Welcome to a new season of Hands On where some exciting changes for this season await you. From a new host Candie Cooper, to a new set and logo, and a whole new attitude about crafting, the aim is to make crafting a part of your life every day; surround yourself with things you make, and make being creative a part of who you are.
Hands On Crafts for Kids is a popular long-running series all about crafts for kids presents a new adventure through various projects. Viewers will learn about different island cultures and all about the people you meet everyday.
And don’t forget about 5,4,3,2,1- every project has just 5 ingredients and 5 steps; Back In Time crafts of every age from ancient civilizations to the present; Camp Hands On — take a trip into the Great Outdoors or just your own backyard and create you own camp experience; Crafts Around the Earth — habitats of the world; Crafting Together — crafts for groups and families; Crafts Around the World — visit different countries and cultures each week; and Hands On — the first Crafts for Kids.
Details
LENGTH: 182 x 30 Minutes
FORMAT: Series
CAMERA: Digibeta
INTERNATIONAL TRACK: Yes
TEXTLESS: No
CLOSED CAPTIONS: No
ASPECT RATIO: Seasons 100 – 1200 (SD: 4:3) Seasons 1300 and 1400 (Widescreen 16:9)
PRODUCTION YEAR: 2002-2012
RELEASE YEAR: 2006
SUPPLIER: KS Productions
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA
RIGHTS TERRITORY: Worldwide
1401 My Workspace: This episode features crafts to fix up your workspace –whether it’s the kitchen table or a desk in your room – make the supplies you use every day. We begin with a recycled portfolio with monster clips. Next, there’s no excuse for having a mess on your desk with a great organizer made from old CD’s. Then, make a catch-all organizer from any size basket and finally, a foil frame with a fun embossing technique.
1402 Keep in Touch: Don’t you love getting mail – real letters and cards in your mailbox and not just email to your phone or computer? This episode is creating cards to make any occasion special. First is a giant team card for everyone to sign. Then, cards for all occasions; whatever the date, whoever it’s for, and whatever the sentiment –we have a card – Mother’s day, Father’s Day, lucky days, and summer time. Finally, make pizza party invitations-– when your friends see this invite they’ll know what’s on your menu!
1403 Wacky Ideas: Not everything you make has to be useful – sometimes it’s all about making the funniest, weirdest craft you can and just being really creative. Today we’ll be making an out of this world photo station – the kind you put your face into to take a picture. Then, make some crazy glasses, change your personality, or just change your outlook with crazy glasses. Next, there’s no excuse for not wearing a silly hat – and it’s easy to choose your favorite animal. Finally, tie dye a tile with your handprint.
1404 Trendy Jewels: The easiest way to update your style and show off your crafting is to wear your creations. Today we’re making all sorts of trendy jewelry. We begin with a bottle cap necklace. Then make a denim cuff bracelet from old jeans. Next it’s a bendy clay heart bracelet and finally, get out the glitter for a beautiful heart necklace. You can never have too much glitter especially on jewelry.
1405 Year Round Parties: You don’t need a holiday as an excuse for a party – just about any day deserves a celebration. On this episode make decorations for the perfect party every day. Party favor pencils are first, made from little blocks of foam to create everything from a mummy to a snowman. Then, it’s a gingerbread garland for any day – it all depends on what they’re wearing. Next, make three dimensional pumpkins in far out colors. Then, it’s a tic-tac-toe pizza game for your next party. Finally, create a bunny perfect for Easter but also adaptable to other holidays.
1406 Kitchen Crafting: One of the favorite places to craft is right on the kitchen table, so we thought it was a great idea to include kitchen crafts on our show. We start out with gift wrap made from recycled containers like mesh fruit bags. Then, learn a new way to decorate cupcakes with sugar sheets. Next, move on to candy monsters. Candy bars never looked so good and paper wraps make the the perfect party treat. Finally, learn felting with a non edible cupcake.
1407 Personal Space: Your space is just that – YOUR space – so why not personalize it with things that mean something to you. We’re making crazy duct tape buttons first. Then put all of your stuff in a handy denim chair cover. You don’t have to be a surfer to love surfboards – you might live by the ocean or just wish you did! We have all sorts of wall decorations. Finally make your dreams a reality by creating a personal dream jar for all of the things you want to do.
1408 Just Have Fun: Crafting is supposed to be fun – there’s no right way – no correct colors – there are enough rules in life without making them a part of your crafting. Begin with emoticons, crazy computer symbols just for fun. Then, create a diorama of your vision of outer space – and don’t worry if it’s realistic. Next, make funny animals from just one shape. Finally, finish up with pillows made from old t shirts.
1409 Crafting for Your Friends: Why keep all of your crafting to yourself? It’s fun to make things for your friends and family. This episode features four craft ideas that make great gifts – but you might just want to keep them for yourself! First is a stylish belt from recycled materials. Then, make a pin cushion for your favorite sewer – maybe mom? Next, it’s a coffee cozy for hot beverages – maybe for dad? And finally, a handmade tree vase for just about anyone who loves the outdoors.
1410 Right in Your Own Backyard: Today’s theme is crafting right in your own back yard. Seed packet flowers are first and you can even plant them. Then, it’s a clay nest and eggs. Next, it’s time for a friendly frog ready to hop right off of the lily pad. Finally, make a flower headband to keep the outdoors with you all of the time.
1411 Holiday Party: Holidays are the perfect excuse to craft. It can be decorations, or ornaments or even accessories to get into the holiday mood. This episode is a whole year of celebrations starting with an Easter garland featuring bunnies and chicks. Then, make lollipop ornaments that are not just for on the tree. Next, it’s door hangers or signs for all different events and finally, a celebration of snow.
1412 Crazy Creatures: This episode, our every day craft projects are all creatures – they could be funny, or realistic or even imaginary. Start with clay monsters of every color, shape and size. Then, it’s a hardware plaster casting. Next, we collect all of the leftover nuts and bolts and turn them into a robotic creature. Finally, make suction cup birds for a crazy window decoration. We’re not sure if these birds want to get in or get out –they seem to be stuck on the window!
1413 Games and Sports: What could be more fun than combining games and crafts? Craft a game board, make up a game, or celebrate your favorite team. We begin with team bracelets in your school colors. Then, make a shoe tag for your backpack or sports bag. Next, it’s two games – alien miniature golf and finally, a game board using leftover buttons
Series 1300
1301 Peru: Our first stop this season is Peru, a country in western South America, bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile; home to the Incan Empire. Folk art in Peru is not just a way to show the culture but a way of life and livelihood for many people. Our crafts include traditional crafts and animals. First, is a scarlet macaw found in the tropical rainforest. The scarlet macaw is a large bird about thirty-five inches long with colorful feathers of bright red with touches of yellow, orange and blue. They have a curved bill and can fly at speeds of up to thirty-five miles an hour. Next, are embossed and painted clay beads with interesting symbols. All sorts of natural materials like clay, seeds, nuts and stone have been used for centuries in making beads in Peru. Then, we make a felted wool bag. Traditional native clothing made from Alpaca wool is common in the highlands of Peru. Alpacas are raised for their wool and the fiber is used for knitted and woven items like blankets, ponchos, and scarves. Our final project is a metallic sun sculpture.
1302 Italy: The land known as Italy today has been the cradle of European cultures such as the Etruscans and the Romans. Our crafts feature special products from Italy and the influence of religion. First, is a majolica inspired dimensional decoupage – a long name for an easy technique. The name majolica was derived from Majorca, the port from which majolica was originally traded. In the 13th century, during the Renaissance, a small town in Umbria made use of a special clay to make Italian pottery. The clay is formed, dried, and fired for the first time; then the cooled form is dipped into mineral oxide creating a white opaque background on which the designs can be painted. The next project takes inspiration from the beautiful stained glass windows of the many Italian cathedrals. Churches and cathedrals are an important part of Italian architecture. Inspiration for the cathedral window quilt pattern comes from the beautiful stained glass windows of Italy. Then, we’re off to the quarry for a marble frame. Carrara is a city in Italy famous for the white or blue-gray marble mined there. It has been used since the time of ancient Rome for famous sculptures by Michelangelo and in architecture such as the Pantheon. Finally, we create a micro mosaic in a traditional religious design – a cross shape. A characteristic of micro mosaics is that the glass threads or beads are elongated. The Vatican mosaic studio created many of the micro mosaic religious icons.
1303 Canada: Nature and the outdoors play an important part in many designs from Canada. In this episode, we’re featuring some of the tribal designs of the native people. First, is a foam totem featuring woodland animals and birds. Commonly carved from wood, totems feature animals especially woodland creatures. Then, we create a story hide – mimicking a leather hide but made from paper. We’re making miniature friendship hides with authentic chalked designs. Next, we learn the meaning of inukshuk – it has to do with directions. Inukshuk is a stone landmark built by Inuit people since there are very few natural landmarks in the arctic. They can be used for navigation, as a point of reference, or sometimes as a marker for hunting or food. The last project is a foam pine cone to represent the evergreen forests of Canada. Evergreen Pine forests dominate the landscape of Canada with different varieties of cones – we’re featuring the ponderosa pine cone.
1304 USA: The United States has a rich heritage of crafting with many crafts originating with the first inhabitants, the Native Americans, others brought over by immigrants, and lastly traditions developed in the New World. Our first project is a wall hanging featuring the American Eagle. The eagle is the symbol of freedom in the United States and the national bird. Next, we explore an age old craft that is just as popular today – quilting. Our quilt is paper not fabric. The industrial revolution brought many changes as women no longer had to spin their own fabrics for their family. As more cotton in colors and prints were available quilting became a hobby. In the 1840’s block styles became popular. When the sewing machine was invented, women could make clothing faster, leaving more time for quilting. We’re making traditional quilt blocks from paper. Then, we make a rain stick inspired by Native Americans who have used them for centuries in ceremonies to bring rain. When they are tilted, the pebbles inside trickle down to create the sound of rain falling from the sky. Our final project is a beaded corncob. The United States is the largest producer of corn in the world producing more than 10 billion bushels per year on over 400,000 U.S. farms.
1305 Australia: Travel to the land down under for historic aborigine crafts and some of the common animals associated with Australia. Australia is a country but also a continent located south of Asia and surrounded by water. It is known for its wide ranges of vegetation and animals from the dry outback to the Great Barrier Reef. Our first craft is a koala magnet. Koalas are found in Australia often in a eucalyptus tree. Next, learn about aboriginal symbols with two projects: a boomerang and a rock painting. The aborigines were early inhabitants of Australia and left their mark in caves and rocks. The designs often are a repetition of small geometric shapes. We’re making both a rock and a boomerang – a traditional item from Australia originally for hunting. The next project is a wooly sheep. Australia is the leading producer of wool – mostly from Merino sheep with the finest and softest wool. The last project is a bolo tie again featuring aboriginal geometric design. Aborigines are tribes that believe in a strong tie to nature and storytelling is a big part of their culture. Dotted patterns are often used in their art.
1306 Japan: Japan Is an island country located east of Asia, made up of hundreds of smaller islands but four main islands. The country has a rich history with great ties to the past. Many of their cultural traditions have been handed down for generations. Our first craft is an adaptation of a temari ball which creates a beautiful round ornament. Temari is a traditional Japanese craft usually involving very intricate embroidery designs. We’re creating a simple example using yarn. The next project is a bonsai tree. Bonsai is the term for all miniature trees in containers in pots. The word originated in China but has become a prevalent Japanese activity. The trimming of the miniature plants is an art form in Japan. Then, we’re folding paper into a fish design. Folding paper or origami is a traditional craft of Japan using simple folding techniques to create intricate designs. In our picture today we’re folding small squares of paper and mounting them on a board to form a picture. The last project teaches about traditional Japanese pottery and Japan’s symbols. Imari porcelain is usually a milk white glaze with a few enameled colors. Florals, dragons, phoenix, bamboo, and birds are common subjects.
1307 China: China is located in eastern Asia and has the largest population of any country in the world with over 1 billion people. We visit China for beautiful symbols of the Chinese New year and traditional Chinese designs. Our first project is a Ming design vase with a surprise source of paper. Ming china is often blue and white and originated during the Ming dynasty. A bamboo pattern is a traditional design. Then, it’s time to learn about the art of paper cutting – Chinese style. Chinese paper cutting is an ancient art very much like paper snowflakes. Paper is traditionally cut from red paper with very short scissors. Common patterns are the crescent, arc, and saw tooth. The cuttings are used to decorate doors, windows, mirrors, lanterns, and gifts. They can also be used for patterns for embroidery and lacquer and are meant to bring good luck. The next craft includes two different dragon projects. The first is a paper mask and the second is a dragon dance stick to help celebrate Chinese New Year.
