid Friendly Things to Do.

7. Marbled Seashell Art– Turn seashells into a work of art with Projects with Kids‘s marbles seashells.

8. Flying Fish Catch– A fun, easy water game from Mrs. Plemon’s Kindergarten  that kids will love!

9. Glitter Fish Painted Rock– Learn how to make these beautiful rocks at I Love Painted Rocks.

10. Sea Glass Candy– Happiness is Homemade ‘s sea glass candy looks almost too real and pretty to eat…. almost….

11. Beach Water Table– Little hands will love exploring the wonders of the ocean with Sugar, Spice, and Glitter‘s fun water table idea!

12. Beach Fruit Dip– This fun fruit dip is a kid favorite! Make it right here at This Grandma is Fun!

13. No-Sew Felt Mermaid Headband– If you have a mermaid for a granddaughter, then you will love Lia Griffith‘s pretty and simple headband!

14. Shark Surfboard Craft– Nothing says the beach like sharks and surfing. Find this craft at Artsy Momma.

15. Clam Cookies– If you’re looking for a treat that is easy but eye-catching, then this is the treat for you! Check it out at Frugal Coupon Living.

16. DIY Slip and Slide– For some natural beach waves in your hair, you’ll have to try All Things Thrifty‘s slip and slide! It’s sure to do the trick!

17. Candy Seashells– Just from the picture, I know I’d be snacking on these gorgeous chocolates all day long. Learn how to make them at The American Patriette.

18. Jellyfish Races– Bring out the family competition with Living Porpoisefully‘s exciting game!

19. Ocean Sand Art– What’s the beach without sand? Make beautiful works of art with The Growing Creatives‘s sand activity.

20. Mermaid Ice Excavation– This activity from Mama. Papa. Bubba. is sure to keep the kids occupied for hours. Perfect for when you need a break!

21. Flip-Flop Sandwiches– These sandwiches from Cutefetti really are the cutest!

22. Water Balloon Volley Ball– A true summer classic, this game from It’s Always Autumn fits right in with a beach staycation!

23. Beach Books– When it’s time for a little bit of quiet, Fantastic Fun and Learning‘s got you covered with this list of beach themed books the kids are sure to love!

Which of these 23 ideas for a beach staycation are you going to try out first?

The post 23 Ideas for a Beach Staycation appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Is it just me, or is staying inside all day long mind numbingly boring? If you’re feeling my pain, I’m sure your kids are feeling it even more! If you’re looking for something to keep them engaged while soaking up some vitamin D, we’re here to help you with 25 ideas to get your kids outside. 

1. Pouring Station– This activity from Busy Toddler will keep your little ones busy for hours!

2. Coffee Can Ice Cream– If you love a little dessert after burning lots of calories, than this activity from Living Well Mom is perfect for you!

3. Play Garden– Dirt and childhood go hand in hand, especially with The Imagination Tree‘s beautiful play garden!

4. Puffy Sidewalk Paint– Upgrade from regular old sidewalk chalk to Midget Momma‘s puffy sidewalk paint!

5. Old School Outside Games– Need something low maintenance? Check out Living in Happy Place‘s outside games that require little to no extra equipment or planning!

6. Nature Color Wheel– Show off all the beautiful colors found in nature with Mother Natured ‘s color wheel scavenger hunt!

7. Dinosaur Ice Excavation– If you need something fun that will take up a long time, you have to try Parenting Chaos‘s dinosaur excavation!

8. Water Pistol Painting– Water guns are not only great for water fights, but also artistic expression, like in this activity from Messy Little Monster.

9. Spring Sun Catchers– These sun catchers from I Can Teach My Child are simple, yet beautiful.

10. Rainbow Clean Mud– You read that right. Clean. Mud. It’s like a miracle from above! Find the recipe from Frogs, Snails, and Puppy Dog Tails!

11. Tin Can Bowling– For those of you with a serious aversion to wearing borrowed, dirty shoes at the bowling alley (me!), you’ll love A Girl and A Glue Gun‘s tin can version of bowling!

12. Human Ring Toss Game– Kids will love this fun twist on the classic backyard game from Kid Friendly Things To Do!

13. DIY Bean Pole Teepee– Can you imagine the memories you’re little ones will make in this bean pole teepee from Artful Parent?

14. Bubble Snake Maker– With just a few simple materials, you can make these fun bubble snakes from Mum in the Mad House.

15. Sidewalk Chalk Board Game– Liven up the sidewalk with Views from a Step Stool‘s fun game!

16. Garden Sensory Bin-Help your children experience the joys of gardening with this sensory bin from Mess for Less.

17. Water Table Paint and Print– Put that water table to use with No Time for Flash Cards‘s fun activity.

18. Obstacle Course– If you’re looking for something to expend some of that extra energy, you’ll love this obstacle course idea from Playing and Learning Begins at Home!

19. Backyard Bug Hunt– What kid doesn’t love bugs? Find this fun scavenger hunt at The Littles and Me.

20. Nature Tree– Make a beautiful picture with all the treasures you find in nature! Check it out at Raising Hooks.

21. Tic Tac Toe Painted Rocks– Take tic tac toe outside with Run Wild My Child‘s tic tac toe rocks!

22. Garden Xylophone– Music and nature- a perfect combination! Try it out at The Moments At Home!

23. Backyard Mud Cafe– Make your child’s dreams come true with this mud cafe from The Crafting Chicks.

24. Monster Footprint Hop– This game from Raising Dragons is perfect for fun memories and burning a little energy.

25. Pinecone Mobiles– Is it just me, or do kids love collecting pinecones? Put them to use with Happy Hooligans‘s pinecone mobile!

We hope our list of 25 ideas to get your kids outside will help make this difficult time a little easier. Stay happy and stay healthy! 

The post 25 Ideas to Get Your Kids Outside appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Bees are buzzing, birds are singing, and the sun is shining. You know what that means? Springtime is almost here! What better way to celebrate than with beautiful flowers all over your home?! Freshen up your house with these 27 fabulous floral DIY decorations!

1. Floral Letter– Who knew the alphabet could be so pretty? Find this DIY at The Stonybrook House.

2. Tulip Wreath DIY– If you love beautiful things, but hate difficult projects, you’ll love this tutorial from The How To Mom.

3. Flower Chandelier– Here’s the light fixture you never knew you needed. Go to We Are Scout for the tutorial!

4. Spring Hoop Wreath–
Add some color to your home with Hello Central Hoop ‘s easy DIY.

5. Farmhouse Neutral Floral Centerpiece– This centerpiece from Making Joy & Pretty Things will bring spring right to your table!

6. Floral Swag– If you’re looking for something a little more elaborate, try Home Talk‘s DIY swag.

7. DIY Macramé  Wall Hanging– Ruffled‘s wall hanging will make you feel like you’re living in a beautiful flower garden!

8. Eucalyptus Spring Wreath– Not only is this wreath from Bitterroot DIY beautiful, but it is quick and easy too!

9. Flower Garland– When it comes to adding spring time flair to your home, look no further! This garland from Hunker is exactly what you need!

10. Gradient Flower Vase– I love decorations that look like they took a lot of skill and time to make, but were actually super easy, like these vases from A Kailo Chic Life.

11. Felt Flower Wall Hanging– Add a splach of color to your wall with Crafts Unleashed‘s wall hanging.

12. Painted Bottle Spring Centerpiece– Cottage at the Crossroads‘s DIY is the perfect elegant piece for any table.

13. Large Paper Flowers– Why limit yourself to fabric flowers? You’ll love these big, bright paper flowers from Sweet Red Poppy.

14. Sage and Blush Spring Wreath– We love how Bless’er House arranged the flowers on this wreath. So elegant!

15. Pressed Flower Art– What is it about pressed flowers that make them so romantic? Learn how to make beautiful artwork with pressed flowers at Swoodson Says.

16. Hydrangea Fern Wreath– We love the neutral colors on this wreath from The Happier Homemaker.

17. Floral Garland with Lights– The Craft Patch‘s easy garland will add some magic to any home.

18. Polymer Flower Vase– For anyone interested in learning how to create art with clay, you’ll love this beginners tutorial from Little Yellow Wheel Barrow.

19. Floral Pom Poms– Sumptuous and rich in color, these pom poms from Honestly WTF are the perfect spring time decoration!

20. Dried Flower Wreath– You can find dried flowers just by searching outside, no craft store needed! Check out this tutorial at Magnolia.

21. DIY Floral Frame– Look at all the colors in this beautiful frame from Edie Rose Ashley!

22. Floral Mobile– This mobile from Raleigh Calligraphy  will bring sweet dreams for baby every night!

23. Spring Flower Arrangement– Be your own florist with this easy DIY from Sanctuary Home Decor!

24. Embroidery Hoop Pocket Wreath– We love this original take on hoop wreaths from Orange Bettie!

25. Floral Cloche– Putnam & Putnam‘s DIY cloche seems like something out of a fairy tale!

26. Mason Jar Sconce– Light up your home with these lovely floral sconces from The Latina Next Door.

27. Floral Shadow Box– Who says gardens are just for outside? Put one on your wall with this clever frame from Elizabeth Craft Design.

Did you find any ideas on our list of 27 fabulous floral DIY decorations that you’d like to try? Send us a picture and let us know how it turns out!

The post 27 Fabulous Floral DIY Decorations appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

If sala-ma-goox, humpf-humpf-a-dumpfer, and fiffer-feffer-feff  hold any meaning to you, you are probably a Dr. Seuss fan. And if you’re a Dr. Seuss fan, then you are probably getting ready to celebrate his birthday on March 2nd. Lucky for you, we put together 21 wubbulous party ideas for Dr. Seuss Day to get your party started! 

1. Red Fish, Blue Fish Handprint Puppets– Read Dr. Seuss stories with these fun puppets from The Resourceful Mama!

2. Truffula Tree Cake Pops– Canadian Family‘s cake pops are so whimsical, just like Dr. Seuss’s stories!

3. Thing One and Thing Two Blow Painting– I Heart Crafty Things

4. Cat in the Hat Mini Top Hat– This hat craft from Party Delights is a perfect costume piece for a Dr. Seuss party.

5. Hop on Pop Balloon Game– Play this balloon game from Toddler Approved for a perfect Dr. Seuss party!

6. Printable Bookmarks– What could be better for a party about books than bookmarks, like these from Simple Every Day Mom?

7. Lorax Coffee Filter Art– A simple, beautiful craft from Little Bins for Little Hands.

8. Green Eggs and Ham Slime– I do not like green eggs and ham, I do not like them Sam I am! Unless it’s this slime from Laly Mom.

