It is usually easy to think of lots of fun and easy gifts for mom, but dad is a different story. He won't like the frilly little gifts that mom gushes over. So, as Father's Day approaches, you have to get creative and think about things that dad will love and can use. Here are a few suggestions for fun Father's Day crafts this year.
Loose Screw Paperweight
Dad can always use a paperweight and this one is easy and fun to make. Before starting, get in the garage and collect spare screws, nails, nuts, bolts and other small hardware items. Now, make a mixture of plaster of Paris and water (use the instructions on the box, or mix two parts of plaster and one part of water). You will only need enough to make a fist-sized paper weight.
Stir the plaster until it has a very smooth consistency. Spoon the mixture on to a piece of wax paper (or an aluminum pie pan) and have your child mold a paperweight. Press the hardware pieces into the plaster and allow the object to dry for several days. Have your child pick out a color of paint and spray paint the paperweight. Popular colors for dad may be gold, black, blue, or silver. Trace the bottom of the paperweight onto a piece of craft foam and cut it out. Attach to the bottom with glue so it will protect his desk from scratches.
Decoupage Pencil Holder
This is easy to make and you can be sure that dad will appreciate and use this little gift. You will need one empty and clean can. When you open the can, make sure the edges around the rim are not sharp. You can also use a clean quart sized paint can. Start by covering the can with a piece of cardstock paper or decorative scrapbook paper. Simply measure the can and cut it to size. Glue in place.
Next, print out or find several family pictures that you think dad will like. Have your child cut them out. Using Mod Podge or similar decoupage glue, coat the back of each picture and glue in place. Have your child create a picture collage on the can. When you are finished, coat the entire can in a thin layer of glue and allow to dry. Add some new pens or pencils and give to dad.
Soap for Dad
Even dad could use some nice homemade scented soaps. This is an easy way to make soap that dad will appreciate. Purchase a box of Ivory Snow soap and pour into a mixing bowl. Add water until it has the consistency of bread dough. If you want the soap colored, add in a little food coloring, however, that is not necessary. You can add a few drops of dad's cologne or after shave to give it a nice smell. Spoon out a bit of the mixture and make into a ball (about the size of a golf ball). Repeat until you have plenty of soap balls to give dad. Let the soap dry for several days. Place in a decorative box, or wrap in tissue paper to give to dad.
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