1308 Russia: Russia, the largest country in the world, is located in northern Eurasia. It also has the largest reserves of energy and mineral resources. Many of the traditions are influenced by early Byzantine and Slavic cultures. Our first project is an onion dome – a beautiful example of Russian architecture. The onion dome is characteristic of Russian orthodox churches throughout Russia, including St. Basil’s Cathedral located in the Red Square in Moscow. The cathedral was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the capture of an enemy. A Greek cross with four arms of equal length tops the brilliantly colored onion dome. Then, we make our version of a matryoshka or nested doll using foam. Matryoshka dolls or nested dolls are the most famous traditional souvenir of Russia. Most are dolls but owls are another popular design. The next project is a lacquer box. Russian paper maché boxes are made by pressing layers of paper with resins under great pressure. The base is painted black with a brightly colored picture painted with an artist hand. Some of the detail is so fine that a single squirrel hair is used as a brush. The box is finished with many coats of lacquer. The last project is a Fabergé style egg with a hidden surprise inside. The house of Fabergé is a jewelry firm founded in 1842 in imperial Russia, producing Fabergé eggs for the Russian tsars. Most are miniatures and usually made of precious metals or stones, decorated with enamel or gem stones.
1309 India: India has over 1 billion people and is located in Southeast Asia. It has a wide range of climates. Our crafts concentrate on some of the Indian national symbols. The first craft is a new batik method using glue to create a peacock feather on a shirt. The peacock is the national bird of India symbolizing grace, pride and beauty. Then, it’s another view of a batik look project but this time we use paper and our design is an elephant. According to legends in Hindu Mythology, demons churned the ocean, but an elephant called airavata reached his trunk down into the underworld, sucked up the water and then sprayed it into the clouds producing cool rain water. Each year in March/April an elephant festival is held. Elephants with painted and decorated shields made from gems and velvets are judged. The next project is a beaded pendant or ornament featuring bright colors and metal beads. Threads, beads and cowries are twisted together to form beautiful jewelry and adornments. Jewelry is an art form in India. Tikka is the spherical pendant for the forehead, dangling earrings are jhumkas, nath is a nose ring, kadas a type of bracelet, and payals for ankles with tiny bells and chakto or toe rings. The last project is a frame using foil to create the look of mirrors and pressed metal. Metal work is an important craft in rural and small towns in India. The metal is etched, into intricate designs with different cities known for various design styles.
1310 Mexico: Mexico is a North American country located south of the United States in Central America. It has a range of climates from tropical rain forests to dry mountains. Our crafts feature traditional designs and lots of color. The first craft is called huichol – or bead ware – we create a simple version of this craft. Huichol or beaded works are a new type of art for a group of people from central Mexico. The usual way to create the huichol is to press glass, plastic or metal beads into beeswax inside a wood form. There are special patterns and symbols. We’re using seed beads and a clay saucer. The next project is an ojo dios. Similar to southwestern Indian ceremonial shields using yarn and sticks, these god’s eyes are traditional to Mexico. Using sticks and yarn we create a traditional god’s eye pattern. Then, we create Banderas or cut paper banners with interesting color patterns. Banderas or cut paper banners have been made in Mexico since the time of the Aztecs. We create beautiful paper blooms in every color of the rainbow for the last project. Festive flowers in bright colors are a traditional Mexican craft found on every street corner.
1311 Ghana: Ghana is located in Western Africa. The temperature is tropical and the population is very diverse. There is a great emphasis on handcrafted items with many symbols accenting the designs. Our first project is an Ashanti stool made from craft sticks. The Ashanti stool is a symbol of power and status – every chief has one. The (gye nyame) symbol is an extremely well known and popular image in Ghana symbolizing the power of god to make all things equal. The Ashanti belief is that the stool holds the soul. Then, its time for creating your own wooden jewelry with African symbols. African trade beads really originated in Venice and were used to trade for things such as ivory and palm oil. These beads still exist in Ghana and are prized as a big part of African jewelry. Next learn a little about weaving with a jute basket. Today Ghana is known for its rich culture and diverse landscapes, including the savannah grasslands where the weavers get the materials for these baskets. The heavy elephant grass used in these baskets is tightly woven making each basket strong yet flexible. We have fun creating a foam version of a mancala game for our last project. Mancala is the generic name for a group of games from ancient Africa, still popular today. We’re making a lightweight version of this game which was traditionally carved from wood.
1312 Egypt: Egypt is located in North Africa. Most of the population is near the Nile River since the desert covers much of the rest of the country. Our crafts are inspired by ancient Egypt and common symbols of this country. Our first craft is appropriately a pyramid – a well known symbol of Egypt. A pyramid is a building where the outer surfaces are triangular and converge at a point. The Egyptian pyramids are huge structures built of brick or stone, some of which are among the world’s largest constructions. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest in Egypt. It was one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and the only one of the seven to survive into modern times. Next, we create the Pharaohs cobra headdress in paper. The figure of the serpent is an emblem of royalty and is shown on many Egyptian rulers. Children wore a special hairstyle in ancient Egypt. The hair was shaved except for a side lock on the left side. They often decorated their hair with amulets of small fish to protect them from the dangers of the Nile. Then we create a 3D asp or snake made from an old tie. The asp was a symbol of royalty but is also a poisonous snake used in ancient Egypt as way to execute criminals. The symbols of hieroglyphics are used to create a message for the last project. Hieroglyphs refer to the characters made by drawing figures. The word means sacred carving and was a formal writing system used by the ancient Egyptians.
1313 Scotland: Scotland is a part of the United Kingdom and is located west of the European main land. The country is known for inventions and a respect for learning. Today’s crafts honor the country’s heritage and important contributions to the world market. Scotland is the home to many castles; we’ll learn a little bit about castle construction and create our own castle keep. Towers or keeps were used to defend a castle. Many are round though they can also be other shapes. If they were part of a town wall or the outer ring of a castle, they might be open in the back. The first project is a keep is in honor of Inverness Castle overlooking River Ness in Inverness, Scotland. Then, we create fingerless gloves made from wool. Crofts or small farms are all over Scotland. In parts of the highlands, sheep farms are very popular. Wool is an important part of the economy for yarn and fabric. The next project is a tartan pillow with chosen clan colors. Because the land is rough, people in Scotland were separated into clans. Each clan has its own chief and all of the members have a common ancestor. Each clan has its own colorful pattern or tartan for weaving cloth. Finally, we take a Celtic design and create a woven design. The original inhabitants of the Scottish highlands were of Celtic descent. Celtic is an ancient language that is again becoming more popular with many symbols or letters featured in Scottish jewelry and crafts.
Series 1200
1201 – Birds: Our first category of living things is animals with a backbone or vertebrates. This is the one thing they have in common and their other characteristics can be very different. We start out with birds. These are warm blooded animals. No matter what the temperature outside, their body temperature stays the same and they have feathers to help keep them warm. They vary in size from the tiny hummingbird to a huge ostrich. Birds have 2 legs and 2 wings. They also have a beak and no teeth. Birds are hatched from eggs. Many birds can fly but not all flying animals are birds and there are even some birds that can’t fly. Our first project is a colorful, paper toucan mask. Next, is a beautiful watercolor bird mobile featuring commonly seen birds. Last, create a clay birds nest filled with different types of eggs.
1202 – Amphibians: Amphibians are our next category of animals with a backbone. They hatch from jelly covered eggs and start out their lives under water breathing with gills. The babies look very different from adult amphibians. One example is tadpoles and adult frogs. They usually live on or near water and adults can breathe through lungs or gills. They are cold blooded which means their body temperature depends on the temperature of their environment. They have smooth skin and no scales. Some examples are frogs, toads and salamanders. Our first project is a hinged salamander made from foam board with Heather Lancaster. Then, its time for a fun, “dancing” frog made from Styrofoam. Then it’s another type of salamander from clay and this one is perched on your pencil! Last, it’s a crazy quilt card featuring your favorite amphibian.
1203 – Fish: Today’s category is fish – these are vertebrates that live in water and are typically coldblooded which means their body temperature changes depending on the temperature around them. Fish have scales and 2 sets of paired fins and several unpaired fins. Fish also use gills to breathe and most lay eggs. Our first project is a tropical fish bowl that never needs food! Then, join Heather for a clay fish fossil. Then, we’ve caught a rainbow trout that we can keep forever. Last, learn machine sewing to create a crazy quilted fish.
1204 – Mammals: Today’s category of animals is mammals. These are animals with a backbone. Mammals also have 4 limbs thought they can be arms, legs or even flippers. For today’s show we’re looking at the broad category of mammals. Here are some facts: Female mammals have the ability to produce milk to feed their babies. Mammals have hair or fur that help them adapt to temperature changes. Almost all mammals give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. They breathe though lungs. Mammals are the most intelligent creatures on earth. They learn to adapt to many different climates and living conditions. Some mammals are tame, some are wild, some are very large and some are small. First, we create an interchangeable mammal using clay – you’d be surprised how many animals you can create from a few shapes. Next, get fuzzy with a wired dog or maybe you have another animal in mind? Then, it’s time for more clay. Learn how to create beads that copy the hide or fur of your favorite mammal. Last, it’s a pop up book featuring whales.
1205 – Herbivores: Our first classification of mammals is herbivores. These are animals with a backbone that eat only plant materials. Plant eaters usually have large incisor teeth for cutting and chewing plants. They have large molars for grinding tough plants and they have a different digestive system to allow for slow digestion of plant fibers. Elephants are our first project – it’s hard to believe that an animal this large eats plants. We’ve designed a clay frame that copies an elephant’s hide. From large to small; the next herbivore is a comical squirrel sock puppet. Then, we’ve got more fuzzy, giant pipe cleaners to transform into a Zebra. Last, it’s your favorite mammal t- shirt from panthers to birds made into a tote or duffel bag.
1206 – Carnivores: Today’s animal category is carnivores. These are mammals with a backbone that feed mostly on meat. What an animal eats is influenced by how it looks. Meat eaters have strong jaws and teeth designed for tearing and crushing. Usually carnivores prey on other animals for food rather than grazing on plants. Our first carnivore is an owl made from paper. Then, it’s a matching game – match paws and fur patterns in this easy game. Last, it’s the wild cats of the jungle. Learn a new fabric technique for giant wall art.
1207 – Reptiles: Today’s animal group is reptiles. The word reptile means to creep. This group of animals has dry, scaly skin, breathes air and most lay eggs though many snakes have live babies. They are also coldblooded; their body temperature changes with their environment. They have 4 short legs or no legs at all. Some examples are crocodiles, alligators, lizards, turtles and snakes. First, we have a stained glass snake. Use the pattern from his skin to contrast with the background. Then, it’s an alligator; his rough skin is created with an egg carton technique. Next, it’s a clay turtle with a hidden surprise. And last, learn how the chameleon changes color.
1208 – Insects: Our next classification of animals is insects. These are invertebrates which mean they do not have backbone but they are arthropods which mean they have a hard exoskeleton or tough coating on the outside of their body. Their body has 3 parts: the head, thorax and abdomen. Insects have 3 pairs of jointed legs, compound eyes and 2 antennae or feelers and also one or two pairs of wings. Insects are cold blooded and many have a life cycle called metamorphosis. Some insects that you might have seen are: crickets, wasps, bees, grasshoppers, beetles, moths, and flies but there are thousands more. Our first project is a clay dragonfly with great iridescent wings. Then, make a personal mouse pad by creating your own butterfly stamps. Next, it’s a giant Styrofoam ant. And last, we have a cute bumblebee made from felt.
1209 – Arachnids: Arachnids or spiders are an animal and invertebrate or without a backbone. They have an exoskeleton, a two part segmented body, and 8 jointed legs. They are also predators and attack other animals. First, what’s a spider without a web; create your own glittery window cling. Then, its time for a very whimsical interpretation of a spider from found materials. Last, take an in depth look at a real spider with a drawing technique.
1210 - Crustaceans and Mollusks: Soft bodied invertebrates that live in water or on land are grouped as mollusks. Snails, clams, mussels and squid are an example. Mollusks usually have a shell and a fleshy living part; this body has a very distinctive foot or way to move itself. Mollusks are one of the most varied life forms and can be found in places from mountains to oceans. Crustaceans are also invertebrates with a tough coating or shell on the outside of their body. Shrimp lobster and clams are an example. Our first project is a contemporary octopus with a very dominant eye. Then, it’s a wall decoration of your favorite crustaceans using glue. Last, create pearl and shell beads from clay.