9. Horton Hears a Who Balloon Card– If you’re a fan of Horton Hears a Who, you’ll love Glued to My Crafts‘s elephant cards!

10. Dr. Seuss Cookies– Deliciously Declassified‘s fun, colorful cookies are sure to be a hit!

11. Cat in the Hat Photo Craft– A keepsake and craft rolled into one! That’s my kind of craft! Find it at I Heart Arts and Crafts.

12. Oh, the Places You’ll Go Cupcakes– Celebrate Dr. Seuss Day with these cute cupcakes from Craft Play Learn and you’ll find a fun surprise inside!

13. Dr. Seuss Sensory Play with Kinetic Sand– This activity from The Educator’s Spin On It is perfect for little hands!

14. Finger Puppets– Try storytelling with Fun Family Crafts‘s finger puppets!

15. Tweedle Beetle Bottle– Bring the Tweedle Beetle Puddle Paddle Battle Muddle to life with 30 Minute Crafts‘s bottle craft!

16. Easy Star-bellied Sneetch Shirt– You don’t need Sylvester McMonkey McBean’s machine to get a star on your belly with Organized 31‘s easy diy.

17. Free Printable Dr. Seuss Headbands– Who doesn’t love free printables? Find these cute headbands at Simple Every Day Mom.

18. One Fish, Two Fish Jello Cups– Am I the only one who didn’t know Swedish fish came in different colors? My life has been changed. Check out Cupcake Diaries for this quick, and easy treat!

19. Fox in Socks Dress-Up Costume– Dress to impress with this fun costume from Happy Together!

20. Cat in the Hat Kabobs– No Dr. Seuss party would be complete without a Cat in the Hat snack, and we found the perfect one at Modern Mom Life!

21. Truffula Tree Pencil Craft– Take a little Dr. Seuss with you to school or work with this pencil craft from Chica Circle!

Hope you enjoyed our list! Tell us how it goes with these wubbulous party ideas! 

The post 21 Wubbulous Party Ideas for Dr. Seuss Day appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

It’s the most wonderful time of year again, which means it’s time to deck the halls with boughs of holly! If you need some fresh ideas, check out our list of 101 gorgeous DIY Christmas decorations!

A beautiful sight, we’re happy tonight, walking in a winter wonderland!

1. Shutter Snowman– Shutters are so fun to decorate, and we love this idea for shutters from Let’s Create Events.

2. Pallet Christmas Trees– Our Home Made Easy

3. Jingle Bell Strap– I hope one day to wake up to the sound of sleigh bells dashing through the snow. Until then, I will just give this bell strap from The Wood Grain Cottage a good shake!

4. Snowman Luminarie– Ginger Snap Crafts‘s luminaries not only are a cute decoration, but are a fun kids’ craft too!

5. Snowflake Wall Hanging– We love this simple, rustic decoration from The Crafted Sparrow.

6. Painted Snowman Logs– If you want to make a snowman, but not necessarily be in the snow, you’ll love Hip 2 Save ‘s snowman logs!

7. Evergreen Table Runner Center Piece– Add some beautiful, vibrant color to your home with Home Is Where the Boat Is‘s table runner.

8. Easy Rustic Snowman Ornament– Easy? Count me in! Find this diy at The Inspiration Edit.

9. No Sew Christmas Tree Pillow– That’s right! No sew! You’ll love On Sutton Place‘s tutorial!

10. Yarn Wrapped Snowman– We love the simplicity in Frugal Mom, Eh!‘s snowmen.

11. Sock Snowman– You can make this cuddly snowman at My Humble Home and Garden.

12. Fishbowl Snowman– Oh So Lovely!‘s snowman likes warm hugs!

13. Evergreen Outdoor Planters– These planters from Threads & Blooms will add a vibrant, green freshness in the middle of all the snowy white.

14. Mason Jar Snowman– We love mason jar crafts (as you’ll soon see!) and think this craft from PJs and Paint is a fun addition to Christmas time!

15. Fleece Cone Christmas Tree– Don’t these look so fancy?! Make them yourself with this tutorial from Happy Happy Nester.

16. Sugar String Snowmen– For anyone looking for a show stopper that’s secretly really easy to make, try out Kids’ Activities‘s snowman!

17. Modern Wooden Christmas Tree Set– If you like more of a modern look, than try out Curbly‘s diy trees!

You know Dasher, and Dancer, and Prancer, and Vixen….

18. Farmhouse Reindeer Name Sign– For those of us who have a hard time remembering all the different reindeer names, The Girl Creative has the perfect sign for you!

19. Burlap Reindeer Garland– How cute are these reindeer from Create Craft Love?!

20. Rose Gold Glitter Reindeer– In case you don’t think your reindeer is magical enough, add some glitter with KA Styles‘s tutorial!

21. Clothespin Reindeer Ornament– Looking for an easy craft to do with the kids? Try our reindeer clothespin ornaments!

22. 3D Reindeer– I have always wanted to know how to make these reindeer decoration! I see them everywhere! Thanks, The Crafty Blog Stalker!

23. String Art Reindeer– For those who are obsessed with string art (like me!), you’ll love Clean and Scentsible‘s tutorial!

24. Reindeer Christmas Sign– We love the antlers on One Thousand Oaks Home Decor‘s sign!

25. Rudolph the Reindeer Tulle Wreath– This wreath is for all you Rudolph fans out there! Check it out at Baby Rabies.

26. Felt Reindeer Ornament– This ornament from Big Family Blessings is fun to make for the whole family!

27. Reindeer Pillow– Since most of us won’t be cuddling with reindeer any time soon, here’s the perfect substitute from Our Southern Home!

28. Reindeer Christmas Mason Jar– Polkadot Chair‘s makes a great gift for friends and neighbors!

You better watch out, you better not cry. You better not pout, I’m telling you why. Santa Claus is coming to town!

29. Front Porch North Pole Arrow– In case you need directions to the North Pole, here’s this helpful sign from The Happy Scraps!

30. Santa Belt Wreath– Who would Santa be without his iconic belt? Find this craft at Suburban Mom.

31. Santa Chimney Mishap– I mean, it has to happen some times, right? Big man, little chimney. Good thing he’s magic! Check out the tutorial at Crafts by Amanda.

32. Rustic Christmas Santa Mailbox– It’s so beautiful, I’m tempted to use this mailbox from TeeDiddlyDee all year long! Would that be weird?

33. Santa Stop Here Sign– Put your worried child’s mind at ease with this sign from Jaime Costiglio. There’s no way Santa’s missing this house!

34. Santa Cam Ornament– I know my kids will definitely be checking for real footage from A Little Moore‘s ornament!

35. Santa Salt Dough Handprint Ornament– Messy Little Monster‘s Santa craft is both a keepsake and an ornament rolled into one!

36. Santa Claus Wall Hanging– Brighten up the room with this cute decoration from Always the Holidays.

37. Clay Pot Santa– This simple decoration from Craft Ideas is so well disguised, I didn’t even realize they were clay pots!

38. Foam Santa Face– This decorationf from A Girl and A Glue Gun is not only beautiful, but it’s actually pretty easy to make.

O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!

39. Shadowbox Nativity Scene– Make this gorgeous nativity at Tracy Lynn Crafts.

40. Easy Burlap Angel Ornament– Burlap always adds such a nice, homey touch, don’t ya think? Learn to make these cute angels at Gym Craft Laundry.

41. Nativity Blocks with Tree Shelf– I’ve always loved the hands-on nativities that children can touch and feel. I think it really brings the true meaning of Christmas to life. Make It & Love It‘s block nativity fits the bill perfectly!

42. Peg Doll Nativity– Laura Radniecki‘s nativity set is full of sweet simplicity.

43. “Joy to the World” Wood Sign– Joy to the World   is one of my favorite Christmas songs. Hazel + Gold Designs‘s sign is a pefect way to share its message!

44. Silhouette Nativity– Recreate that sacred night for all to see with Life Should Cost Less‘s nativity.

45. Adore Him Ornament– Renovated Faith ‘s ornament is a perfect little reminder of the Reason for the season!

46. Tiny Star Wall Hanging– One thing I love about Delineate Your Dwelling‘s decoration is that you can use it for Christmas, or your can keep it up year round!

47. Nativity Painting– If you’ve ever wanted to paint your very own masterpiece, check out Melissa Lewis Art‘s nativity tutorial!

48. 3D Paper Star– Wow your guests with Gathering Beauty ‘s stars!

49. Nativity Stocking Hangers– A nativity that also doubles as stocking holders. What a great idea! Find it at My Love 2 Create.

50. O Holy Night Sign– Learn how to create this simple, rustic sign at The Idea Room.

51. Nativity Paper Lantern– Create a cozy glow with Designs By Miss Mandee‘s lanterns.

52. Printable Nativity Banner– That’s right! A printable nativity! It doesn’t get easier than that! Go to Paper Trail Design to find it.

53. Nativity Story Stones– Your kids will love helping you create this nativity from Rainy Day Mum.

54. “Wise Men Still Seek Him” Gold Foil Print– I love this Christmas reminder from Kristen Duke Photography .

55. Mid-Century Heirloom Nativity– Isn’t this nativity gorgeous?! A classic that can be used for generations! Learn how to make it at The House that Lars Built.

56. No Sew Felt Nativity Finger Puppets– These puppets from Everyday Jenny are perfect for little hands to play with!

57. Rustic Light-Up Christmas Sign– This sign from The American Patriette is the perfect way to light the holidays!

There are so many things you can do with mason jars, especially at Christmas time! Yeah, I know. I couldn’t think of any Christmas jingles about mason jars…. 

58. Snowy Mason Jars– These jars from A Pumpkin and A Princess cast a cheery glow, perfect for snowy, cold days.

59. Christmas Sweater Mason Jars– Nothing quite as cheery as a Christmas sweater and some hot cocoa. Get the Christmas sweater vibes with It All Started with Paint‘s mason jars.

60. Christmas Tree Cut Out Mason Jars– These mason jars from Mason Jar Crafts Love will make the perfect addition to any fireplace mantel.

61. Elf Jar Craft– These cute treat jars from Food, Crafts, and Family make a fun gift or decoration.

62. Stenciled Mason Jar Candle Holder– Spread the “joy” with these fun jars from Soapbox Creations.

63. Holiday Luminaria– The soft glow from The Budget Decorator‘s luminaries create a cozy, warm atmosphere.

64. Magical Christmas Lanterns– Adventure in a Box‘s mason jars are filled with Christmas magic!

65. DIY Anthropologie Mason Jar Snow Globes– Create your own winter wonderland with Simple Craves & Olive Oil‘s snow globes.

