Monday, March 17, 2008

Getting KIds Ready To Learn Arts And Crafts

Getting your kids involved in arts and crafts is a very effective way to develop their creative side. Not only is it a great way to develop their creative side but it has also been proven that sharing arts and crafts is a fun way to bond with your children. There are plenty of projects for your kids to do, and fun is only the basic aspect of it.

The most important aspect about engaging in craft making with your kids is that apart from the obvious fact that everyone is having fun, your kids and you are also learning. Making crafts can improve many types of thinking and learning skills as well as long term judgement skills. Kids crafts are also a great way to keep your kids occupied on those rainy days or when there simply is not much else to do.

An effective way to keep your children entertained is to set up holiday crafts. This is guaranteed enjoyment for both parents and their kids. There are many crafts that you can do with your children regardless of their ages.It does not matter whether they are in primary school or elementary school, they can enjoy arts and crafts. Lets take a look at two simple kids crafts below.

Paper snowflakes. All you need is some white paper and a pair of scissors. Firstly you should fold the paper in half, then in half again until you have a triangle. Now you need to cut small shapes out of the paper, unfold carefully and now you should be left with a beautiful snowflake. If you want to make them fancier, your kids can use glue and glitter to give them a sparkling look.

Recycled cards . By letting your kids cut the message parts off the cards and gluing them to the front of either folded construction paper or lightweight card stock, they can make their own cards to send to friends or close relatives.

If you would like to discover over 365 easy crafting ideas and games for young children then please visit the website below.

Arts And Crafts - Quick Guide To Decorative Rug Making

When I got started as a custom rug maker, I admit I was in it for the money and a much needed career change. Since then I've had decorative rugs featured in Designer Showcase Homes, Corporate Headquarters of numerous Fortune 500 Companies, and even a Generals office in the Pentagon. It's been a great ride. But what if you don't care about all that, maybe you don't want a career change? What if you're just looking for a creatively rewarding hobby that'll blow the socks off your friends or family? Here's a quick guide to decorative rug making in 5 easy steps.

Step One - Learn the Basics: What's the best approach to learning how to make a rug?

Do some research, identify the different techniques used for rug making. You'll find basic teaching guides for latch-hook rug making kits that that will tickle Granny Smith's fancy. If the antiquated Latch Hook rug-making techniques make you *yawn*, then keep your eyes open for more comprehensive custom rug fabrication programs that are designed for more serious hobbyists and entrepreneurs. Hint: Google 'rug making'.

Step Two - Invest in Your Education: Identify an investment level that you're comfortable with.

Some hobbies require a larger investment than others. If you want a very low budget entry point, then Latch Hook rug-making with grandma is definitely the way to go - expect a measly investment of 50-100 dollars. On the other hand, a more specialized custom rug training program will cost 1,000 - 10,000 dollars, tools and equipment included.

Step Three - Create Your Studio: Create a space for your new studio / workroom.

A garage-like workshop with a 4 x 8 table is fine for a hobbyist. The table top should line up with your hips, not too high or too low. I like to add some splashes of color in my work- space. I make cool and colorful samples and hang them on the walls. It's fun to let those creative juices flow. Make your studio a fun place to come too and practice your hobby.

Step Four - Have fun with your rug designs: Fill up your home with your new creations.

Give them away to your friends and family. Identify themes to play with; what are your interests? There are countless attractive themes like - animal print rugs, abstract designs, company logos or heck, even a Star Wars Yoda Rug! Replicating a design into a rug is easy once you learn the tricks.

Step Five - Brace Yourself: Prepare for the WOW! comments coming from friends and family when they see what you're doing.

The questions will come: 'Where did you get this rug? You made this? Wow what talent you have... You're so talented... this is amazing, I had no idea you could make a rug like this...". I am not making this stuff up, it will happen.

Decorative rug making is one of those fun and creative hobbies that has the potential to uplift your spirits because it's so rewarding. You're actually producing something from start to finish. It does take some practice, but the steps are manageable and relatively easy to learn. Give it about 30 days of practice and you'll be well on your way to a enjoying a fun hobby.