1211 – Flowers: In our study of living creatures, we move from animals to plants. The plants we feature are all known as land plants. Most plants have in common the process of photosynthesis. This is the process that allows plants to take energy from the sun. Plants also have cell walls. Instead of dividing plants by scientific classes, we feature 3 ways we see plants every day. The first type is flowers. Flowers or blossoms are a part of the plant – usually the prettiest! On today’s shows we start out with creating canes from clay to make flowers. Then, use color pounded from real flowers to make artwork. Next, it’s a sewing technique with ribbon to make rosettes. Last, learn to make spirelli flower shapes.
1212 – Fruits and Vegetables: Today’s show continues with another common way we see plants everyday – fruits and vegetables. Fruits are a part of the plant and the way that flowering plants spread seeds for new plants. Vegetables are actual parts of the plants – they can be the stem or stalk like celery, the leaves like lettuce, roots like carrots or bulb like an onion. First, we have a new use for old t- shirts. Learn how to transform them into aprons with a real fruit stamp. Then, corn turns into a paintbrush for creating a frame. Next, create jewelry using clay beads that mimic orange slices. Last, create an overhead look at a farm or garden using beans and seeds.
1213 – Trees and Bushes: Some of the most familiar plants are trees and bushes. Trees are a woody plant with a distinct main stem, or trunk. At maturity, trees are usually the tallest of plants, and their height and single main stem are what make them different from shrubs which are shorter and have many stems. Trees are perennials, plants that live for at least three years. First, is a seed container made to look like a tree. Then, create clay letters as room décor with a fun technique for creating texture. Last it’s some of the products made from trees in one project.
Series 1100
1101 – Going Green: Our first skill for life is knowing the importance of protecting and preserving the environment by going green! We’re learning about recycling and reusing things we already have. Our first project is a set of lanterns made from recycled plastic cups – perfect for outdoors or at a party. Next Prudy Vannier introduces us to using our crafting for charity with a project making birdhouses for our feathered friends. Then it’s cards that can be planted with handmade paper. Last up store your treasures in a stained glass design box made from recycled cardboard.
1102 – Outdoors: Today on Hands On we’re heading outside. In our quest for lifelong skills it’s good to spend time with nature. First we create a sit upon for around the campfire or just quiet time outside enjoying nature. Then it’s a birdhouse for our feathered friends; this is a skill that can provide lots of enjoyment for years to come. Next we take what we’ve learned about watercolors one step further with the addition of salt and create a 3D lizard. Last up we feature clay in a tile project using embossed images from nature.
1103 – In the Classroom: This season is all about skills for life, and let’s face it a big part of your day is spent in school sitting at your desk, so today we have some personal accessories for your desk — you can even use them at home. First is a mailbox – send notes back and forth to your friends or create a message center for your class. Then it’s a basic lesson on clay and making a pendant. Next it’s marbleizing paper for cards and tags or place cards for your desk. Last up make a desk blotter and make sure everyone knows this is your desk!
1104 – In the Kitchen: Everyone needs to eat – so today it’s off to the kitchen. First meet Angie Thayer and a lesson on measuring all sorts of ingredients. Then it’s a little kitchen decorating and a new technique called iris folding – one that’s applicable to lots of designs. Then Angie is back with a recipe that uses all of your measuring skills. Last up make your own herb garden for the kitchen window sill.
1105 – Your Room: When it comes to learning skills for life, one of the things you always hear about is taking of your space, or as it’s more commonly known – cleaning your room. We have some ideas for your room on today’s show. First keep your jewelry organized and untangled – and if you’re a boy – make a great gift for mom. Then it’s a bulletin board for your room to keep track of dates, appointments, and pictures. We have 2 versions. Then it’s an instant style update with clay knobs for dressers and desks.
1106 – On the Road: Hands On comes to the rescue with some great ideas for traveling – whether by car, train or plane. So on that next long car ride how about bringing along a magnetic game and carrying case. Then we have a new life skill to share. Kathleen Sams has been on the show before with beginning crochet – this time she takes it one step further with different stitches. Then we have a fortune teller – you may have seen these before but here’s a new spin and a great game for in the car. Last up Kathleen Sams has a hat project to use your new found crochet skills – and did we mention that crocheting is a great travel craft?
1107 – At Home: There is no place like home – and no place better to make great crafts and learn new skills. Our first Hands On project is a rolled paper frame – so get out those family pictures. Then learn a new skill guaranteed to be one that’s useful for your whole life and that’s hand sewing – next time you have a button fall off you’ll be ready. Then Prudy Vannier is back – the saying is that charity begins at home and this pillowcase project is a perfect way to help kids in shelters. Last up we have a project that uses your new found sewing skills – a cell phone case.
1108 – After School: Its 3 pm you just got home from school, its too early to start homework, your friends aren’t home and there’s nothing to do; Hands On to the rescue with some great ideas for after school. First combine nature with the kitchen for a fun paperweight or decoration. We’ve got a new skill for you to learn after school and that’s sewing on a machine. Then we’ve got a great décor project – for a party, room decoration or even outdoors – paper lanterns are easy and fun. Last up, let’s take those machine skills and try a sewing project.
1109 – In Math Class: Whether math is your most favorite or least favorite subject , today on hands on we have some ideas that will make math class and math skills more fun. First the game of dominoes is a fun way to learn numbers . Then put your math and counting skills to good use and learn knitting. Kathleen Sams is back with next steps in knitting. Then we create a calendar that fits right on your math notebook. Last up Kathleen is back and a project using your new found math and knitting skills.
1110 – With Friends: Friends are one of the most important parts of life and being a good friend is something everyone needs to learn. Today’s crafts all center on friendship. First show your friends you care with a get well, or just a friendship photo gift. Then it’s a lesson on pens – your projects will be more successful if you match your tools to the surface. Next it’s a window card for any occasion you want to let your friends know you care. Last up, it’s bracelets for each of your friends.
1111 – On Vacation: Hands On is going on vacation and we hope you can join us. Today’s basic lesson is that its important to remember and keep memories of fun events in your life. Our first project is a travel album for pictures and mementos. Next it’s the basics of making lanyards and working with plastic lacing. Then Prudy Vannier is back with another charitable project making postcards for the military that are far from home. Last up identify and personalize your backpack or suitcase with a lanyard key chain.
1112 – At School: In our skills for a lifetime, today we head to school. Learning is happening all over school but first we need to take care of the basics. First up is a locker organizer; keeping your supplies together is a skill we all need everyday. Then we meet Prudy Vannier with a treasure box project for charity. Then it’s book covers to keep those school books clean and cared for and personalized. Finally personalize your pencils with portrait toppers.
1113 – Sports: Since this is our last program on skills for life, we thought we’d feature a favorite activity: sports. Today is all about making things to celebrate your favorite sport. First up we’re decorating socks with your name, team logo or whatever you like. Then Prudy has another charitable project; learning to help those less fortunate is a true life skill. We’re making sports charms for your shoes. Then it’s a sports wallet for your gym bag – perfect for keeping an ID or emergency cash. Last up it’s a watercolor pennant featuring your favorite team.
Series 1000
1001 – Shapes: From Rectangles to circles, our projects feature basic shapes and seeing those shapes in other things. The first project is a shape flower – basic shapes make up giant flowers arranged in a clay pot. Then we’ll have a basic lesson on clay with our guest Linda Peterson. Next Prudy Vannier of the Society of Decorative Painters has our first painting lesson – today is all about choosing a surface. Then Linda is back to teach us how to make animals – it’s all about shapes of course. Then our last project is a triangle tessellation block – that’s a repeating pattern that would continue forever without overlapping or leaving any gaps.
1002 – Patterns: Patterns are formed by repeating the same elements in a recognizable order. On today’s show we’ll be making a patterned frame featuring shapes and color. Then its our basic lesson on plastic lacing with Mary Slivinski – you can braid it twist, tie it and so much more. Then it’s our painting lesson with Prudy Vannier – we’re prepping wood today. Then Mary is back with a back pack tag featuring our basic lesson. Last up it’s another pattern project – we’re making paper bead jewelry.
1003 – Calendars: Calendars are a system of organizing units of time for the purpose of reckoning time over a period. Most are based on cycles of astronomy: days (based on the rotation of the Earth on its axis), the year (based on the revolution of the Earth around the Sun), and the month (based on the revolution of the Moon around the Earth). First up we have a perpetual calendar – it can be adjusted whatever the day. Next we’ve replaced our basic craft with an extended painting lesson with Prudy Vannier. We’re talking about the basic tools and choosing the right paint brush. Then it’s a sun calendar that rotates to the correct day. Last, it’s equal time for the moon and a calendar of the moon phases including a planting guide.
1004 – Weather: Rain or shine, warm or cold; weather is the state of the atmosphere at a given time and place with regard to temperature, air pressure, wind, humidity or moisture in the air, cloudiness, and precipitation or rain or snow. Our first project is about wind, we’ve got a windsock that will look great on even the windiest day. Then it’s our basic lesson – when the cold winds blow – you’ll want a warm scarf. Kathleen Sams is here with the basics of knitting. Next, it’s Prudy and the different types of paint.Then Kathleen is back with a project featuring what you’ve learned in our knitting basics. Last up we’re making weather tiles – one for each season of the year.
1005 – Art Forms: Many different types of art forms exist – in fact just about any material can be used in creating a work of art. First up we’ve got a very unique project, it features glow in the dark clay and paint – but it’s not used in the usual way – we’re creating a lava lamp. Then it’s our basic lesson – our guest is Tracia Williams and her daughter Sydney – they’ve got the basics of jewelry. Then on painting basics, Prudy shows us how to transfer a pattern. Tracia and Sydney return with a jewelry project where beads become an art form. Last up we have a new medium to show you – it’s a unique moldable material for 3 dimensional art.
1006 – Letters: Letters can be used to form words, a monogram, a name or as a shape all by themselves. Sometimes it’s fun to look at something you see every day in a new way and that’s what we did today on Hands On. First is a stained glass project – at first glance you might wonder where are the letters – but you’ll see. Then it’s all about cutting with Melanie Bauer on today’s basic lesson – there really is a right and wrong way to cut. Prudy’s painting lesson is painting on fabric. Then Melanie is back with a cutting project featuring letters. Last up, Tracia and Sydney are back with a backpack tag featuring your name.
1007 – Family History: What’s the first question most people ask? What’s your name – your last name is your family name – we share the same name as our parents, grandparents, and aunts uncles and cousins. On today’s show we thought we’d feature family history and ways of preserving that history. We start out with family blocks and also show how to make a sign for your room or locker with your name. Then its today’s basic lesson – with today’s theme we thought it was a good time to introduce scrapbooking. Then we have a family tree page and a family fun page. Prudy’s painting lesson is all about basic painting strokes. Last up it’s a mini album featuring your family.
1008 – Time: Time can be measured in seconds, minutes, hours or days. First, time can seem so long – how many days until the party – or until my birthday – we’ve got a chart to make the days fly by. Then its today’s basic – Kathleen Sams returns with the basics of crochet. Then it’s a painting lesson with Prudy – shading and highlighting – how to create depth. Then Kathleen is back with a feature project using yarn to crochet. Last up – a time program wouldn’t be complete without a clock.
1009 – Paper Collage: There are a few products that come from trees – mainly paper and wood. Along with these materials is our feature technique – collage. Collage is created by cutting or tearing materials and pasting them onto a painted or unpainted surface. The art of collage was initiated in 1912 by Picasso. Our first collage is a letter tin using mostly paper. Then it’s today’s basic lesson – where we feature wood. Next it’s Prudy and finishing techniques. And finally it’s a different look at paper collage and a little bit of wood too.
1010 – Symmetry: Our topic today is symmetry – that means that one side or half of an image is exactly the same as the other or appears to be a reflection or mirror of the other half. Our first project is a butterfly card that’s perfectly symmetrical. Next it’s a basic lesson on air dry clay with Gail Ritchie. Prudy’s painting lesson is working with stains on wood. Then our clay expert Gail returns with a great symmetrical project. Last up symmetry is illustrated perfectly with a jewelry project with Tracia and Sydney Williams.