66. Mason Jar Lid Ornaments– Mason jars are so wonderful, even their lids make beautiful decorations, like these ornaments from Clean and Scentsible!

67. Quick and Easy Snowy Mason Jar– Create a rustic atmosphere with Homestead Acres‘s homey jars.

68. Buffalo Check Mason Jars– Can we all vote to make red and black buffalo check a year round thing? Find these jars at Fresh Vintage by Lisa S.

There are so many beautiful ideas for wreaths, I wish I could make them all!

69. DIY Deco Mesh Tree Wreath– DIY Cuteness‘s wreath is the perfect festive addition to your door.

70. Candy Cane Wreath– What would Christmas be without peppermint and candy canes? Check out this sweet wreath at Big Bear’s Wife!

71. Floral Winter Wreath– Brighten up winter with The Wreath Depot‘s floral wreath.

72. Elf with Striped Hat & Legs Wreath– Greet guests with this cheery wreath from Trendy Tree.

73. Christmas DIY Wreath–  This wreath from Home Talk is filled to the brim with jolly Christmas colors!

74. Winter Wonderland Wreath– Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but this wreath from Yarn Over and Bake is sure delightful!

75. Candy Cane Wreath– That’s right, we have not one, but two candy cane wreaths! This one from Craft Outlet is shaped like a giant candy cane.

76. Winter Mesh Wreath– Just looking at this wreath from Darice makes me want to sit by a fire with some hot cocoa!

77. Burlap & Mesh Poinsettia Wreath– One thing I love about Shambray‘s poinsettia wreath is that you can do the same thing with different colors to make a sunflower wreath in the summer. How cute is that?

78. Winter Pom-Pom Wreath DIY– Modern Glam‘s wreath looks like it’s covered in snowballs. Warm, fluffy snowballs…. if only that were a thing….

79. Christmas Ornament Wreath– Christmas ornaments are not only wonderful on the tree, but also in other decor, like Crazy Little Projects‘s wreath!

80. “Let It Snow” Christmas Wreath– If you’re ready for snow, you’ll love The Happy Housie‘s wreath!

81. Pinecone Wreath– One of the best parts about winter decorating is definitely the pinecones! Find this beauty at Remodelaholic.

82. Easy Christmas Rag Wreath– Who knew cute wreaths could be so easy? Learn how to make this one at Vintage Paint and More.

83. Grinchy Wreath– If you love this classic Christmas story, you’ll love this wreath from Country Mom Party Goddess.

84. Poinsettia Wreath– The red flowers on the white make the colors pop on Scratch & Scritch‘s elegant wreath.

85. Ornament Wreath– Teaspoon of Nose‘s ornament wreath is bursting with festive ornaments!

86. Christmas Swag Wreath– I never knew what a swag wreath was until I saw Fynes Designs‘s. Pretty and simple.

87. Christmas Buffalo Check Hoop Wreath– I love how unique and different Domestically Creative‘s hoop wreath is.

88. Fresh Evergreen Wreath– Bring the winter forest home with An Extraordinary Day‘s evergreen wreath.

89. Rustic Wreath– Is it weird that I want to snuggle with this wreath from Little Yellow Wheelbarrow?

90. Burlap Christmas Wreath– What is it about burlap that makes it such a wonderful decoration? I mean, how cute is this wreath from What’s Ur Home Story? It’s the burlap. It is the answer to everything.

91. Grapevine Ornament Wreath– We love the colors that Mommy Suite uses in this ornament wreath.

92. Dollar Store Snowflake Door Hanger– That’s right! This door hanger from Staying Home Sawyer is made from dollar store items. Cute and thrifty!

93. Grinch Wreath– Which Grinch movie was your favorite? I have to admit, the newest animated one from Illumination was pretty good. My kids loved it anyway. They loved it so much, in fact, they would go crazy over this wreath from Leap of Faith Crafting.

94. Buffalo Plaid Wreath– That’s right. More buffalo check. You can never have enough buffalo check! Especially when you can make cute wreaths like this one from This Is Our Bliss!

95. Snowman Wreath– Make your own Frosty the Snowman with Southern Charm Wreaths‘s tutorial.

96. Winter Snowball Wreath– Don’t worry! These snowballs from Addicted 2 Decorating won’t melt away!

97. Winter Loop Yarn– You will not believe how easy it is to make this elegant wreath from The Navage Patch.

98. Tulle Snowman Wreath– 365 Fun‘s snowman is a perfect project for a cold winter day.

99. Holly Berry DIY Ribbon Christmas Wreath– This berry wreath from Polkadot Chair has me feeling merry and bright!

100. Christmas Ribbon Wreath– This simple tutorial from Shelterness makes a beautiful wreath!

101. Drop Cloth Wreath– This wreath from Thistle Wood Farms is elegant and only requires a few items to make!

The post 101 Gorgeous DIY Christmas Decorations appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

1. Disney Silhouette Gallery – How cool and cute is this craft? Not only is it a cute and easy way to brighten up a wall in your home, it’s soooo simple to make!
2. Stacked Teacup Lamp – Looks fancy and fragile, but really, it’s a snap to make this adorable, unique lamp! No need to worry about finding a full set of matching china, this lamp shines with different patterns and sizes!
3. Mickey Mouse Fall Wreath – There’s no reason that Disney fun should be limited to a certain time of year, or even just to the inside of your house. This beautiful wreath could easily be adapted for winter, spring and summer!
4. Disney Parks Guide Map Coasters – Be reminded of the magic every time you take a sip! These fun, adorable coasters are a great way to re-purpose and preserve your parks map!
5. Disney Princess Quiet Book – A sweet, creative way to keep your little one entertained without causing a racket! This quiet book requires some dedicated time, but it’s totally worth it!
6. Mickey Embellished Tote Bag – A craft for grownups! Look cute and classy with this sassy tote that only just hints at your Disney obsession!
7. Disney Fabric Headbands – Another cute, simple and subtle way to showcase your Disney obsession. Anything is possible if you’ve got some extra fabric!
8. Mickey & Minnie Pillows – Seriously, how charming are these pillows?? I just want to snuggle up with one of these while I watch my favorite Disney movie.
9. Alice in Wonderland Card Soldiers – These are so fun! Whether you’re throwing an Alice in Wonderland themed party or just looking for something to do on a rainy day, these are sure to be a hit!
10. Inside Out Emotions Discovery Bottles – Inside Out has been an amazing  film because it’s helped a lot of kids learn to identify and communicate how they are feeling. These discovery bottles would be great for toddlers or young children! Or really anyone, they’re so fun!
11. Tissue Tube Seven Dwarfs – These are so delightful! And super easy too! Your kids will love playing with these!
12. Disney Pixar’s Up Thumbprint Crafts – Up is definitely one of my favorite movies of all time. This is such a fun, creative craft that your kids can play a major part of!
13. Magical Disneyland Fireworks – Bet you didn’t know what this was going to entail! This is an enjoyable way to enjoy the magic of Disney after dark in the comfort of your own home!
14. Up Adventure Book – Keep all of your adventures in one place, Disney related or not, with this adorable scrapbook! Seriously, who didn’t shed tears when Carl learned that he was Ellie’s greatest adventure??
15. Clothespin Princess Dolls – An inexpensive way to spark your child’s imagination! These dolls are not only lovely, they’re effortless to make!
16. DIY Mickey Mouse Ears – No Disney fan is complete without their own personalized ears! This blogger decorated her ears four different ways–how would you decorate yours?
17. Disney Fund Craft – If all of this Disney crafting has given you a hankering to go to the park itself, never fear–get closer to that goal everyday with this super cute jar to save your spare change in!

The post 17 Crafts For The Disney Fanatic! appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

I have been obsessed with all things pineapple lately. My favorite fruit has been popping up in lots of crafts and home decor projects.

Aren’t these etched pineapple water goblets adorable?

Especially when you add some pineapple juice ice cubes to them. (I got my pineapple ice cube trays from World Market, FYI.)

I have done several etched glass projects, and it’s a great way to get a high-end look for not much money. And etching glass is easier than you think, too, especially with some of the new formulations of low-odor etching creams available.

I used DecoArt’s resuable Easy Etch cream for this project, but any glass etching product will work. Just be sure to check the manufacturer’s directions to know how long to leave the product on the glass. The water goblets are from the dollar store, but you could do this project on any kind of clear drinking glasses.

I found a pineapple stencil I liked from Smirking Goddess. I used my Silhouette Cameo to cut a stencil from vinyl.

After weeding the design from the vinyl, I used my transfer paper to apply the stencil to the goblets. Be sure the glasses are clean and smudge-free. I usually wipe them down with rubbing alcohol and allow to air dry.

Since the glass is not flat, the stencil will wrinkle some, and that’s OK. Just make sure that you press firmly all over the design, so that etching cream doesn’t seep under the stencil and ruin the design. Use a clean cloth, not your fingers, to press the stencil so you don’t get fingerprints or oil on the glass.

While wearing gloves, use a plastic knife apply a thick coat of Easy Etch cream to the glass.

Allow the etching cream to sit on the glass for 15 minutes. If you’re using Easy Etch, after 15 minutes, use the plastic knife to scrape the etching cream off the glass and return it to the jar. Then rinse under cold water until completely removed, and remove the stencil. (For other etching creams, you just wipe and rinse away the excess.)

These are going to be so fun to use for a tropical luncheon or beach-themed party. And I have the perfect healthy, fruity drink to serve in them: homemade Hawaiian POG juice.

And don’t think you have to just use pineapples for your design. You can etch all kinds of fun images and personalizations onto glassware using this technique.

If you enjoyed this craft, check out these other projects:

Hawaiian POG Juice

Sand Dollar Soap

Frozen Frosted Lemonade

The post DIY Etched Pineapple Glasses appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

We have a weekly preschool co-op that meets together for fun activities like crafts, Bible stories, movement and motion games, and learning letters. We are just about to wrap up our year before taking a break over the summer and I wanted to do something that would tie into Mother’s Day as well as reinforce the concepts we’ve been practicing.

Tape Resist Letter Art

Supplies

• craft paint
• paint brush
• card stock
• painter’s tape
• ready and willing 4 year old

Step 1– Peel off strips of tape to use to build whatever letter you are working on. Charlie has been working on his letters for a while, so I just gave him the strips and he put them in the right place. If you are working with younger kids, it might be helpful to draw thin pencil lines on the paper to act as a guide for placing the tape properly.

