Crafting Gifts and Decorations

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  This is the current issue of the Florida Orange Grower's newsletter.  Look through all the sections and enjoy the information.

  Learn the art of Batik. Find loads of other crafts to spark your own imagination. This is just full of great ideas. And it is part of a Kid's Network. Even I could understand it.

  Many years ago, I was all set to make some pretties from small paper sacks but when I went looking, I found I had only one little bag. For my project, I needed five little gift bags. I took the one bag and opened it along its seams. Using it as  pattern, place the template on gift wrapping paper. Cut out your new bag and glue or tape together along seams. Fold as the original so that it will sit up on its own. I wanted to make a little handle so I cut little vertical slits about 1/2 inch long, every 1 inch or so around the top of a bag. Taking colorful ribbon, thread the ribbon through the slits drawing up loops in the middle of each longer side to make the handles. Leave the ribbon long to make a nice big bow for decoration.  These are not meant to be strong and carry a heavy gift or to last for a long time. (See my new section on Tote Bags).

  These can, of course, be made out of plain wrapping paper or the fanciest you have. Increase the size of the bag or just use a larger bag as a pattern. If the ribbon is a bit complicated or you need more ideas, try tissue paper. Depending on the size of the finished gift bag, place your folded sheet of tissue paper into the bag to where the corners stand up and out of the bag. Place the gift inside the tissue paper. Get out your gift tags and pretty bows to put the finishing touches on your work of art. Add a few stick on decals but they may need extra glue. Look through your own assortment of pretties.

  When you need extra strength at the top for a handle, fold over the top 1 inch toward the inside of the bag. Using a braid type bric-a -brac, make a loop for handle and staple ends to top of bag on inside. I have a metallic cord I bought a big spool of long ago and does perfect for this project. 

  The Snowmen in a Basket are so cute they will give you great ideas. You can make them as simply as suggested or add your own abilities. Also find great links to sites with brown bag crafts. Most are great ideas to make with the kids, the time & materials are minimal and fun!