1011 – National Symbols: Patriotism is always in style and today on Hand s On we look at some national symbols and how they became a symbol. First up it’s the American eagle and a very unique way to tie dye. Our basic lesson is all about how to work with Styrofoam. Then its lesson 11 with Prudy as we learn how to transfer patterns along with floating and blending brush strokes. Next it’s a feature project using Styrofoam – coincidentally we chose the elephant: a symbol of one of our political parties. Last up, it’s a turkey/eagle favor – and an interesting story about our national bird.
1012 – Music: As our first project we’ve taken musical notes and the musical staff and made them into a sun catcher. Then its craft basics and a lesson on glue from Prudy – the right adhesive with the right material. Next we’ll be making colorful maracas. Then Prudy returns with a painting lesson on faux finishes – they’re popular on small items and on walls too. Last it’s a door harp featuring bells.
1013 – 3 Dimensional Art: 3D means that an object has 3 dimensions – a line has one dimension – length – a rectangle has 2 dimensions length and width but a cube has 3 dimensions: length, width and depth. So 3D Art has 3 dimensions. Our first project has 3 dimensions too. It’s string art done with wood and thread. We’ve got a perfect craft lesson for 3 D – we’re introducing papier mache and how to make it. Next is Prudy’s final painting lesson and how to use a color wheel. Then it’s a very fun 3D project. Wait until you see our modern papier mache version of Mr. Potato Head. Last it’s a 3D jewelry project with Tracia and Sydney Williams.
Series 900
901 – The Bahamas: The Bahamas are located in the Atlantic Ocean west of Cuba and Florida. The Bahamas are actually over 700 islands. When Columbus discovered them in 1492, they were the home of the Lucayan Indians. Tourism is the major industry and the low lying islands are ringed by coral reefs and beautiful water. The name Bahama comes from baja mar – or shallow seas and was first named by Columbus. It is home to the clearest water in the world. The Bahamian culture is known for bright colors and lively music – no where can you see this better than in the Junkanoo parade.
901-1 Junkanoo Costume: Junkanoo is held on Dec 26 and January 1. It began centuries ago as a celebration of temporary freedom for slaves who were given days off at Boxing Day. The parade includes themed costumes of crepe paper. Thousands dance through Bay Street, in Nassau. Each costume consists of a headdress, shoulder piece and shirt. Here’s the hands on version of a junkanoo costume.
901-2 Painted Cowbells: Music is an important part of the Junkanoo parade – cowbells are combined with goat skin drums and brass horns to create the rhythmic pattern of the music. In fact the main element of Junkanoo is Goombay music, the Banta word for rhythm. The parade has a unique step called “rushing”; instead of walking it’s a rhythmic procession of two steps forward and one step back all in time to the music. Our next project is a painted cowbell.
901-3 Wooden wind chimes: The Bahamian Island culture is known for music and the soft breezes of this tropical climate. This wood wind chime combines music and bright Bahamian colors and also mimics the beaded hair designs found in the Bahamas. It also highlights an island tradition of creating music from found items.
901-4 Paper Conch: Pronounced “Konk” Queen Conch is the most abundant, versatile, and popular shell of The Bahamas. It is also edible and can be made into salad, fritters, chowder, cracked and scoured conch. The shell is used for decoration, jewelry and crafts and in fact Potter’s Cay Dock, located under the Paradise Island bridge, was originally created from discarded shells crushed to become land fill. The Hands on version is made of paper.
902 The Philippines are actually made up of 7100 islands, this is called an archipelago. Located north of the equator in the westernmost Pacific Ocean, the Philippines are north of Indonesia and directly east of Vietnam and are a part of the East Indies. The people are known as Filipinos. It is a place of contrasts. There are very modern areas, but also some of the oldest tribal communities in the nation. The cultural traditions have many roots based on their history – there are Asian influences, English words, and Spanish religious influence. The Filipinos traditions are very diverse. The isolation of each island became the primary influence on traits, behavior and culture.
902-1 Sarimanok: This is the legendary bird that has become a symbol of Maranaw art. It is depicted as a bird with wings and feathered tail, holding a fish on its beak or talons. The head is decorated with scrolls, leaves and spirals.
902-2 Inlay Box: This box highlights two main products of the Philippines and their art – mother of pearl and brass. Okir is a design with Indian and Islamic influence. We create a papier mache box with the look of precious metals.
902-3 Palm Frond Tote: Palms are found in many tropical climates, but in the Philippines they are also an important part of their culture – for weaving, basketry, hats and totes – rather than weaving the palm –we use the palm as a stamping tool.
902-4 Parol: Bright colors and swirling squares, pentagons and octagons, this Christmas star lantern is the countries most ethnic Christmas symbol. Layers of colored paper cut in intricate designs form these lanterns. The Parol was originally used to light the way to church on December 16th, the official start of the Christmas season. The Parol is an expression of shared faith and hope.
903 Sicily: Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. Located off the southwest tip of Italy it shares many cultural traditions with Italy but also has a culture all its own. Because of its history and location, there is evidence of Asian, African and European traditions especially Greece and Italy. Sicily is a unique place for art, archeology, history and folklore. Sicily is known for great food and strong family values.
903-1 Coffa Basket: Traditionally, Sicilian women carry their groceries in a coffa basket – they are different shapes and sizes and relate back to the agriculture on the islands.
903-2 Bread Board: We often associate grapes with Sicily – but wheat is its most important crop. The dry climate is perfect for grains and bread making is an art form. This project is a wood- burned bread board.
903-3 Pasta Jars – when you think Italian – you often think of food and family gatherings and of course pasta which is another grain product. We create hand painted pasta jars – great for holding different pasta shapes, or as a decoration with dyed pasta.
903-4 Terra cotta: Clay found in any area is unique. This clay is used in the production of terra cotta (the Italian word for baked earth) earthenware in Sicily. The most well know is Majolica – this is ceramic earthenware – this means the clay has been baked at a very high temperature to make it opaque. Majolica is painted with tin oxide lazing enamels before firing for a shiny finish.
904 New Zealand: New Zealand is made up of 2 major islands and is located south east of Australia. It is a very mountainous country with some large coastal plains. Tourism is the largest growth industry. Settled by the Maori, this is actually a combination of Iwi, Hapu and Whanua units. The name is derived from Ma-Uri which means children of heaven. Originally they were hunters but became farmers. Today the approximately 500,000 Maori live manly in cities but are closely connected to their tribes.
904-1 Maori Kite: Maori is the cultural group first inhabiting New Zealand. In Maori carving, this style head is known as the Tai Tokerau and is from the northern part of the north island. The distinguishing feature is the bell shaped head. Kites were flown both for fun and sometimes serious reasons by both adults and children. At social gatherings each person would have their own kite, though not all flew perfectly. Some were made of bark.
904-2 Jade Koru Pendant: Elaborately carved personal ornaments are often worn in Maori culture. The spiral koru symbolizes an opening fern frond, bringing new life and purity. It also represents tranquility and new beginnings. Jade is also found in New Zealand. The traditional carvings on jade, wood, bone and balsam record history, events, and the identity of the carver.
904-3 Maori Pendant – our second jewelry piece introduces other Maori symbols. These symbols have a distinctive pattern and are often found as tattoos. This art form is an important indicator of rank.
904-4 Sand Cards- many islands have sand – but in New Zealand it is a part of one of their art forms. We duplicate this look with colored sand and cardstock and traditional symbols plus a creative shaker card.
905 Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world, located just 250 miles from the east coast of Africa. In the late 1690’s and early 1700’s, Madagascar was a refuge to pirates because of the Indian Ocean trade routes. . It is also know as the great Red island. The main languages are Malagasy and French. Historically the traditions are rooted in their Indonesian and African ancestors.
905-1 Treasure chest jewelry box: As a pirate escape, Madagascar had all of the right elements: good weather, friendly locals, fresh water, abundant food and at the time – no military to bother the pirates. This paper craft treasure chest is reminiscent of the trunks of that time period and can hold your precious treasures.
905-2 Snake: Madagascar is home to more than 80 species of snakes – none which are dangerous to humans. One snake that is greatly feared by natives is the harmless fandrefiala. The Malagasy believe this brown, tree snake drops tail first from trees while stiffening its body like a spear to stab people or cattle. We make a bendable snake to illustrate this type of snake.
905-3 Sunset moth: Compared to their African counterparts, Malagasy butterflies are generally larger, more vividly colored and tend to have more exaggerated wing shapes. The large day-flying Sunset moth is marked with iridescent colors on its wings.
905-4 Wooden Spoons: The only eating utensil traditionally found in Madagascar is the spoon! We decided to take the spoon and create a work of art.
906 Taiwan is part of the Republic of China between the Philippines and Japan. Their culture is influenced by China but also has elements of Japan and the west. Many traditional values are based on Confucianism. This is a system of thought developed from the teachings of Confucius. It covers conduct, practical thought and social rules. These ideas include many related to family.
906-1 FengShuii Wind Chimes – 12 Lunar New Years Wood cut prints are used for each of the Lunar New Years. These are usually black outlines printed on red or orange paper. We create a wind chime design featuring Lunar patterns.
906-3 Wood weaving: Printed wood cuts are a popular art form in Taiwan. Usually they are black stamped on to red or orange paper and are often a part of lunar New Year celebrations. Another popular stamp is one using your name for a seal – these are embellished to be an art form.
906-4 Plum Blossom branch and sachet: The National flower is the plum blossom. The 3 stamens stand for the 3 principles of the people and 5 petals for the branches of government. It has great symbolic value because of its resilience in harsh weather.
907 Puerto Rico is located south east of Cuba and Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea. Puerto Rico is Spanish for “rich port”. It is a self governing territory of the U.S. Compared to some of the other islands in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has a high standard of living with a vibrant industrialized economy. Spanish and English are the official languages. Puerto Rico culture is committed to music and dance. It is known for folk songs, ballads and classical music as well as Latin dancing such as the salsa.
907-1 Sand Castle Glitter Globe: Fort El Morro is a 6 level fortress completed in 1589 and named in honor of King Pliuppe II. With 18 foot thick walls, the fort is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks outposts and ramps. El Morro has small circular sentry boxes called garitas – or lookout towers that have become a national symbol. It is the largest fortress in the Caribbean.
907-2 Red and White Jar: The first inhabitants, the Taino, originated a style of pottery with white on red pottery. This is traditional art form found in Puerto Rico. Lesson: Papier Mache: First is a lesson; papier mache basics to create a mask shape.
907-3 Puerto Rican Mask: Caretas are papier mache masks used in ceremonies in Puerto Rico. They are usually scary with horns, fangs and bulging eyes.
907-4 Crayon Frame: The bright colors of crayons are use to indicate the many diverse cultural groups within the Puerto Rican community. With Spanish, American and African traditions – it is a varied history. Color also plays a significant role in the garments and decorations for ceremonies and dance.
908 Cuba: The largest island in the West Indies, it was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492. Located south of Florida it is semi tropical and has over 3500 small islands surrounding the main island. Music and dance personifies the culture especially the traditional salsa.
908-1 Surrealistic Painting: During the 1950’s a style of art was introduced with an emphasis on geometric form and color rather than realism. This was influenced by the Spanish painter Picasso. Next came Surrealism– this is where the mind and dreams are presented in the painting – there is also less structure. We create our own painting in this style.
908-2 Hidden Symbol Sugar bowl: Though most natural resources stay on the island – sugar is its main export. We create a painted sugar bowl.
908-3 Cuban Tody bird: The distinctive call of the tody can be heard all over Cuba. These beautiful multicolored birds are one of only 5 species of todies in the world. They eye color of the tody varies from blue to brown to gray
908-4 Ruffled Rumba Conga Shakers: It is difficult to talk about Cuban traditions without including music and dance. These shakers are of traditional colors and design. Also called Tumbadoras, the single head Cuban drums originated from Makuta drums in the Congo. They were first made of hollowed logs with cowhide, now they are made of fiberglass.
909 Jamaica is the third largest island of the West Indies locates in the Caribbean Sea south of Cuba. . The island cultural traditions reflect both African heritage and British style. It is know for beautiful natural surroundings of mountains and beaches. The island is named after the Native American word Xaymaca which means “isle of springs”. Reggae is the dominant t music style and is a combination of African folk music and calypso which originated in Trinidad.
909-1 Bandanna Pillow: One of the traditional Jamaican costumes is made of a bandanna print usually red and made of cotton. We use this traditional print to create a pillow and other accessories.
909-2 Rasta Bracelets: Rasta colors are red, yellow, green and black based on the colors of the Ethiopian flag. The Rasta religion and culture originated in Jamaica and reflect a political movement.