Step 2– Make sure the tape is pressed down tightly onto the paper and then paint right over the top of it! The results are the most dramatic if you fill up every bit of empty space, so color all the way to the edges. We went with basic color blocking with bold “boy” colors that appealed to Charlie. You can use the same paint brush and just rinse it out between colors.

Step 3– After the paint dries, slowly and carefully peel away the tape to reveal the letter! This is a great fine motor skill to practice, too. Say it with Charlie…”M is for MOM!”

For more fun ideas for kids like this tape resist letter art, check out these posts on 365(ish) Days of Pinterest!

The post Tape Resist Letter Art appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

If you are lucky to have your grandchildren close enough so that they can stop by for a surprise visit, good for you! Two of my five grandchildren are close by.

However, in a few months, they will be moving to another state. Sigh. I love that I see them often and will miss them greatly.

In fact, I having been saving these 100 Paper Plate Crafts for when they got a little older. Now I will have to make some of these when I get to visit them. 

Above all, paper plates are a great thing to have on hand so that if you get a surprise visit from your grandkids, you can have an activity ready to go! Take a look at how cute these ideas are!

This is part one from the ideas list. Here’s a link to get to part 2 of Paper Plate Crafts for Kids (ideas 51 to 100).

Benefits of paper plate craft for grandkids

• improves social and emotional development
• creates long-lasting family memories
• improves fine-motor skills
• off-screen time
• fun time without electronics
• family bonding time

First, these paper plates are not just for picnics. You can do many creative things with them. Moreover, it is a way to improve your grandchildren’s social and emotional development. Create art projects and family moments that last.

Besides, it makes grandchildren use their hands to create, draw and glue. This way they focus, plan, make choices and learn how things work. After that, they show their project and feel proud of it.

Actually, learning how to cut with scissors and glue paper, fold and put together the pieces improves their fine motor skills. It is a beneficial skill for future writing, too.

Make your grandkids play with something else than electronics. In fact, they need to have off-screen time. Surely, these craft ideas are a way to have fun without toys and tablets.

Above all, the family spends time together, laugh, and learn. It strengthens the bond between them. As a matter of fact, these happy memories definitely will last for a long time!

The role of the grandparents

Most importantly, smile while your grandkids have fun, craft, and play. Parents shouldn’t fix every imperfection. Instead, help only with suggestions. The reason why, it is the process that matters most, not the outcome.

Encourage efforts and support grandchildren’s creativity, too. Moreover, connect with them, make it a bonding time, and have fun together.

Why not create a special art box? For example, put all the materials in there, and grandchildren will open it when they want to create a project and become crafty.

What do you need?

You don’t need expensive materials – for instance, use the items you have around at home. 

Provide:

• paper plates
• glue
• pieces of fabric
• paint
• crayons
• tape
• watercolors

Certainly, it is a simple craft that doesn’t require much of your time. Try these out!

 Paper plate craft ideas for kids

1. Vintage Swimmer Mask

This Vintage Swimmer Mask just makes me smile. What a perfect summer craft, indeed!

2. Paper Plate Insects

What kid doesn’t like bugs and butterflies? Actually, these paper plate insects will keep them buzzin’. 

3. Fall Paper Plate Wreaths

Make a wreath out of a paper plate. Moreover, you could also use spring and summer leaves. Certainly, so many great options by Mum in the Madhouse.

4. Paper Plate Tambourines

Have fun making music with these Paper Plate Tambourines.

5. Paper Plate Seahorse

A Paper Plate Seahorse would be great to make after reading Eric Carle’s Mister Seahorse book! Moreover, it is very easy to make!

6. Snow Globe Snowman Craft

Here we have a darling Snow Globe Snowman Paper Plate Craft. Besides, it includes glitter which I love!

7. Paper Plate Triceratops

If your grandkids love dinosaurs they will certainly want to make this Paper Plate Triceratops.

8. Paper Plate Leprechaun Mask

Leprechaun Paper Plate Mask will help you have a Lucky Day!

9. Butterfly Life Cycle Paper Plate Craft

It is an educational craft art idea that you should definitely make! Teach your grandkids about the circle of life with this Butterfly Life Cycle Paper Plate Craft.

10. Tissue Paper Valentine’s day Wreath

So easy to make! In fact, even a toddler can make this darling Tissue Paper Valentine’s Paper Plate Wreath.

11. Paper Plate Weaving

Paper Plate Weaving by Mum in the Madhouse is a fun technique for some of your older grandkids.

12. Owl Paper Plate

Who, Who wants to make an Owl Paper Plate?

13. Birds in a Nest Paper Plate Craft

Springtime would be the perfect time to make these Birds in a Nest Paper Plate Craft.

14. Paper Plate Crowns

Look at these! They are suitable for every occasion, indeed. In addition, let your grandkids choose from the many Paper Plate Crowns.

15. Paper Plate Clifford (The Big Red Dog)

Do your grandkids love Clifford The Big Red Dog?  Then they will love this paper plate craft.

16. Noah’s Ark Paper Plate Craft

As a matter of fact, there is plenty of room for two of each animal in this darling Noah’s Ark Paper Plate Craft by Artsy Craftsy Mom

17. Paper Plate Birds

These Paper Plate Birds have wings that move! How adorable, indeed!

18. Paper Plate Cow Masks

These Paper Plate Cow Masks make me think of Chik-Fil-A!  Eat Chikin.

19. Swan Paper Plate

Actually, the ugly duckling has turned into a beautiful Swan Paper Plate.

20. Thankful Spinner

Keep the grandkids busy at “their” Thanksgiving table with this Thankful Spinner.

21. Bear Mask

Grandkids will love pretending that they are a bear with this Bear Mask.

22. Paper Plate Blue Birds in a Nest

Spring is just the right time for these Paper Plate Blue Birds in a Nest.

23. Paper Plate Egyptian Necklaces

Looks so pretty! In addition, you can learn about some cultures with these Paper Plate Eqyptian Necklaces.

24. Paper Plate Badger

Little boys in particular will like making this Paper Plate Badger.

25. Bert and Ernie Paper Plates

I have great memories of my own grandkids watching Sesame Street and love these Bert and Ernie Paper Plates!

26. Painted Paper Plate Flowers

The watercolors look beautiful on these Painted Paper Plate Flowers.

27. The Gingerbread Man

These Gingerbread Paper Plate Crafts look almost good enough to eat! 

28. Paper Plate Dinosaur

A paper plate and some paint are all you need to make this Paper Plate Dinosaur.

29. Frog Paper Plate

The letter “F” stands for this cute Frog Paper Plate.

30. Hedgehog Paper Plate Craft

Actually, no paint is necessary. Super quick and easy is this Paper Plate Craft for a Hedgehog.

31. Paper Plate Fish

The scales on this Paper Plate Fish make it look so authentic! What is more, it is another great addition to the ocean theme papercrafts.

32. Paper Plate Sheep Mask

Mary Had a Little Lamb so she made a Paper Plate Sheep Mask! These look so pretty, indeed!

33. Groundhog Day Craft

Is Spring coming or will there be 6 more weeks of winter? This paper plate Groundhog Day Craft will help you find out!

34. Lamb and Lion Masks

Certainly, there will be lots of imaginative play with these Lamb and Lion Masks.

Paper plate animals craft ideas

35. Paper Plate Chicken

Read the story of the Little Red Hen and then made this super easy Paper Plate Chicken.

36. Paddington Bear Paper Plate Craft

Obviously, who doesn’t like teddy bears! Everyone loves Paddington Bear! Besides, it looks so easy to make!

37. Rhino Paper Plates

First, take your grandkids to the zoo and then come home and make these quick and easy Rhino Paper Plates.

38. Superman Paper Plate Mask

Kids LOVE to play superheroes but watch out, they might fight over who gets to wear this Superman Paper Plate Mask. As a matter of fact, you may consider drawing masks of other superheroes, too.

39. Paper Plate Flying Saucer

In my opinion, it would be fun to paint this Paper Plate Flying Saucer with glow-in-the-dark paint and then hang it from the ceiling. If your grandkids like space and aliens, this is surely a great choice for crafty art!

40. Skull Masks

To begin with, pass out paper plates and some markers and see all the different kinds of Skull Masks that will be created! Scary or funny – these skulls are a great way to spend your afternoon, indeed!

41. Paper Plate Fishes

Taken from the book The Rainbow Fish, these Paper Plate Fishes are so fun because of all the different colors. Surely, they will become your grandkid’s favorite! Besides, the rainbow fish looks very fancy!

42. Paper Plate Crabs

Going to the beach? Certainly, these Paper Plate Crabs want to come along! So cute!

43. Paper Plate Fox

As a matter of fact, every grandparent NEEDS to read Fox in Sox to their grandkids. Doesn’t that book bring back memories? Make this Paper Plate Fox in honor of that great classic book!

44. Sun Paper Plate Craft

Undoubtedly, you are my sunshine, my only sunshine! Surely, your grandkids will enjoy making this adorable sun.

45. Paper Plate Wolf

The better to see you with my dear! Actually, here’s a great Paper Plate Wolf to play Little Red Riding Hood with.

46. Rainbow Streamer Paper Plates

These Rainbow Streamer Paper Plates will cheer anyone up. What is more, these are great for unicorn theme birthdays! So, if you go with the magical horse theme, these will make a great addition\. Without a doubt, unicorns and rainbows go together!

47. Arctic Fox Paper Plate Craft

Have you heard the song “What does the fox say?”  To begin with, I have to say just love this little Arctic Fox Paper Plate Craft! Actually, it looks super cute!

 48. Paper Plate Jelly Fish

Just look what you can find under the sea. Besides, this Paper Plate Jelly Fish is great because it can’t sting you! In fact, you can make a whole ocean with their paper plate craft ideas. 

49. Paper Plate Tic Tac Toe Game

Obviously, grandkids are always so excited to stay in a hotel. So, what a great idea to keep them occupied and quieted down with this Paper Plate Tic Tac Toe Game.

50. Paper Plate Ladybug

In fact, I wouldn’t mind bugs if they were all as cute as this Paper Plate Ladybug! Really cute, indeed!

 The bottom line

In short, these art projects will keep your grandchildren busy. Not only developing their skills but also helping them to create exciting paper plate crafts. For instance, make foxes, skull masks, wolves, teddy bears, wreaths, and more.

Get your crafting skills to the next level furthermore spend time together with your grandkids.

Above all, have fun while bonding and making meaningful conversations. Express your thoughts, connect with your grandchildren, encourage effort and creativity.