909-3 Gourd Tote: The calabash is a gourd used for purses and vases. It is covered with traditional etched designs.
909-4 Doctor Bird: The Swallowtail hummingbird or doctor bird lives only in Jamaica and is the national bird. It is one of the most beautiful of the 320 species of hummingbirds. Jamaica also has over 3000 plant species over 27% are found no where else in the world.
910 Hispaniola The island of Hispaniola is home to both the Dominican Republic and Haiti. These are 2 very different cultures. Dominicans speak Spanish and follow Spanish traditions; Haitians are mostly of African descent with French traditions. Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere. Haitian Creole language is part of new movement to define the national culture reflecting African heritage. Creole has been added and accepted in many art forms such as literature, dance, music and theater. The Dominican Republic is known for music. Spanish and African traditions blend in the meringue. Another key tradition is baseball – baseball fields are found in every community.
910-1 Baseball Pennant: Baseball is the national sport of the Dominican Republic. Baseball is part of national pride for the country.
910-2 Clay dishes- Visit a gift store in the Dominican Republic and you’ll find a unique art style marked by symbols of their heritage. Bright but rich colors mimic the natural dyes first used there.
910-3 Market Scene Sack: Women carrying baskets of fresh produce on their heads is a common scene at the Haiti marketplace. The long, warm growing seasons on the island provide fruits and vegetables through out the year. Mangoes, beets, cantaloupes, avocados, papayas, hot peppers and spinach are just some of the produce grown on the island.
910-4 Street Artists Canvas: This painting illustrates a style found throughout the island – showing real people in their daily activities. The style is not very formal, with bright colors and simple images.
911 Tahiti is one of the 118 islands of French Polynesia and is the largest and most populated with the unique capital city of Papeete. Sometimes people refer to all of French Polynesia as Tahiti but this is not correct. It is located about 2700 miles south of Hawaii and 3600 miles east of Australia. French and Tahitian are the official languages. Artistic and cultural expression can be seen in woodcarving which is done primarily by men, and weaving of hats, purses, bags and mats from plant fibers of the pandanus, coconut and reed. Other art forms are the tifaifai which are hand sewn bedcovers with plant and cultural themes and lastly stone carvings for decorative and useful items. Stone carvings were thought to hold spiritual powers and only trained specialists were allowed to carve them. The last cultural craft tradition is mother of pearl for embellishments and jewelry.
911-1 Tiki Tapa Bookmark: The technique of beating bark to make a vegetable fabric is made in many island cultures. Tapa from Tahiti is one of the best known and special for its high quality. In Tahiti making tapa is a woman’s job. First men plant the breadfruit and paper mulberry tree. When the trees mature, they are cut down by the men. Then the bark is removed. Then the women start their part. They soak the bundles of bark in a stream, and then scratch away the outside bark with a shell. The inside remaining strips are placed on top of each other and then the hammering begins. They use a square beater with carved grooves that get progressively finer. The bark is hammered thinly or layered for a thicker cloth. The fabric is dried and then some are dyed red or yellow. Designs are then added.
911-2 Monkey pod drum: The Pahu or drum is made of monkey pod wood in a special Tahitian style. During the making of tapa, the beating of the drum with chants gives the rhythm to the process. The wood grain of the Tahitian drum has contrasting light to dark tones and carving is added to enhance the design.
911-3 Fish Mobile: Fishing is a mainstay of the diet and industry of Tahiti along with tourism. The waters surrounding Tahiti are home to some of the most beautiful tropical species of fish.
911-4 Tifaifai: In the tradition of hand sewn bedcovers – hands on creates a pillow using appliqué techniques with a plant theme featuring the palms of Tahiti. In the Tahitian language tifaifai means to mend or patch. The Tifaifai technique is to fold the fabric in half and then in half again. The paper pattern is then placed over the folded fabric and pinned and all four layers are cut at the same time. The design is then unfolded and stitched t the background fabric.
912 Japan: Japan, or Nippon, means the land of the rising sun. Japan consists of 4 major and over 4000 smaller islands and is a mostly mountainous country. Japan is a major economic force in the world. The culture is ancient with centuries of Asian influence and tradition. Japanese culture reveres simplicity but loves ceremony and elaborate rituals. Many art forms are represented in Japan and the practice of art is itself a cultural tradition.
912-1 Eraser Prints- Wood block prints are a traditional Japanese art style. Printmakers first used wood cut patterns with very intricate texture. Many of the most famous Japanese artists used this art form. We have a created an easy form of printing using erasers.
912-2 Origami scene – Sakura at Yoshino Mountain; Origami or paper folding is one of the great art forms of Japan. We create an origami scene of the sakura, or Japanese flowering cherry. The delicate blossoms last only 2-3 days. Hanami, or flower viewing, is a Japanese custom that dates back to ancient times. Yoshino Mountain is known for its groves of 100,000 cherry trees, a strong gust of wind creates a cherry blossom blizzard, known as sakura fubuki. It looks like pink snow falling. This design is reminiscent of Hiroshige – famous artist of romantic landscapes.
912-3 Kakejiku – this is a traditional decoration for homes and schools celebrating the seasons or a special occasion. Using Shikishi paper with easy brush strokes or Sumie, this design is the sakura. Painting is the most practiced art form in Japan. In the past the Japanese wrote with a brush rather than a pen, because of this painting was an easy transition.
912-4 Tanabata Lantern- Paper netting decorations are displayed throughout Japan on July 7 in honor of the Tanabata celebration. One of the legends of this date is the story of the weaver princess, Irihimem who fell in love with a cow herder named Hikoboshi. Because the couple spent so much time together Orihimi forgot about her weaving. Her father, the king, decided to split the couple and place them on opposite ends of the Milky Way, permitting them to see each other only one day a year. On that day birds make a bridge with their outspread wings so the couple can meet. Another popular Tanabata custom is to write wishes on a piece of paper, and hang them on trees.
913: Ireland: Ireland’s is known as the Emerald Isle for its beautiful landscapes. Unlike some of the islands we visited – this is not a tropical climate. The Irish people are of Celtic origin leading to many of its traditions. Farming was the traditional occupation. The country is the second largest of the British Isles, located east of continental Europe. The Celtic style has many stylized plants and animals; not many people. Curves, ellipses and spirals are also used. They usually were made into intricate geometric patterns. That were found on shields, bowls, jewelry and even pottery. Once Christianity took hold in Ireland, the Celtic designs combined with Christian designs on religious pieces.
913-1 Celtic Mermaid: Celtic tradition is rich in imaginative tales and mythology from leprechauns, to pots of gold and even mermaids. We make a clay mermaid.
913-2 Potato Putty: How could we study Ireland without mentioning potatoes? Ireland is known for simple hearty food: beef, lamb, soda bread and of course potatoes. But more importantly to Celtic tradition is the village storyteller, or Seanchai. He is gifted at recalling stories and traditions with great detail and presents the stories in an imaginative and entertaining way. Sometimes the stories are historical events passed from generation to generation or sometimes the stories are “tall tales” made up right on the spot. The Seanchai is the keeper of the stories and traditions of Ireland. Hands on creates a Celtic Journal with Potato putty.
913-3 Bodhran (Drum) and Biddle (drumstick); as in many cultures, music is important to the Celtic tradition. A traditional instrument is the Bodhran, in fact it is the oldest musical instrument in Ireland. Here is the Hands On version.
913-4 Illuminated Manuscript: One of the most amazing examples of religious art were the illuminated manuscripts made by the monks. Ours uses a special gold metallic paper.
Series 800
801 – School Days: Don’t miss a message! When your friends stop by your locker – they’ll have the perfect place to leave a note. This notepad is also perfect for by the phone at home or on the door to your room. Memo and Mirror: Keep track of assignments, dates and classes with this cork memo board. Perfect for your locker, it’s also a great addition to your room at home. It even has a mirror! Peel N Stick Binder: Why have a plain binder when you can create a retro cover so easily with adhesive backed fabric. Bookmark: Star Locker Mirror: After a mad dash after gym class, check out your hair in this great start locker mirror.
802 – Let It Snow: Enjoy a good book on a cold winter’s night and don’t forget your snowman bookmark. Candy Ornaments: If it’s snowing, the holidays can’t be far away; these great candy ornaments look good enough to eat. Snowflake Album: Remember all of the great times you had this winter in your own album decorated with snowflakes – just like the real thing – no two will be the same! Snow Globe: This skier is set for the slopes – no matter what the season. Snowman Frame: Create a snowy keepsake frame for a special memory.
803 – My Room: Bulletin Board: One simple element like a retro flower can create a theme for your whole room. Start with a bulletin board and then just imagine all of the other possibilities. Initially Yours: Personalize your space with your initial. This great technique can be adapted to many different looks. Twists and Turns: Catch the breeze with a fanciful indoor whirligig. Gem Jar: Who knows what you’ll put in this gemstone jar? Sport Mache: If you love sports, create a room theme with great hang-ups featuring your favorite sport.
804 – The Great Outdoors: This snail is creeping along. He’d be a great room accent or maybe find a home in a potted plant. Butterfly Mobile: 3 butterflies have landed on this mobile for a porch, room or any place with a breeze. Paper Bucket Flowers: Flowers of all shapes and colors are blooming on these easy flower accents. Painted Pebbles Frame: Take a walk outside and find some pebbles for a unique frame. Embossed Plant Markers: Clay is the basis for embossed plant markers – you’ll always know what’s growing!
805 – Paper: Cards, Tags and Wrapping: Create your own cards and say thanks in a personal way. Simple Gift Tags: To and From have never been easier when you make a tag for the perfect gift. Pop Ups: Pop ups are fun on cards and scrapbook pages – this is the easy way to create them. Gift Bags: The bag should be as unique as the gift and it will be with gift bags you make yourself. Wrapping Paper: Wrapping gifts is a snap when you make your own stamp.
806 – Party Favors: Keep track of your glass with personal cup markers. Candy Favors: To eat or not to eat? That is the question with these great candy favors for your next party. Treat Bags: Your guests will love the bag as much as what’s inside with fun treat bags. Clay Favors: Working with clay is a party in itself – these clay Instant Pics: Record the moment just as it happens with an instant photo, then each guest can take a picture and this Best Friends notebook home as a favor.
807 – Make It Personal (Girls): These beautiful charms only look like enamel – they’re really made from wood and paint. Sandals: Why leave your sandals plain when you can jazz them up with wire and paint accents to reflect your personality! Gift Box Purse: Learn how to make one of today’s hottest crazes – box purses – for carrying or storing. My Journal: What could be more personal than a journal you decorate yourself?
808 – Just for Me (Boys): Keep your paws off my back pack! With this keychain or tag everyone will know it’s yours! Award Frame: It’s just as fun to give awards as it is to get them – this easy idea shows a few ways to celebrate your achievements Sport Tag: This fun shoe tag identifies your sport bag, suitcase or back pack. Foam Mouse Pad: Who said a mouse pad has to be a mouse – how about a lizard pad? Wacky Animal Bank: I don’t think you’ll see any of these animals out in the wild – but they may be hiding your savings in your room.
809 – My Room 2: Create a soft glow with a protected candle in its own decorated glass cover. Brick Bookends: Bricks have a whole new look as bookends when they’re painted with a unique design. Retro Lamp: Pop art is back with a retro lampshade from wood shapes. Retro Room Divider: Why stop at a lamp – create that retro look with paper room dividers or wall hangings. Cork Coaster Sport Board: Who said bulletin boards have to be square? Circles are the inspiration for this sport memo board.
810 – Scrapbook and Frames: A school picture is the perfect place to start scrapbooking and this simple layout is a great beginning. Party Album: Parties and pictures go together; this party album cover is a great way to store your photos. All the World’s a Stage: Choral concerts, dance recitals, orchestra concerts: create the perfect page for these events. Picture Holder: This is the most unique way you’ve ever seen to display, photos, papers and achievements. What makes it special is that you can change the photos any time. Pet Frame: Don’t forget your best friend – the animal kind; with a frame just for them.
811 – For the Birds and Bugs: This songbird is perched at the window all year long. Bug Corkboard: Don’t forget an event with a fun corkboard with a creepy theme. Paper Bag Puppets: The birds have moved indoors as crazy puppets. Ant Farm: This ant farm diorama only looks real – no runaway ants will be invading your space. Birdhouse: This is really for the birds! A decorated birdhouse made from stones you collect outside.
812 – Wild and Wacky Parties: The animals have gone wild in this jungle party theme complete with favors, invitations and place markers. Aloha!: It’s off to the islands with a luau theme with favors, cards and centerpiece.
813 – Holiday Hang-Ups: This foam ghost announces its time for Halloween. Wire Wreath: This miniature wire wreath is a great ornament, door hanger or package decoration. Reindeer Frame: Hang this reindeer frame with your perfect holiday picture. Patriotic banner: Memorial Day, 4th of July, any day is a good day to show your patriotism! Turkey Door Hanger: From the minute you step in the door – this door hanger announces its time for Thanksgiving.
Series 700
701 – 1 Clay Lobster: The chief lobster fisheries in the Unites States are located in New England especially Maine. Lobsters are crustaceans, all have a pair of pincers called chelapeds, or “claws”; one is a heavier crusher claw and the other is a smaller feeding claw. We always picture lobsters as red – but did you know that most start out other colors even blue/green and only turn red when they are boiled!
701 – 2 Braided Rug: Recycling is not a new idea. The American folk art of rug braiding, originated in New England in the 1820’s. Resourceful women cut wool strips from used clothing and blankets, and recycled them into braided floor rugs.
701 – 3 Rhode Island Penny Rug: The Rhode Island Red is the state bird of Rhode Island, also the home of the first penny rug. The penny rug got its name because coins were used as templates to cut wool circles from used blankets and clothing. The circles were then stitched in a decorative pattern to a wool background with a blanket stitch. Penny rugs were also used as bed coverings and table runners, rather than rugs.
701 – 4 Tic-Tac-Toe: The Rhode Island Red Chicken shows up again in this fun game. Store the game pieces in their own coop too.
701 – 5 Maple Soap: New England is known for their abundance of trees including the beautiful maple. Maples are known not just for their beautiful colored leaves in the fall but also for maple syrup. Our soap has both the maple shape and scent.
702 – 1 Garden State Flowers: New Jerseys nickname is “The Garden State” and for good reason. One million acres of New Jersey is productive farmland (about 20% of its land area). Garden vegetables, cranberries, blueberries, and peaches are their prime crops but today lets not forget New Jersey’s beautiful flowers!
702 – 2 Pizza Game: The origin of pizza actually goes back to ancient times, but pizza, as we know it today began in Naples, Italy. In the late 1800s an Italian baker, created a dish for visiting royalty. To show his patriotism the baker chose to top flat bread with food that would represent the colors of Italy: red tomato, white mozzarella cheese and green basil. By the beginning of the 1900′s pizza made it’s way to the cities of the United States, especially New York and Chicago, through Italian immigrants.
702 – 3 Big Apple Jewelry: Today we’re talking about apples – but not any apple, this is the Big Apple – New York. This popular nickname for New York City reminds us of the prominence and size of New York City. We’ve incorporated apples into bookmarks and jewelry; in fact they’d be a great teacher gift.
702 – 4 Pennsylvania Dutch Wood Plate: Many of the inhabitants of Lancaster County are Amish, a religion that is known for humility, family and community, and separation from the world. Although Lancaster Amish are Pennsylvania Dutch, all Pennsylvania Dutch are not Amish. The Pennsylvania Dutch live in Central Pennsylvania. Their common bond is a mainly German background. There are many traditional designs found in this region and on the plate we’re making.
702 – 5 Blue Hen Pottery: The Blue Hen chicken was adopted as Delaware’s official state bird in 1939. Sometime during the 1400’s a potter in Germany bought inexpensive wood to fire his kiln. This wood was from crates in which fish had been salted. When the potter opened his kiln he expected to take out his pots, glaze them and fire the pottery again as usual. But to his surprise he found that the stoneware was completely finished with a beautiful clear glaze after only one firing. It was the salt in the wood that left the glaze. When the colonists came to this country they brought salt glazed stoneware and the unique technique for making it.
703 – 1 Cinnamon Log Cabin: Visit the small towns nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians and you will find many log homes. As these towns were settled it was difficult to bring building materials into the mountains, so often the local trees were used to create log cabins; but none smell so sweet as our cinnamon house.
703 – 2 Palmetto Bug: People in the south wouldn’t think a bug was worthy of a television spot but we just had to have one creepy, crawly on this season. Bugs flourish in warm, humid climates.
703 – 3 Cardinal and Dogwood Sachet: Both Virginia and North Carolina share the same state bird and flower: the cardinal and the dogwood. In fact cardinals are the most popular state bird all across the United States, found in 7 different states, second is the Western Meadowlark.
703 – 4 Kitty Hawk: On December 17, 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright made the world’s first powered airplane flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
703 – 5 Tramp Art: This is an American folk art consisting of chip carving on cigar boxes and fruit crates. Soldiers of the Civil War passed around the carving technique. It is generally incorrect that tramps and hobos did this work as payment for rooms and meals – but that is where the name came from.
704 – 1 Gator Bulletin Board: Alligators were almost hunted to extinction, but today they have made a comeback. Alligators have a short blunt round snout. They are only found in the Southeast United States, especially Florida, and in China! Believe it or not they are afraid of humans when found in the wild – but I wouldn’t get too close.
704 – 2 Fruit Slice Votive: Citrus fruits are a major part of the South’s economy, especially Florida. The Spanish explorers brought the first plants. Today citrus plants such as oranges and grapefruits are the most important group of all tropical and sub tropical plants.
704 – 3 Mardi Gras Mask: Mardi Gras is a traditional holiday celebrated in many of the southern states of the USA. The most famous celebration takes place in New Orleans, Louisiana. The people there enjoy this celebration by going to parades where they catch “beads, doubloons, cups, and trinkets” that are all thrown from floats. Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday. This is the day before Ash Wednesday, leading to the days of fasting before Easter Sunday in the Catholic religion. Mardi Gras came to New Orleans through its French settlers.
704 – 4 Sea Shell Frame: What’s a visit to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean without collecting shells. Did you know you’re not really hearing the ocean when you put a shell up to your ear – what your hearing is the constant noise around you that you tend to ignore? When you put anything against your ear even a glass, it strengthens a certain group of frequencies of sound – so you’re just hearing outside noise.
704 – 5 Textured Shells: Continue learning about shells: the size and shape of the shell determines the sounds you hear. Make sure the previous inhabitant of that shell is gone before you try to hear anything! The shell is the hard outer cover secreted by the animal to protect itself.
705 – 1 Paul Bunyan Puppet Theater: Paul Bunyan is a myth, or folk tale. He was a very large lumberjack. Most of the tales about him revolve around his size and his best friend, Babe the Blue Ox. They said that Paul had grown out of his father’s clothes by the time he was one week old and that the tracks he and Babe made running around Minnesota made the 10,000 lakes.
705 – 2 Turtle Maraca: A study of folklore would not be complete without mentioning some of the symbols common to the Native American tribes, which inhabit the USA. These are not “tall tales” but animal symbols, which were used to portray certain characteristics. The turtle represents the heart of the soul, the keeper of life and the symbol of women.
705 – 3 Pecos Bill Tornado: Why, everyone in the West knows that Pecos Bill could ride anything. He decided to ride a tornado starting in Kansas. Finally that tornado decided it couldn’t throw Bill so it headed west to California and rained itself out. It made so much water it created the Grand Canyon. Finally Bill fell off. He hit the ground so hard it sank below sea level. Folks call the spot Death Valley!
705 – 4 Buffalo Bill Vest: William Frederick Cody, known as Buffalo Bill, was a buffalo hunter, U.S. army scout, and an Indian fighter. But he is probably best known as the man who gave the Wild West its name. He also had a Wild West show which helped to create the image of the Wild, Wild West. He was born in 1846 and died in 1917.
705 – 5 Johnny Appleseed: Johnny Appleseed spent his life planting apple seeds across the country. His real name was John Chapman. He created apple orchards in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and Ohio. After 200 years, some of those trees still bear apples. Johnny Appleseed’s dream was for a land where blossoming apple trees were everywhere and no one was hungry. He died in 1845 – it was the only time he was sick in over 70 years.
706 – 1 Great Lakes Collage: The Great Lakes hold one fourth of all of the fresh water in the world! No wonder so much activity revolves around the lakes in this region.
706 – 2 Cow Weather Vane: Travel the roads of this region and you’re sure to find all different breeds of cows especially the dairy cows that Wisconsin is famous for and the cheese made from the milk.
706 – 3 Abe Lincoln Bank: Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States. He was born in 1809 in Kentucky but lived and died in Illinois. In fact his nickname was the Illinois Rail Splitter. He was also more widely known as Honest Abe – a perfect choice for our bank.
706 – 4 States Book: Take a look at a map and see the various shapes created by the outline of each state. Those shapes are the basis for our book. Our first book is all about Ohio.
706 – 5 Cardinal Tile: The state bird of 3 states in this region: Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, this bright crested red bird can’t be missed. They can also be recognized by their shrill song. They love sunflower seeds. Our Cardinal is found on a tile made from beads.
707 – 1 Rush Weaving: Natural rush chair seats are made by weaving a tight pattern from twisted leaves of rush or cattail. We’re using a similar technique with hemp fiber.
707 – 2 Paper Quilt Wall Hanging: Starting with scraps of fabric and leftover clothing, quilting has always been a way to recycle fabric into a new use. Our pattern is an Amish design characterized by stark geometric shapes, black thread and fabric highlighting bold colors.
707 – 3 Jacob’s Ladder: Folk art plays a big part in the culture of Appalachia. Simple wooden toys were often created for children from scraps of wood and cloth. Jacobs ladder is based on a bible story.
707 – 4 Clay Folk Doll: Nothing went to waste, and dolls are often made by hand for young children. This folk doll is a traditional Appalachian design.
707 – 5 Basket Weaving: Another of the basic traditional crafts of these mountain communities was weaving. Baskets could be created for all different purposes and from natural materials found in the surrounding area. Our basket actually can be made from fine hemp or cording or even floss.
708 – 1 Dream Catcher: The Lakota Native American Tribe of the Plains states developed the dream catcher. One day a child was going to kill a spider that was weaving a web. A Native American Woman told the child to leave the spider alone. In return, the spider told the woman he would thank her by weaving a web with a small center that would snag all the bad dreams while the good dreams would filter through and then glide down along the feathers.
708 – 2 On The Range: Buffalo thrived on the Great Plains where at one time 30 million formed the biggest mass of large mammals ever found on the earth. Now the only buffalo are found in preserves. Buffalo are really more accurately called bison.
708 – 3 Quilted Sunflower: The sunflower is the state flower of Kansas. At one time it was considered a weed but in 1903 it was adopted as the state flower and is on the states seal and flag. The sunflower ranks as one of the most commercially valuable flowers. It yields sunflower oil and of course seeds.
708 – 4 Wheat Bookmark: The plains states are known for their production of wheat – especially Kansas. Today, the United States is the world’s third largest producer of wheat thanks to a group of Russian immigrants who settled in Kansas in 1873-4. Wheat is ground and made into flour for baking foods. Durum wheat is used to make pasta. Wheat can be puffed, flaked, or rolled to make breakfast cereals.
708 – 5 Mt. Rushmore: One of the most famous landmarks in the United States is Mt. Rushmore, in the Black Hills of South Dakota. You can find the faces of 4 American presidents: Theodore Roosevelt, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson. Each face is 60 ft. high 500 feet up in the air. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum began drilling into the 5,725-foot mountain in 1927. Creation of the Shrine of Democracy took 14 years and cost $1 million dollars.
709 – 1 Horseshoe: The horseshoe is a symbol of good luck when displayed with the open side up – it holds good fortune. It is a good symbol for the west, as horses play an important part in this regions economy. The west is also home to cowboys and rodeos.
709 – 2 Relief Map: We chose the West to display a relief map of the entire Unites Sates – a relief shows different elevations – so the mountain states were an appropriate place.
709 – 3 Sand Frame: The dry climate of Nevada inspired this sand frame. In fact both the Mojave and Great Basin desert extend into Nevada. Deserts are dry and arid though a common misconception is that they are lifeless and cold. Many plants and animals have adapted to a lack of water. Temperatures can also be very cool at night.
709 -4 All About Me Scrapbook: The study of genealogy or family history is an important part of the Mormon religion, which has a large following in Utah. Genealogy is a big part of scrapbooking. Today this is the fastest growing craft activity in the United States.
709 – 5 Thunder Bird: The thunderbird was one of the spiritual animals for most Native American Tribes. To this day this symbol is found in many designs of the Southwest. The Thunderbird is a large bird that produced thunder when flapping its wings. By opening and closing it’s eyes, Thunderbirds are also known to make lightning.