Last but not least, it is a great way to create long-lasting memories with these super quick and easy crafts that everyone will love!

Did you like our ideas for paper plate crafts? You might want to jump into the second part where you will find paper plate craft ideas 51-100 click HERE

Did you like these easy paper plate craft ideas for grandkids? Then, you need to check out these posts:

• 19 kid-friendly fall crafts
• 17 craft for the Disney fanatic!
• 15 egg carton crafts
• Egg carton crafts – funny monsters
• Sparkle spider Halloween craft

The post 100 Paper Plate Crafts for Kids appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

According to the stores around here, Valentine’s Day preparations began on December 26th. Now that we are within a reasonable distance of this next holiday, the grocery stores have moved on to Easter and feel the need to tempt me with Cadbury Creme Eggs at the checkout counter already. It’s a little annoying, yes, but it also means that they are already marking down candy to clear the shelves. I saw a cute candy tree on Amanda Jane Brown and was inspired to do something similar for Valentine’s Day this year. You could do this project with a variety of candies, but I opted for candy hearts because they are colorful, cheap and they taste awful so no one in my family actually wants to eat them. So gather up a few supplies for your Candy Heart Wreath, warm up your hot glue gun and get to work!

Candy Heart Wreath

What you’ll need:

• Heart-shaped foam form
• Candy hearts
• Hot glue gun and several sticks (if you’re using a mini gun)
• Ribbon

What to do:

1. Add a drop of hot glue to the back of a candy heart and press it gently onto the foam wreath.
2. Continue FOREVER until you’ve covered the front of the wreath completely.

As you can see, there’s not much to it, but it feels a bit time-consuming while you’re in the middle of the process. To be completely honest, I spent less than 20 minutes putting it together. I did not place any hearts on the back. I just covered the front as much as possible, cramming the hearts together tightly in little rows. This helps them stay on, too. When you are finished, loop a piece of sparkly ribbon through the heart, tie it off and hang on the door or wall!

Honestly, I HATE glitter. I call it Devil’s Dust. It gets everywhere and you find yourself picking it off of your clothing for weeks after using just a tablespoon of it. But, I just couldn’t resist this ribbon. It was so pretty. That’s the danger of shopping at a craft store, I’m warning you!

Just a couple of notes:

1. If you live somewhere with inclement weather during the winter (snow, rain, general misery…) then I wouldn’t suggest hanging your Candy Heart Wreath on your front door. I don’t know how well the candy would hold up to a lot of moisture, even if they are hard as rocks. Our front door is covered by a hideous “security screen” that I hate, so there’s no point in hanging anything there that’s pretty. I actually hung my wreath up on the wall just inside the door. It would also be pretty over the mantel!
2. If you bang into this, a heart here or there may fall off. Just add another dab of glue and squeeze it back into its place. This is another reason I opted to keep mine off the front door. It’s been hanging on the wall for over a week with no problems whatsoever, but I know it would not survive my boisterous door slammers and their equally boisterous neighborhood friends.

So, what do you think? Cute, right? See, I told you we need to be friends. I’d love it if you came over for a visit to check out some of my other fun stuff!

Valentine’s Day Graham Cracker Crunch

Monster Cookie Milkshakes

The post Candy Heart Wreath appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

52. Throw some shrimp on the barbie, eh mate. (said in my best austrialian accent)  Paper Plate Koala by I Heart Crafty Things

53. It’s not easy being green.  Unless you’re the Hulk!  Hulk Paper Plate by Crafts on Sea.

54. Look how cute the tusks are on the Paper Plate Walrus by Danielle’s Place.

55. My three grandsons are going to love making these Car Paper Plates by Glued to my Crafts Blog.

56. Start your own zoo with these Zoo Animal Paper Plates by First Palette

57. I know the instructions say Groundhog but I think it could easily also pass for a Beaver!  By Crafty Morning.

58. I remember gluing pasta on construction paper when I was little but it didn’t look as good as this Paper Plate Lion by Mrs. Karens Class!

59. All kids will love playing Ring Toss after they’ve painted their own color plate. From ABC to ACTS.

60. Such a cute Christmas Tree Paper Plate complete with ornaments!

61. I love how a kids hand print is the fin on this Paper Plate Fish by This Girls Life Blog

62. These Summer Fruit Paper Plates by All Free Kids Crafts looks so refreshing! The watermelon is my favorite.

63. This Nature Island Paper Plates combines with some homemade dough. Great idea from The Pinterested Parent.

64. Boys especially will love creating this “Taper Plate” Chain.  Make sure you have lots of duct tape on hand!  From Craft Crossing

65. This makes me think of the submarine ride at Disneyland.  Darling Porthole Paper Plate  by Crafts by Amanda

66. Little girls will especially love to make these Fourth of July Purse Paper Plates by Handmade Charlotte!

67. This skeleton is made completely from paper plates. No bones about it!  Free Pattern by The 36th Ave.

68. Who remembers old fashioned bubble gum machines? Create your own with a paper plate?  By I Heart Crafty Things.

69. What a fun idea to use bubble wrap in creating this Paper Plate Snake by Crafty Morning

70. The early bird gets the worm with this darling Paper Plate Apple by I Heart Crafty Things.

71. Bake cookies, then have your kids make these cute baskets and deliver to someone who could use a happy visit.  I think I would decorate the plates first before cutting to make them ever cuter! Idea by It’s Always Autumn

72. Thar she blows!  Fun Paper Plate Whale by FunCraftsKids

73. You are guaranteed to have sweet dreams with this Dream Catcher Paper Plate by Red Ted Art.

74. My grandkids are crazy about the Minions and would love to make this Paper Plate Minion by Here Comes the Girls!

Beedo! Beedo! Beedo!

75. I love the colors on these Halloween Paper Plate Spiders by Crafty Morning

76. Make a pink or a red bow and all kids will love these Minnie/Mickey ears!  Free pattern by Chickabug

77. Use some imagination in creating these Paper Plate Dragons by Pink Stripey Socks and then read Dragons Love Tacos.

78. How great is this?  Marble Paper Plate Track by Frugal Fun 4 Boys.

79. My son loves anything Captain America.  And he’s 27.  Younger boys love him too and will love this Captain America Paper Plate Shield by Crafts on Sea.

80. Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming. Paper Plate Aquarium by Director Jewels

81. Teach little ones to tell time with this Paper Plate Clock by Frugal Fun 4 Boys.

82. Darling Christmas Paper Plate Crafts by One Little Project

83. Did your kids like the movie Big Hero 6?  Then they will love making this BayMax Paper Plate Craft by ET Speaks from Home

84. We love Star Wars in our family and need a BB-8 of our very own.  Idea from Frugal and Fun Mom.

85. Start your own band with this Paper Plate Banjo by Parents.com!

86. Wow. How easy is this to make a Paper Plate Sundial? By PreSchool Craft

87. I love how the pebbles make the shell of this Turtle Plate by Busy Bee Kids Crafts.

88. Holy Moly! A Magnet Maze?  This is so cool.  By My Cakies

89. A Water Wheel is the perfect summer paper plate craft by Making Boys Men

90. Boys will run around and race for hours after making these Paper Plate Steering Wheels by Banana Blueberry

91. Who’s up for a game of Balloon Paddle Ball?  By Vanessa’s Values

92. You can feel all sorts of things with this Paper Plate Sensory Heart by Paging Fun Mums

93. Super easy Thanksgiving Turkey by Housing a Forest

94. I’m embarrassed to say how much I love candy corn. Even these by Blitsy.com

95. These apples are sweet to the core!  Inspiration by BJ’s Solutions

96. These spiders make counting fun with this Paper Plate Counting Game.

Comes with a free printable from The Printable Princess

97. This craft also develops small motor skills with the lacing that kids will love doing.  Apple Plate by Kid Things

98. Love this Yoda Puppet you will.  Idea by Coffee Cups and Crayons

99. You use shaving cream to get this cool marbled look on these paper plates.  Inspiration from Crafty Morning

100. I love the little alien atop this darling spaceship by Craftulate

For paper plate ideas 1-50, click HERE

The post Paper Plate Crafts appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Moon sand has made a huge come back. Or at least that is what my mom says. She remembers it from the first time around. But it’s not exactly cheap. I would have a hard time letting Thor play with it, knowing that he still gets things like that everywhere. Luckily there are a ton of DIY recipes on Pinterest so that your littles can get their play on.

This was something great to have in the house over the holiday break. While the baby was napping this kept the toddler quiet and entertained without the use of TV. Win!

I looked at Pinterest and found a pin from Happy Mothering. I then went to Target and bought a big 32 quart bin to make a double batch in. I chose that one because the lid clips on. I wanted it to be good and secure when it was being stored. I wanted it to be big enough for there to be room to play in without making too much of a mess. Turns out I probably should have bought a bigger bin. As it was moon sand was everywhere. Luckily it is very easy to sweep up.

When we came home I put ingredients in. For a single of moon sand batch you will need:

8 cups of flour
1 cup of baby oil
A couple drops of lavender essential oil (optional)

I just filled the bin with flour, added the essential oil to the baby oil and poured the oil over top. Then we mixed it all together with our hands. It didn’t take too long to get it all mixed. Maybe five minutes.  Now it was time to play. I was hoping the lavender would entice Thor to nap after playing. It didn’t, but it did make the whole thing smell lovely.

I gave him a scoop, measuring cup, silicone baking cup, a lollipop stick, and a plastic kids cup. He had a lot of fun for a few minutes. Then he stared grabbing toys to add when I wasn’t looking. The dinosaur wasn’t bad, but the car, not a good idea. Haha. So definitely keep an eye on that. I had to wash a whole sink full of toys that weren’t supposed to be used in the moon sand.

Over all it was a win. I even enjoyed playing with it. I couldn’t believe how soft it was. It will probably get everywhere, so just keep the play on a surface that is easy to sweep. And probably keep the dogs away. Mine was trying to eat it as it fell out of the bin.

Want more kids activity ideas? Check out these posts.

Lego Minifigure Matching Game

Rainbow Rice

Velcro Sticks

If you are looking for more ideas for kids be sure to follow me and check out similar posts on my blog.