710 – 1 Cowgirls and Cowboys: A true cowboy’s job was to take care of cattle. His uniform was: a big hat for shade and protection from the rain, a bandanna to protect his neck from sunburn, or over his mouth and nose to keep out dirt, and pointed toe boots to slip easily into the stirrup and high heels to keep his feet from slipping out, chaps or leggings to keep him warm and spurs on his heels to make the horse move.
710 – 2 Friendship Necklace: The Texas motto is friendship. A necklace, which can be cut in half and shared by two friends, illustrates this motto.
710 – 3 Lizard: Lizards are reptiles in the same category as snakes. Most reptiles have 4 legs and 5 toes on each. They have scaly skin; most have mottled color and are carnivores. The Gila Monster is notorious in New Mexico for its venomous bite and large head.
710 – 4 South West Clay Pot: Anasazi people lived in homes that clung to canyon walls or perched on flat top hills. They worked with stone, plaster and sun dried brick. They created richly painted pottery with intricate animal and geometric designs.
710 – 5 Turquoise Jewelry: Arizona and New Mexico supply turquoise. This ornamental gemstone is often used in Native American and Southwest designs combined with silver. Colors range from green blue to sky blue. Working turquoise mines are in New Mexico.
711 – 1 Grape Vine Pot: Vineyards occupy many acres of land in southern California. In fact California is the major source of domestic wine for the Unite States. Agriculture was its main industry until recently when related manufacturing grew. The success of grape growing is related to California’s good soil, long growing season and modern agricultural methods.
711 – 2 Igloo: Igloo is the Inuit word for house. The Eskimos traditionally had three types of houses. A summer house, which was basically a tent, a winter house, which was usually partially dug into the ground and covered with earth; and a snow or ice house. The last was a dome-shaped dwelling constructed of blocks of snow with a low tunnel entrance. Although it can provide adequate protection for weeks in severe cold, it was used almost exclusively as a temporary shelter while traveling.
711 – 3 Painted Can Totem: Native Americans in southern Alaska used an art form called a totem. They are carved from mature cedar trees and raised to represent a family-clan, its accomplishments, its adventures, and stories. A totem pole is the emblem of a family or clan and made as a reminder of its ancestry.
711 – 4 Salmon Jewelry: Visit Alaska for some of the best salmon fishing in the world. Alaska leads the nation in commercial fishing and food processing – canning and freezing are a related industry. Five types of salmon are found in Alaska: King, Sockeye, Pink, Chum and Coho.
711 – 5 Mt. McKinley: The highest mountain peak in the United States and all of North America, is Alaska’s Mt. McKinley, at 20,320 feet. The aurora is caused by particles of solar wind colliding with atmospheric atoms and icons. The atmosphere consists mainly of nitrogen and oxygen. When solar wind hits the atoms, a spectrum of color and light radiates in the northern sky.
712 – 1 Flower Lei: A flower lei has become a symbol of welcome for visitors to Hawaii. Different flowers and colors represent each island: Niihau – white; Kauai – Purple; Oahu – Yellow ; Maui -Pink; Molokai – Green; Lanai – Orange: Kahoolawe – Grey; Big Island of Hawaii – Red.
712 – 2 Bark Cloth: Bark or Tapa cloth was created by Polynesian settlers. The men would cut branches from the paper mulberry tree; the women would peel away the outer bark with shells. The inner bark was soaked in water until soft, and then beaten with wooden mallets until it was as thin as cloth.
712 – 3 Tapa Cloth Mat: Tapa making is a laborious native craft and is actually the same as Bark cloth. For this project we concentrate on the design and colors rather than the material.
712 – 4 Pineapple: Over 1/3 of the worlds pineapples are grown in Hawaii. This tropical fruit is their major agricultural product and a basis for their principal industry – food processing. In history the pineapple was a symbol for welcome.
712 – 5 Coral Reef: Coral reefs are found in tropical oceans near the equator. A reef is a coral community made up of thousands of different organism living together. It is living and grows very slowly – only about 1 inch per hundred years!
712 – 6 Vacation Scrapbook: One of the favorite destinations for travelers from all over the world, is the tropical paradise of Hawaii. This scrapbook page is for your photos whether you actually visit this beautiful place or just imagine it.
713 – 1 Clay Flag: What could be more patriotic than Old Glory – the ”nickname” for the American Flag. Captain Stephen Driver coined the name in 1831. As he was leaving on one of his many voyages some friends presented him with a flag of twenty-four stars. As the banner opened to the ocean breeze for the first time, he exclaimed “Old Glory!” After returning home he cherished the flag, many tried to destroy it during the Civil War, but Captain Driver protected it always.
713 – 2 Wood Fire Crackers: Celebrate our countries birthday on July 4th with a sizzling craft.
713 – 3 Let Freedom Ring: The American Eagle is the symbol of America for his strength and nobility.
713 – 4 Red, White and Blue Frame: Picture your favorite American in an easy to make clay frame.
713 – 5 All American Tote: Red, White and Blue is the basis for this Americana design for saving notes, cards and other papers.
Series 600
601 – 1 Cobra Pen Topper: The asp or Egyptian cobra is the smallest and most common type of cobra. Cobras were often the subject for jewelry and decorative items in ancient Egypt.
601 – 2 Hieroglyphics: This is a form of picture writing. Hieroglyphics are small pictures which represent words, actions or ideas. There were over 700 letters but no vowels.
601 – 3 Collar and Cuffs: Jewelry was an important part of the dress of ancient Egypt. Particularly the nobility adorned themselves with beautiful symmetrical collars of metal and precious stones, and beautiful bangles and cuffs.
601 – 4 Potpourri Mummy: Egypt is known for both its pyramids, the final resting place for those that have died, and also for their means of preserving bodies as mummies. The body was wrapped in strips of cloth, and anointed with various oils and scents.
601 – 5 Papyrus Fan: The word “paper’ derives from the word papyrus. Papyrus is a triangular reed that grows along the bank of the Nile. Egyptians cut the reeds and laid them side-by-side. Then a second layer was placed over the top at right angles. This was then placed between fabric, and pressed between stones for about 6 days.
Quick Idea: Egyptian Print: All Egyptian art has the same style and follows special rules. One of the rules is called “frontalism”. This is where the head is always shown in profile, but the body is seen from the front.
602 – 1 Olive Wreath: Olive wreaths were a prize in the original Olympics. The first Olympic games were held in 776 B.C.
602 – 2 Archimedes and Mathematical Solids: Archimedes lived from 287-212 B.C. Born in Sicily and educated in Egypt, he was the most well known Greek mathematician. He is known for his studies of shapes.
602 – 3 Greek Pots: Many different styles of ceramic pots were used in Ancient Greece. From storage to drinking, they were decorated in many different colors with unique designs. The amphora shape is the traditional tall, handled pot and the klix is a wider bowl-shaped pot with a pedestal.
602 – 4 Column Chalkboard: The Doric, Ionic and Corinthian columns were the most common styles of architectural columns used in ancient Greece. Doric are the plainest and have no base. Ionic columns have a circular base and a shallow top with scrolls, and Corinthian are the most elaborate with a carved leave design at the top.
602 – 5 Tragedy Comedy Mask: These masks are the symbol for theater and represent masks worn during the golden age around 500-300 B.C. This was the first time that theater as we know it was written and performed. Since all the actors were male, and they all played many different roles, they wore masks to show their different characters or moods.
Quick Idea: Mosaic stones: Mosaics are a part of all ancient civilizations. Tiny squares of different colors of stones were fitted together to form designs and pictures.
603 – 1 Vellum Journal: Books were made of papyrus scrolls. Later parchment or vellum, a sheer paper, was used to record events, write letters and make books.
603 – 2 Samian Ware Tile: Many homes were decorated with pottery wall decorations called reliefs. Many different types of clay were used depending on the area. One style was called Samian ware, a red clay pottery popular after AD 100.
603 – 3 Aqueducts: The land which surrounded Rome was abundant with springs. This water was channeled into the city of Rome through the use of aqueducts. Large cisterns held the water at the end of the aqueducts, and were used for baths and fountains.
603 – 4 Mosaic Frame: Originating in Greece, the Romans became famous for their mosaics. Bits of glass and stone were arranged to form designs for jewelry, vases and other art forms.
603 – 5 Marine Mosaic Tile: Because of the proximity to water, marine or sea themes were an important design element in Ancient Rome.
Quick Idea: Roman Numeral Wrap Up: Various column styles, which originated in Greece, were also popular in Rome. The more decorated style was Corinthian which had the shape of leaves carved in the top.
604 – 1 Headdress: Mayans wore colorful headdresses for ceremonies. They prized the long blue green tail feathers of the bird, quetzel whoc, and used them to embellish their headdresses.
604 – 2 Mayan Pot: Mayans developed many traditional designs for pots and containers made from clay in the Yucatan peninsula. Natural colors, such as sand, characterized these pots, as well as textured designs.
604 – 3 Stela: A Mayan Stela is a monument carved in stone commemorating significant historic people and events. They are similar to a Native American Totem poles.
604 – 4 Stepped Frame: The Mayans built stepped pyramids with stairways leading to temples at the top. Usually they were built of limestone and were often painted red.
604 – 5 Astronomy Wall Hanging: Mayans developed a calendar system based on the movement of the moon and stars. They were known for their astronomy skills.
Quick Idea: Yarn Shirt: Mayans were also known for their weaving skills. This traditional shirt incorporates texture and color for a traditional Mayan design.
605 – 1 Coins: Coins were a means of trading, and were made from various metals. Often Runic symbols were embossed into the surface.
605 – 2 Weathervane: Carved weather vanes were mounted on the front of long boats as a navigational aid. Many times they were in the shape of a sea animal.
605 – 3 Viking Longboat: The Vikings sailed in ships known as longboats. They were known for their sleek and stylish look. These ocean going vessels were propelled by sails and oars.
605 – 4 Helmet: Defensive equipment, such as helmets, were very important since the Vikings often fought hand to hand. Helmet design varied from a simple iron mask with a riveted nose guard to more elaborate styles.
605 – 5 Runic Bracelet: Runic writings were carved in stone, bone, horn wood, and on metal and coins. These inscriptions often contained information about a person, such as their voyages, family, wealth and talents. The word “rune” comes from a Gothic word meaning secrets.
Quick Idea: Metal Bracelet: Vikings were known for using varied types of metals and also for wearing jewelry – both women and men.
606 – 1 Bunraku: This is a type of Japanese puppet theater. It developed from storytelling to a musical form in the 16th century. Bunraku stories are usually about Japanese myths and folk tales. Puppet operators dressed in black so they would not be seen against a black background, and operated large puppets.
606 – 2 Pagoda Frame: The Shitennoji Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple of Japan built in 593. The temple guard statues stand in fighting position at the opening of the pagoda. Pagodas have a traditional style and roof design.
606 – 3 Bonsai: Although Bonsai first appeared in China, it was not until the 1100’s in Japan that the art of Bonsai was developed. Bonsai are miniature or dwarf potted trees that are trimmed and shaped to a special design.
606 – 4 Tea Lights: Paper lanterns have been used in Japanese homes and festivals for centuries. Crafted of bamboo and paper, they come in all shapes and sizes.
606 – 5 Sand Garden: For centuries, Japanese Zen masters have cultivated gardens of harmoniously arranged rocks and white raked sand. These quiet gardens are designed for peaceful thinking.
Quick Idea: Paper Fan: Fans are both useful and symbolic. The colors and how the fans are held have a special meaning.
607 – 1 Windmill: Water wheels were developed in the 12th century and changed the way work was completed.
607 -2 Battle Shield: Knights represented the feudal system. Metal was boiled in wax to form a shield with an embossed design.
607 – 3 Tournament Flag: Competitive events, including jousting were often held between castles. Flags with the crests of the families or castles were carried to identify the group in tournaments. Heraldry designs also identified friends and enemies in battles.
607 – 4 Shop Sign: The Middle Ages was the time of the Craftsman. Shop owners developed signs, many of embossed wood, to identify their craft. To be a citizen, you had to be in 1 of the 21 useful trades.
607 – 5 Faux Marble Heraldry Journal: Heraldry developed because knights in armour were difficult to recognize as friend or enemy. Families were identified by their coat of arms.
Quick Idea: 3D Decoder Glasses: The first dual eyeglass lenses mounted in frames appeared about 1285 in Italy.
608 – 1 Milano Keys: Milano silversmiths were known for their intricate lock and key designs.