Pinterest  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Google+  |  Instagram

The post Homemade Moon Sand Recipe appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

1. This Popsicle Stick Pilgrim by Crafty Morning is easy so most kids can do it.                                                                     
2. These Paper Hats and Bonnets from Apartment Therapy are perfect for Thanksgiving dress-up.                                         
3. These Clay Pot Pilgrims from Child Made Tutorials don’t hold plants but they are adorable.                                                  
4. Napkin Rings from Crafts by Amanda that are fun for the kids and a nice touch to the table.                                                 
5. These Pilgrim Hat Crayon Cups from Lil Luna won’t just sit around, they’re useful.                                                                 
6. These DIY Quills by Around the Kampfire are a cute way to make writing more fun.                                                                              
7. Thanksgiving Pilgrim Hat Cookies by Oh So Savvy Mom are fun to make together and eat together.                                      
8. Personal Pilgrim Placecards by Gracious Rain are such a cute way to have all the kids know where to sit.
9. It’s a great time for your kids to Make a Mayflower by Raising Arizona Kids and get into the spirit of Thanksgiving. 
10. Paper Tube Pilgrims by Creative Me Inspired You are a great way to recycle!                           
11. Paper Plate Pilgrims by Pop Sugar are a classic.                                                                                                                
12. These Pilgrim Head Band Hats by Alpha Mom are the easiest version of hats I have seen.                                               
13. Thanksgiving Pilgrim and Indian bags by Easy Preschool Crafts can get stuffed with fun treats once they are complete. 

The post Thanksgiving Pilgrim Crafts appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

These photo transfer ornaments were inspired by this pin from Landeelu.com. I totally love her iconic looking sledding down the hill and bundled up pictures on her ornaments, but decided these would work wonderfully as place cards with the added bonus of being little souvenirs from the day.

Materials:

• Wooden ornaments
• White craft paint
• Matte gel Medium
• Laser printed images
• Printable tags
• Ribbon

Word to the wise before you start on this project–the photo transfer absolutely won’t happen unless you use an image from a laser printer. I shot mine over to the office supply store to run them off, but a photocopy machine that uses toner will work just as well.

Step 1: Paint the ornaments. Put a coat (or two) of white paint over the entire ornament. Be sure to do the back so the ornaments have nice polish. To make them a little shabby, you can take sandpaper to the edges.

Step 2: Cut the pictures to the size of your ornament. I placed the picture over my ornaments and then ran my finger around the edge to mark the size of the ornament. When the paper is flipped over, you can easily see the cutting lines!

Step 3: Apply matte gel to the front of the image.

Step 4: Apply the image to the wood. Flip the image over and place on the wooden ornament. Use a credit card or something similar to flatten the paper to the surface, remove any bubbles or wrinkles, and get rid of any excess gel medium. Now’s the hard part. You’re going to have to wait at least 8 hours for the medium to completely do its magic.

Step 5: If your patience hasn’t gotten the best of you, you can start removing the paper from the ornament. Landeelou suggested lightly misting the image to rub it off, but frankly, that took too long. I saw another blogger who just ran the paper under the faucet while gently rubbing circles and it came off really easy that way. You will have to repeat this process several times, as all the paper won’t come off in a single shot.

I like the look of this half- painted ornament…it was a happy accident. While I’d love to tell you that it was completely intentional, really, I painted half for a picture, the ADD kicked in and I forgot the rest. What I did find out from this little experiment is that the photo transfer onto the unpainted wood will rub off at a much higher rate than on the painted portion. I love the chippy worn look, but you do want a bit of the photo to stay in place!

If you just love your ornaments just they way they are, you can stop right there! I made them into place cards with two extra additions. I wrote the name of the person next to the photo, and I added one of the free printable ribbon tags to the top before I tied the ornament to the napkin ring.

Thanks again to MFP for asking me to be a regular contributor! I’d love it if you’d stop on by Frog Prince Paperie for party inspiration, and maybe find some tutorials and recipes for a few other holidays, too! You can also find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and Google+.

A FEW OF MY MOST POPULAR THANKSGIVING POSTS:

Thanksgiving Tree of Thanks free printable

We are So Thankful Family Tablescape

Chic Chair Tie Backs with Fabric Rosettes

The post Photo Transfer Ornament Name Cards for the Holidays appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

As an adult, we’ve had some experiences with fire and the 4th of July (can you tell there’s a story there?) so we’ve slowed down a little with our patriotic festivities, but the 4th of July was a holiday that I always looked forward to when I was growing up. My family had a boat and if you want to hear a funny story about our family boat, check out my sister’s Sherri’s post here!

Anyway, our family would always take our boat out to Catalina Island off the Southern California coast for the 4th of July weekend. But before we left, our Dad would buy the boxes of Black Cat or Red Devil fireworks. After we got there and the sun went down, we could hardly wait for it to be dark enough for fireworks! Dad had a long plank of wood that he would nail the fireworks onto one end, then he would light it and then quickly push the plank out so that the fireworks would go off over the water but far enough away from our boat. He then would pull the plank back in, get another firework ready, light it and then push it out again. It was the best fun ever.

My love of holidays has not faded through the years and it has been so much fun to celebrate holidays now that I have grandchildren! A couple of weeks ago I got to visit my two grandsons and was excited to make these 4th of July Kids Tee Shirts with them. This would be a darling idea for the whole family to make and wear on the 4th of July!

The paint that we used for these tee shirts were Americana Acrylic Paints in Primary Red and True Blue.

Pouring the True Blue paint out on a paper plate, place your child’s hand in the paint. Make sure each and every finger gets paint on it!

Then try to spread their fingers out as much as you can and place their hand on the tee shirt, pressing down each finger firmly. Little brother is a little over one year old and it was a challenge to get him to spread his fingers out!

And now it’s Big Brothers turn!

Then with the Primary Red color, paint the flag stripes around the blue hand print. I love the the roughness of the lines that Big Brother painted!

Now they are both ready for the 4th of July!

Oh, and do you see the little star on Little Brother’s shirt?

Yeah, Big Brother decided that Little Brother needed a little help and helped him out in the form of a blue fingerprint on his tee shirt! So we just made a star out of it and think it looks just fine! Besides what’s more American than a star?

No matter where or how you do your fireworks, your family will be ready in these super easy and fun 4th of July Tee Shirts!

I did pin this from Pinterest but it didn’t have a link to follow through to the original post.

***UPDATE 6/30/14***

A dear friend of mine made these tee shirts with all of her grandkids. Look how cute these turned out! I love how different each one is and the bright colors just really stand out!

The post DIY 4th of July Kids Tee Shirts appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

See what I did there? Hit? Baseball?

I just love a good play on words!

This tutorial references a lot of things I love — mason jars, painting, paper crafts, Pinterest and my husband, who is a big Atlanta Braves baseball fan.

One night, I was scrolling through Pinterest, and I spotted the cutest painted mason jar from my friend Linda of It All Started with Paint and Mason Jar Crafts Love. Linda lives in the Chicago area, so she’d painted a mason jar to look like a Cubs jersey. I used her tutorial to make my Braves version of a mason jar jersey.

I started out by painting a clear glass mason jar with several coats of white paint. I like to use chalk paint because it gives the best coverage.

On an Atlanta Braves jersey, the team name is written across the players’ chests, with a tomahawk below it. The letters are red, outlined in blue. There’s also red and blue pinstriping along the placket of the jersey.

Rather than trying to paint “Braves” on the jar’s bumpy surface, I decided to just outline the raised “Ball” logo in red paint. My jar might not say “Braves” on it, but it definitely mimics the look of the team’s jersey. especially with the red striping.

Next, I used a fine point paint brush to outline the lettering and pinstriping in blue. It helps to have a steady hand — or to have some white paint on hand for touchups!

Next, I used super glue to attach some tiny white buttons down the jersey’s placket.

I also made a paper baseball hat, using this tutorial from Childmade.

Rather than cutting out the hat by hand, I used my Silhouette cutting machine. I also used my Silhouette to make the A on the cap. You can also use team stickers, as the original tutorial did.

I’m really loving how this painted mason jar turned out. It would make the cutest gift for a baseball coach or player or a Braves fan. You could surprise someone by hiding tickets inside the jar!

You know, the World Series is coming up soon and so is my husband’s birthday. Nah, not happening. But it’s a nice thought.

So, what’s your favorite Major League baseball team? I’d love to see a mason jar version of every professional team’s jersey!

I’ll hope you’ll stop by Atta Girl Says for a visit. You never know what I’ll be up to! I’d love to have you join me on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Here are a few crafty things I’ve been working on lately.

Black-and-White Painted Buffet

Harvest Inspired Fall Table Decorations

DIY Minecraft School Supplies

The post Atlanta Braves Inspired Painted Mason Jar appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

This post is sponsored by Heidi Swapp.  All opinions are 100% mine.

Do you love red, white and blue?  I absolutely love decorating my house for a patriotic holiday.  We aren’t big fireworks people, (that’s a story for another day!) but I love seeing all the red, white and blue decorations for a patriotic holiday.

And with my Minc Foil Applicator from Heidi Swapp, it is easy to get big bold red, white and blue color for projects like this!   Look how stunning and rich these foil colors are.  I’m in love!

In order for the Foil Applicator to work, you just need to print anything you want (is that cool or what?) from a laser printer.  I don’t have one of those at home so I purchased these papers from Creative Market and took them to my local print shop to have them copied off on to some card stock.  Voila!  Super easy.  I then put them through the applicator to bond the foil to the paper.  (To learn how to use this machine, see directions HERE.)

Heidi’s Minc Foil Applicator can be found at Michael’s, JoAnn’s and also online.  Seriously.  Do you have a birthday coming up?  Then go and treat yourself to one of these machines.  You are even going to want to foil your toilet paper.   Ok maybe not.  But you are going to want to foil everything else!

To make this paper wreath you will need:

1. 12″ floral foam wreath.  I could only find a green one and I didn’t want any green showing through my red, white and blue papers, so I quickly spray-painted mine white.

2.  Elmer’s Craft Bond Spray Adhesive

3.  Card stock paper either printed and foiled or you can also use pre-printed papers.

4.  Scissors or a paper cutter

INSTRUCTIONS:  After foiling your paper, cut them into strips.  I cut mine about 1 1/2″ by 10 inches, but if you’d like longer strips, you can definitely cut them a little longer.

After cutting, spray both ends with the bonding spray and then wrap it around your wreath, lining up the edges together.

If one end is slightly wider than the other, make sure the wider end is on top so you don’t have any white from the back of the paper showing through.  Press to seal.

Continue on around your wreath until you are satisified with the coverage of the wreath.  Then you will want to cut a “v” shape into the ends:

That’s it!  Now you’re ready to hang this stunning wreath for the holidays.   (Prepare to receive compliments.)  Everyone ALWAYS wants to know how I foil my projects.  There are other ways, but this Minc machine is by far the easiest.

A big thanks to Ain’t She Crafty for the inspiration for this project.

Please have a safe 4th of July holiday with your family and friends as we celebrate our freedoms that our country blesses us with.   God Bless America.

Are you looking for some MORE red, white and blue for the holiday? Check these out!

4th of July Ice Cream Cones

4th of July Mason Jar Candles

Popsicle Stick Flag Craft

This awesome post has been shared with Home Stories A to Z

The post Patriotic Paper Wreath appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Have we got a great craft project for you today!  If you have girls that like to make things, then you are going to want to read this tutorial.   These are super easy to make, super cheap but also super cute!  When my girls were littler, I always loved having projects like these for them to make during the summer instead of just watching movies all day and they would have loved making these Fabric Bracelets.

This is a great project to be able to use  all of your scrap fabric.  And you won’t believe what you use for the “bracelet part”.   Plastic Shower Rings!  I know what you are saying…”Get out of Town!”  I know, right?!?!

Here is what you will need to get going on this fun project:

Plastic Shower Rings (I bought mine at the Dollar Tree for $1!)

Scrap Material ( I bought some fat quarters at WalMart for like 97 cents.)

Scissors

Wire cutters (not pictured)

Glue Gun (not pictured)

With  your wire cutters, cut off the “pokey” part of the shower ring.  If you have super small arms, you can leave this on and use it to close your bracelet.

With your scissors, cut your strips of fabric into 1/2 inch strips.  I cut mine from selvage to selvage and one strip covered one bracelet perfectly.

Taking your glue gun, glue the underside of one of the ends of the shower ring and attach a strip of fabric.

Put another drop of glue on the top side of the shower ring and pull your fabric strip around.

Now you want to start wrapping the fabric around the shower ring covering any white that you can see.  When you wrap, make sure you cover the edge of the last wrap so that the shower ring doesn’t show through. Wrap as tightly as you can.

When you are at the end, wrap the fabric strip over the end and tack on the inside of the shower ring with some glue so that none of the shower ring shows.

Cut off any remaining fabric.  Now you are ready to wear your masterpiece!

Tutorial inspiration from The 36th Avenue

We made these in red, white and blue for the upcoming 4th of July but they can be made in any colors and trust me…if you have daughters, they are going to want some in EVERY color.  And with how inexpensive these are to make, you can let them make these till their hearts content!

You can also find us on Pinterest │ Facebook │ Twitter │ Instagram │ StumbleUpon │ Hometalk

 This awesome post has been shared with Homestories A to Z and Whipperberry.

The post Fabric Bracelet Tutorial appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

2. Kids Firework Craft Using a Fork from Crafty Morning

3. 4th of July Strawberries

4. DIY Painted Flower Pot from Happy Healthy Hip Parenting

5. Patriotic Glitter Candles and Printable Tags from A Pumpkin and A Princess

6. Fourth of July Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting from Made From Pinterest

7. Blueberry Strawberry Jicama Salsa from Two Peas and Their Pod

8. Fourth of July Cake Pops from Passion for Savings

9. 4th of July Kids Tee Shirts from Made From Pinterest

10. M & M Red, White, and Blondies from Your Homebased Mom

11. Nautical 4th of July S’mores Bag Toppers Printables from Anders Ruff

12. DIY Patriotic Wreath from Made From Pinterest

13. DIY Patriotic Shoes from Pretty Providence

14. Snow Cone Cupcakes from Bakerella

15. Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches from Made From Pinterest

16. Fourth of July Fun and Games Station from Uncommon Designs

17. Berry Raspberry Icebox Cookies from The Cooking Photographer

18. Chocolate Dipped Oreos from Made From Pinterest

19. 4th of July Muffins from Barbara Bakes

20. 4th of July Snack Mix from Glorious Treats

21. Popsicle Stick Flag Craft from Made From Pinterest

22. Confetti Launchers from Piikea Street

23. No Bake Patriotic Marshmallow Cheesecake from Sweet as a Cookie

24. 4th of July Ice Cream Cones from Made From Pinterest

25. Patriotic Popcorn Lollipops from Simply Kierste

26. 13 FREE Patriotic Printables from Sugar Bee Crafts

27. 4th of July Firecracker Bananas from Made From Pinterest

28. Red, White & Blue Mason Jars from It all Started with Paint

29. Brownie and Berry Parfaits from Mandy’s Recipe Box

30. 4th of July Sparkler Cupcakes from Made From Pinterest

31. USA Fourth of July Decor from Mabey She Made It

32. 4th of July Free Printables from Kensie Kate

33. 4th of July Bandanna Tablecloth from Made from Pinterest

34. White Chocolate Bowls from Restless Chipotle

35. Firecracker Sugar Cookies from Mom Dot

36. Patriotic Jello Stars from Made from Pinterest

37. 4th of July Firecracker Dogs from Handmade in the Heartland

38. Red, White and Blue Cookie Bark from Your Homebased Mom

39. 4th of July Mason Jar Candles from Made from Pinterest

40. Funfetti Cheesecake Cookies from Something Swanky

41. Patriotic Kids S’mores from Passion for Savings

42. Layered Patriotic Drink from Made from Pinterest

43. Patriotic Popcorn from Crazy Little Projects

44. Star Spangled Desserts from Giggles Galore

45. Revolution Cookies from Made from Pinterest

46. Patriotic Breakfast from Holiday Helpings

47. Oreo Cheesecake Pops and Free Party Printables from Living Locurto

48. American Flag Cake from Made from Pinterest

49. Patriotic Cake Mix Jello Cookies from Tastes of Lizzy T’s

50. 4th of July Sparkler Holder Free Printable from Over the Big Moon

The post 50 Patriotic Red, White and Blue Food and Craft Projects appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

* We’re sharing our favorite links from last week’s party at the beginning of today’s party.  Check them out and then keep scrolling down for the link party.  Happy Weekend!

Thanks for participating in the Best Recipes and DIY Projects Party last week!  We’re thrilled to share some of our favorite links from last week’s link party with you.

With Easter fast approaching, we were delighted to find some quick and easy ideas for decorating.  Maybe this weekend, we’ll try making a bunny banner just for Spring!  Check out more cute ideas for Spring Bunny bunting from the link party, below, then link up your own projects and recipes!

Simple Easter Bunny Banner from Home. Made. Interest.

Bunny & Chick Easter Banner from The Happy Scraps

Pottery Barn Inspired Bunny Banner from Atta Girl Says

Pom Pom Bunny Tail Bunting from Bombshell Bling

Now, let’s get this party started!

 Happy Weekend, everyone! We’re delighted that you came to our party. The link-up is live and ready for you to share your recipes, DIY projects and crafts, just make sure you follow these guidelines:

1. When you link up, you are giving us permission to feature your project and pictures on our blogs and social media with a link back to you.
2. We’ll feature our favorite projects from this weekend’s party at the beginning of next week’s link party.
3. Weekly favorites will also be pinned to our Link Party Favorites Board on Pinterest!
4. Add a text link back to the host blog.
5. You can link up any post you’ve created during this past week.
6. We’re excited about your handmade items, but this link party is limited to blog posts only. Please don’t linkup your Etsy shop.
7. Share the love and comment on two or more of the other projects that are linked up. We all love comments!

This party starts every Friday at 5 P.M. MST, and keeps going until the following Tuesday evening. Feel free to invite others to join in the fun!

Thanks for participating! Your Hosts,

Ruthie from Cooking With Ruthie, Jeni from Bakerette, Mandy from Mandy’s Recipe Box, Dan and Chris from Live Dan 330, and Deb, Tracy, and Sherri from Made From Pinterest

The post Best Recipes and DIY Projects Link Party #89 appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

* We’re sharing our favorite links from last week’s party at the beginning of today’s party.  Check them out and then keep scrolling down for the link party.  Happy Weekend!

Thanks for participating in the Best Recipes and DIY Projects Party last week!  We’re thrilled to share some of our favorite links from last week’s link party with you.

Lots of great ideas for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day came through this week.  We’re as excited about the wearing o’ the green as anyone, so it was fun seeing all the different ideas for celebrating Ireland’s big day.  Check out our favorites below.

Pot of Gold Playdough from Krystal’s Kitsch

Luck Quote from Creating Really Awesome Free Things

Pot of Gold Shamrock Bouquet from Crafty Journal

St. Patrick’s Day Mason Jar from Mom’s Favorite Stuff

Lucky Soda Printable Label from Homemaking Hacks

Now, let’s get this party started!

 Happy Weekend, everyone! We’re delighted that you came to our party. The link-up is live and ready for you to share your recipes, DIY projects and crafts, just make sure you follow these guidelines:

1. When you link up, you are giving us permission to feature your project and pictures on our blogs and social media with a link back to you.
2. We’ll feature our favorite projects from this weekend’s party at the beginning of next week’s link party.
3. Weekly favorites will also be pinned to our Link Party Favorites Board on Pinterest!
4. Add a text link back to the host blog.
5. You can link up any post you’ve created during this past week.
6. We’re excited about your handmade items, but this link party is limited to blog posts only. Please don’t linkup your Etsy shop.
7. Share the love and comment on two or more of the other projects that are linked up. We all love comments!

This party starts every Friday at 5 P.M. MST, and keeps going until the following Tuesday evening. Feel free to invite others to join in the fun!

Thanks for participating! Your Hosts,

Ruthie from Cooking With Ruthie, Jeni from Bakerette, Mandy from Mandy’s Recipe Box, Dan and Chris from Live Dan 330, and Deb, Tracy, and Sherri from Made From Pinterest

The post Best Recipes & DIY Projects Link Party #86 appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

I’ve seen plenty of marbled things on Pinterest but the one that really peaked my interest was this phone case by The Merry Thought. All it takes is a little bit of nail polish and warm water! I wanted something that was a little bit more subtle and eclectic looking so I grabbed these $1 tumblers from Target for DIY marbled tumblers!

Supplies:

• A medium bowl of warm water
• nail polish in your color of choice
• a dry towel

I used the warm water and dropped several dots of my nail polish in the water. Some spread very thin and you’ll be able to see that on some of the finish product and some you’ll be able to wipe away. Create your desired marbled effect and then you’ll want to do a dip and roll action with the cup making sure that none of the water or polish gets on the inside.

Set it aside and let it dry for about 5 minutes. You’ll still have some wet polish but the grosser stuff you’ll be able to wipe away. You’ll want to blot it rather than full on wipe it so that you don’t smear the larger spots. I did wash these in the dishwasher to see how they would hold up…not great. The glitter and the lighter polish all but washed away. The only parts that stuck were the darker blotches so if you’re wanting a really sturdy marble, go heavy. I do however love the look.

Make sure you stop by my blog for more inspiration and follow me on social media!

XOXO, Lindsay
Facebook . Instagram . Pinterest . Twitter

 This amazing post has been shared with Living Well Spending Less and Whipperberry.

The post DIY Marbled Tumblers appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

XOXO, Lindsay

Make sure you check out some of my other projects too!

This great post has been shared with Living Well Spending Less and Whipperberry.

The post Kitten Ear Barrettes appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

I suggest you begin by looking through their online seasonal catalog to take advantage of the 30% off coupons. The only thing I love more than shopping online is saving money online. Their prices are very reasonable, and the additional 30% off make the savings to good to pass up!

I can’t believe how many craft supplies are available on their website! You can find scrapbooking, kids, art, storage, decor, floral seasonal, bridal, party and more! Shopping at Consumer Crafts is quick and fun, everything is organized by easy to find categories. It didn’t take long for me to get lost in the jewelry section!

Here is a look at a few of the items I will be using to make a couple darling last minute Christmas gifts.

Be sure to enter any promotional codes at checkout. Your total will automatically be figured out for you, making it easy to keep track of how much you need to spend to take advantage of the FREE shipping!

Check back in a few weeks to see how my gifts turn out!

Follow Consumer Crafts on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Google+, YouTube, and Tumblr, and don’t forget to check out their blog, Crafts Unleashed, for great craft/DIY tutorials and project ideas!

This crafty sponsored post is brought to you by Consumer Crafts, all opinions are 100% mine.

The post Consumer Crafts Review appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

ADVENT CALENDARS

31.  Countdown to Christmas by The Sweet Life

32.  Bible Scripture Reading Countdown by The 36th Avenue

33.  Advent Jar by Mess for Less

34.  Nativity Advent Calendar  by The Craft Patch

35.  Advent Calendar Tutorial by The Crafty Crow

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS

36.  Ribbon Tree Ornament by All Free Kids Crafts

37.  Coastal Christmas Ornament by Made From Pinterest

38.  Glitter Twine Ball Ornament by Thinking Closet

39.  Hot Cocoa Mix Ornaments by Made From Pinterest

40.  Rolled Paper Tree Ornament by Her Tool Belt

For Christmas Ideas 1 thru 10 – Free Printables and Cookies,  click here.

For Christmas Ideas 11-20 – Main Dish and Side Dishes, click here.

For Christmas Ideas 21-30 – Candy and Gift  Tags, click here.

For Christmas Ideas 41-50 – Gingerbread and Desserts, click here.

The post 50 Homemade Christmas Ideas 31-40 appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Fall Letter Set from Home. Made. Interest.

Autumn Leaf Earrings from Jewelry Making Journal

Felted Wool Mug Cozies from Satisfaction Through Christ

Easy Glitter Pumpkins from My Frugal Adventures

Lovely Lace Pumpkin from Living Frugal with Erika

Toilet Paper Roll Wreath from Happy Deal Happy Day

Coral Side Table Makeover from BrePurposed

Fall Flower Box from Lovely Livings

Black and White Halloween Vignette from Ooh La Lovely Blog

Thanks again for sharing your projects and recipes with us during our link party! We hope you were as inspired by these featured links as we were. Please come back for our next Best Recipes and DIY Projects party, starting at 5 P.M. MST on Friday night! And keep an eye on your social media over the weekend, too. We like to showcase links that catch our eye during the party via Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. You might see your links featured there!

We shared this with Tatertots and Jello, and Whipperberry

The post Great Ideas for Fall Decorating appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Anywho, let’s talk favorites!  There were some neat projects for indoor and outdoor decor that were linked up.  We love ideas for making our homes cleaner, more organized, or prettier, so we’re delighted to share these with you.

Monogram Gallery Wall from Sondra Lyn

Painted Wooden Spoon Set from Clover House

Birdcage Decoration from Wesens-Art

Concrete Modular Wall Planters from A Piece of Rainbow

Entertainment Center to Media Console from The Moon and Me

Paper Flower Blossom Branches from Titi Crafty

Faux Silver Leaf Paint from DIY Fun Ideas

Creative Planters from Like Mother, Like Daughter

Thanks again for sharing your projects and recipes with us during Super Saturday #44!  We hope you were as inspired by these featured links as we were.   Please come back  for our next Super Saturday Link Party, starting at 7 P.M. EST on Friday night!  And keep an eye on your social media over the weekend, too.  We like to showcase links that catch our eye during the party via Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.  You might see your link featured there!

The post Share It Thursday from Super Saturday #44 appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Today is about one of those “classic” pins – an Etched Glass Soap Dispenser.  I will be very surprised if you haven’t already seen it.  Like I said, I think it’s a classic.

I have wanted to make this since the first day that I pinned it from Lil Blue Boo and guess what?  I now have one sitting on my kitchen counter.

This was super easy to make and it got my mind reeling thinking about all the possibilities!

But first let’s get this tutorial rolling!

You will  need to purchase an olive oil dispenser.  I’ve seen them around everywhere but I bought mine at Bed, Bath and Beyond for $4.99.  Next you will need some etching cream called Armour Etch which you can easily find at Michael’s.

The next step is probably the trickiest if you don’t have a Silhouette machine.  A Silhouette machine can cut out the words “Dish Soap” on vinyl that you adhere right onto your dispenser.  If you don’t have one of these machines, you can use a stencil, trace the letters on and then cut the words out with an exacto knife.

After cutting your letters out, adhere the sticky vinyl onto your clean and dry dispenser:

Liberally apply the etching cream with a paint brush making sure that you don’t go past the end of the vinyl.  If you look at the tail of my “P”,  I cut the vinyl a little too close and had to be extra careful not to get the etching cream on the side of my glass.

Leave etching cream on for about five minutes and then wash off with warm water.  Make sure you are using gloves during this whole process as this etching cream is an acid and can burn skin with contact.

After drying, peel off your vinyl, add your liquid dish soap and you now have a tasteful looking Glass Etched Soap Dispenser to adorn your kitchen counter just like mine!  I want to make another one that says “Olive Oil” since I do use another one of these dispensers for just that.  Wouldn’t that make a great wedding gift?

I am going to report that This Pin Rocks! even though I have one disappointment about it.  My liquid dish soap is thicker than olive oil, so when you turn it upside down, it does take a little while for the soap to come out.  Olive oil comes out much nicer.

But it is so much prettier than having a manufacturer’s soap bottle sitting on the counter that I am still thrilled with it and can definitely recommend this pin!

The post Etched Glass Soap Dispenser appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

To begin, put a little dab of glue on the end of the headband and glue the end of the thread to secure. Then, begin wrapping the embroidery thread over the end to cover the glue. Continue wrapping, making sure not to overlap the strands.

To add a second color, glue down one end of thread where you want a new color to begin. Cover the glued second color (I added gold) of thread by wrapping over it with the first color (my first color was purple). 

For double color or striped effect, begin wrapping the two colors at the same time. When you reach the end of the area where you want two colors, return to one color by gluing down the end of the second color (gold in this instance) and covering it by wrapping over it with the first color (Purple here).
Part of the fun of this kit is that there are so many ways to get creative. For my next headband, I decided to embellish the gold thread with pearl beads. First, I wrapped the entire headband in gold. Then I laid the beads down where I wanted them and wrapped once in between each bead. This secured beads perfectly and at the other end I finished off by gluing the thread, waiting to dry and trimming.

I used the same technique to create the black and diamond headband, but instead of putting the diamonds over the whole headband, I put them at the top.

Once I got started, I had so many ideas of different combinations. Black and gold with pearls would be beautiful. Pearls and diamonds on the same headband? You bet! You are only limited by your own creativity.

These headbands rock!

Head on over to Darby Smart. They are offering $10 off anything on Darby Smart for the next two days. Use the coupon code MADEBYME to save $10 Enjoy!

This post is sponsored by Darby Smart. Materials and compensation were provided. However, all opinions are my own and I only recommend products I genuinely think my readers will enjoy.

We are sharing this with: Living Well Spending Less, Lamberts Lately, What’s Cooking Love,Tatertots And Jello, Whipperberry, Sunny Simple , The Country Cook,Mandy’s Recipe Book,  Inside BruCrew Life, Hun What’s For Dinner

The post 20’s Inspired Headbands appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

When the super fun sisters here at Made From Pinterest invited me to contribute to their amazing blog, I was thrilled. Elated. It felt like I was invited to the most fabulous, the most coveted party of the year!

I rushed to the calendar. I marked the date. November 8.

It was etched in my brain …

At the time, it seemed so far away. I had weeks and weeks to plot and plan and get ready for the party.

Now I’m pretty sure you know where this is going. Yep. In the blink of an eye, a month flew by. And when I looked at the calendar — two days ago — and saw it was November 6, I flipped. I freaked. I only had two days to get ready for the most fabulous, the most coveted party of the year!

I had nothing to wear … was in desperate need of a cut and color … and an eyebrow wax. And was it even possible to drop 20 pounds in two days …

Luckily, I already had my party inspiration. From this pin from Country Living Magazine.

It’s an oldie but a goodie …

Off to the thrift store I ran, where I found some sweaters and some vases …

… and breathed a sigh of relief. Because I knew the biggest challenge of getting ready for this party – the most fabulous, the most coveted party of the year – was contingent on finding the perfect sweater.

And I found two.

Two perfect party sweaters that I proceeded to cut up with a scissor. Ha!

Because for this particular party I would be sporting sweaters on my vases.

I started by simply sliding the vase in the sleeve of the sweater …

and trimmed along the bottom …

and I was done …

Easy. And perfectly poised for a party.

For the tallest vase, I mixed things up a bit. Went a little crazy. Hey, it’s party after all! And slipped the sweater arm over the vase and cut it along the top …

And tucked in the extra fabric into the top of the vase …

Voila!

Seriously, this is the quickest I’ve ever gotten ready for a party. Ever. Under five minutes, start to finish …

And, if I do say so myself, I think these sweater vases are going to be the belles of the ball.

And they’re so flattering too. Slimming, don’t you think? I feel 20 pounds lighter …

Thank you Debbie, Tracy, and Sherri for inviting me to the most fabulous, the most coveted party on the Internet!

***You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and Google+

Are these darling or what???  Linda is lucky that I don’t live close to her because she just might have come home one day and these Sweater Vases just might have magically disappeared from her home! 

Thanks so much for sharing Linda!  (Now if only I could lose 20 pounds just by making these vases!)

Debbie – The Oldest Sister

The post No Sew Sweater Vase appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.