608 – 2 Venetian Glass: The Fleur de lis or lily is the city emblem of Florence where the Medici family was a patron of the arts and ruled the city. Venetian glass came to prominence during the Middle Ages and continued during the rebirth of the arts during the Renaissance.
608 – 3 Book Mark: The printing press was developed by Johann Gutenberg in 1450. It made the mass production of books possible. This is often considered one of the inventions that began the Renaissance.
608 – 4 Landscape: Many times symbols existed in the backgrounds of famous landscapes of the renaissance. Landscapes were scenes of country life that became popular during the 15th century as wealthy families went to the countryside for vacation.
608 – 5 Millifiori: This term means “thousands of flowers.” It is another name for mosaic beads where designs and colors are fused together.
Quick Idea: Labyrinth Pendant: A labyrinth is a maze design which was used as a pattern on the floors of many cathedrals. The purpose was to travel the path of the maze as a searching journey to your goal at the center of the maze.
609 – 1 Terra Cotta Picture Frame: Terra Cotta was used extensively in China. This project is in honor of the Terra Cotta Soldiers of the tomb of the emperor of the Qin Dynasty 221-206 B.C. Chinese Terra Cotta vases have been discovered dating to as early as 3000 B.C.
609 – 2 Abacus: An abacus is a calculating tool made of rows of beads on a rod. It was invented some time in the second century B.C., but the first record was a sketch in the 14th century during the Yuan Dynasty.
609 – 3 Foam Dragon: The dragon represents wisdom and kind, power in the Chinese culture. He is the imperial symbol of China though the origin is unknown.
609 – 4 Tetrahedron Kite: The Chinese were the first people to ever make and fly kites. Some were designed as animals and many were very large. National kite flying day in China is in April.
609 – 5 Symbolic Book Cover: Chinese Calligraphy is an art form over 2000 years old that remains basically unchanged. Lines and brush strokes represent words and letters.
Quick Idea: Emperor’s Coin: This pendant is a replica of a coin from the Ming Dynasty.
610 – 1 Tag Bag: Treasured items were often carried in animal skin bags. This bag also doubles as a “memo” pad.
610 – 2 Wampum Necklace: The color of the beads symbolized different things: White for health, peace and riches; and purple for sympathy and sorrow. Dark purple was the most valuable. Wampum beads were also traded as currency.
610 – 3 Owner Stick: When Native American families gathered firewood or food, they marked the pile they had collected with an owner stick or possession stick.
610 – 4 Cork Painting: Native Americans developed many characteristic designs which covered their homes and clothing. Cork reminds us of the textured rawhide surfaces used in traditional Native American painting.
610 – 5 Navaho Hogan Box: the Navaho Hogan was an eight-sided structure made of logs. The female Hogan was the family home where children were raised, and the smaller structure, where men met, was the male Hogan. The door of the Hogan always faced east to meet the rising sun.
Quick Project: Eraser Clay Totem: Totems are symbols of Native American tribes and often feature wildlife creatures known for specific traits.
611 – 1 Silver Tray: Almost every colonial town had a silversmith who made candlesticks, platters and bowls. Intricate designs were cut into the metal by engraving.
611 – 2 Log Cabin Quilt: Not a scrap of fabric was thrown away in Colonial America, and patchwork was a common design. Log cabin is a particular pattern which looked like stacked logs.
611 – 3 Rugs: Apples are a traditional colonial design. Only wealthy people had rugs – others made rugs of painted canvas from ship’s sails.
611 – 4 Welcome Bandbox: Bandboxes were used to store the stiff collars worn by the colonists. This box uses decoupage which started with scraps of paper – which were never discarded.
611 – 5 Wired Candle Holder: In colonial times, candleholders were forged in metal. A special kind was one made with spirals, called a courting candle. As the candle burned down to the spirals it reminded the suitor it was time to leave.
Quick Project: Colonial America was known for simple toys and decorative woodcarvings. This tassel holder was a way to add a decorative touch to the home using left over yarn scraps.
612 – 1 Zoetrope: A zoetrope was a revolving drum with slits on the side. On the inside of the drum was a flexible card containing a sequence of 20-30 pictures. As you turned the drum and looked through the slits, it appeared as if the object was moving. This was an early form of motion pictures.
612 – 2 Morse Code: Samuel Morse developed the electromagnetic telegraph and the electronic alphabet known as Morse Code. On May 24, 1844, Morse sent his first telegraph message.
612 – 3 Wedgewood: Josiah Wedgewood (1730-1795) revolutionized the production and sale of pottery. Inspired by Chinaware, Wedgewood was first made during the industrialization of factories using waterwheels to turn machines.
612 – 4 Cotton Bags: The beginning of the Industrial Revolution was based on the cotton industry and many of the inventions were made for manufacturing and producing cotton.
612 – 5 Pointillism: Part of the Industrial Revolution also involved a revolution of Art forms. Pointillism and George Seurat were an important part of the Neo-Impressionist movement.
Quick Project: Princess Mirror: Modern day mirror making changed with the invention of a new process in 1835.
613 – 1 Star Travel Game: Steam Engines and railroads were a big factor in the industrialization of Europe and America. Transportation helped push the world to a time where power driven machinery changed the face of manufacturing.
613 – 2 Art Deco Bulletin Board: Art Deco was invented in 1935. One of the most famous examples of Art Deco architecture is the Empire State Building in New York.
613 – 3 Teddy Bear: In 1902, President Teddy Roosevelt lent his name to a plush bear. A story was published about how he did not shoot a bear cub because it could not defend itself. The teddy bear turned 100 years old in 2002.
613 – 4 Old Glory Fresco: A fresco is a painting on a wall. The fresco technique involves painting on wet plaster. As the plaster dries it encases the color, and the pigments form a permanent bond with the wall. This project involves the same look. The 50th state of the United States was admitted into the union in 1959.
613 – 5 Delta Airplane: Wilbur and Orville Wright made their historic first flight in 1903.
Quick Project: Hologram Bracelet: Denis Gabor invented holography in 1947. He also was awarded the Nobel Prize for physics in 1971.
Series 500
501 – 1 Water Bottle Holder: You can get thirsty hiking in the woods; always carry this foam water bottle holder.
501 – 2 Safety Kit: A clear acrylic box holds first aid supplies. Safety first!
501 – 3 Torch: Flashlights are fun, but this torch from a metal can will light up a nighttime hike – just be careful!
501 – 4 Sit Upon: Carry your own chair made from foil and paper.
501 – 5 Soap: One of the best and worst parts of camp is no showers! Every once in a while you might want to clean up with your own hand made soap.
502 – 1 Friendship Tree: Introduce your friends to each other with this tree made from wire and wood shapes.
502 – 2 Friendship Card: Don’t lose touch with your friends from home, or your new friends from camp with a paper die cut card.
502 – 3 Best Friends Frame: Twin pictures are found in a papier-mache frame covered with foil and stickers.
502 – 4 Picture Pillow: Keep photos of your special friends and family right with you, in a picture pillow with vinyl pockets.
502 – 5 Friendship Bracelets: Use beads and lacing for colorful bracelets to wear and give. You’ll want to make them again and again!
503 – 1 Eyes Like A Hawk: Make a model of this majestic bird using foam and Styrofoam.
503 – 2 Bear Wind Chime: Hope you don’t see any bears, unless it’s a wind chime bear made from clay pots and wood parts.
503 – 3 Snake Mosaic Shirt: This painted snake design will slither across your shirt.
503 – 4 Feather Pen: Use oil pastels to simulate the look and texture of a bird’s feather and turn it into a pen.
503 – 5 Wile Bird Plant Strokes: Foam and sticks make these fun plant stakes showing all of the birds of the wild, including some just from your imagination.
504 – 1 Forest Totem: Egg cartons and paint are the form for a Native American Totem.
504 – 2 Animal Print Frame: Simulate animal fur using oil pastels on a paper frame.
504 – 3 Moose Mobile: This tin can mobile would be at home in your cabin or on the back porch.
504 – 4 Petroglyphs: Pictures from Native American civilizations can have many meanings, create your own message with Styrofoam, paint and tissue.
504 – 5 Forest Fossil: You can make your own fossils using Styrofoam and oil pastels.
505 – 1 Constellations: Create models of constellations from foil.
505 – 2 Stars Mobile: This mobile actually glows in the dark, with stars and metallic embellishments.
505 – 3 Rocket to ?: Take a trip to the sky in your own rocket made from Styrofoam.
505 – 4 Constellation Wheel: Is that the Big Dipper? Your paper constellation finder will help you find out. And then make a great constellation game.
505 – 5 Sun/Moon Windsock: This paper windsock is at home from day to night.
506 – 1 Hopscotch: You can play hopscotch any time with a painted board.
506 – 2 Make Your Own Game Board: Use paper and 3D die cuts to make a game board. Now it’s time to make up your own rules!
506 – 3 Bubble Wand: Inside or out, you’ll love making a unique bubble wand.
506 – 4 Tabletop Bowling: Styrofoam pins make for a soft landing with this indoor bowling game.
506 – 5 Travel Game Bag: The foam board turns into it’s own carrying case.
507 – 1 Talking Stick: It’s your turn to talk if you’re holding the painted stick.
507 – 2 Scary Puppet: What’s a campfire without a good monster story? Make a puppet to help you tell your tale.
507 – 3 Make Your Own Disguise: Things have a way of looking scarier in the dark – especially when you when you paint your face.
507 – 4 Story Puppets: The characters from your stories come to life with die cut paper puppets in all shapes and sizes.
507 – 5 Marshmallow People: Make these non-edible smore’s people from pom pom marshmallows.
508 – 1 Candle Cover: Butterflies decorate this beautiful paper and glass cover for a candle.
508 – 2 Flower Plant Hanger: Save a 2-liter bottle to make a painted plant holder of your favorite flower.
508 – 3 Squirrel and Nuts Pillow: This clever paper pillow is filled with moss and grass from outside, but no acorns!
508 – 4 Butterfly Mobile: Die cut paper makes a delicate mobile of the most beautiful butterflies.
508 – 5 Dimensional Flower Bag: Don’t pick the flowers! Make your own from paper and decorative scissors.
509 – 1 Metallic Snail: This metallic foil snail is a lot flashier than his real life counterpart.
509 – 2 Flip Flops: Keep your feet dry with a pair of flip-flops decorated with beads and foam.
509 – 3 Frog Marionette: If only frogs could move like this painted, Styrofoam model.
509 – 4 Twig Box: Gather twigs to make a keepsake box to keep the treasures you find along the banks.
509 – 5 Turtle: This acrylic and foam turtle is a surprise keeper.
510 – 1 Firefly Lantern: Make your own firefly lantern from a tin can and plastic canvas.
510 – 2 Wired Bugs: These wire and bead bugs are more at home pinned to your jacket than buzzing around.
510 – 3 Butterfly Net: You might even find a rare and beautiful butterfly with this net; just be sure to let him go!
510 – 4 Dragonfly: It’s a good thing dragonflies aren’t this big! Metallic foil and Styrofoam create this giant bug.
510 – 5 Ladybug Pics: Peak behind the wings of this paper lady bug for a surprise.
511 – 1 Key Chains: You have to learn how to use lacing at camp!
511 – 2 Hamburger: Everyone talks about camp food, but we did something about it, with a fun Styrofoam and foam hamburger.
511 – 3 ABC Pins: Make a wire and bead initial pin for you and all of your friends.
511 – 4 Visor: Design and create your own leather visor and matching bracelet in the craft cabin.
511 – 5 World’s Best ____!: Here’s your chance to let everyone know about you. Make your own paper award: from “Best camper” to “Best joke teller”. Tell us about your hidden talents.
512 – 1 Postcards from Camp: Use stencils and stamps to make your own postcards.
512 – 2 Camp Journal: Write your thoughts and reflections on the pages of your own decorated journal.
512 – 3 Keepsake Box: Store your treasures in a unique wood box.
512 – 4 Pop-Up Page: The secret to a great card is a die cut pop up.
512 – 5 Mini Memories: Big memories little book; capture your thoughts before and after camp.
513 -1 Sleeping Bag Pillow: This painted pillow is also a carry-all for clothes and your sleeping bag.
513 – 2 Door Hanger: Keep out! Or maybe Come On In! What’s the message on your foam door hanger?
513 – 3 Camp Rug: The ground can get pretty cold without a warm, painted rug by the side of your bed.
513 – 4 Chenille Flowers: Pipe cleaners are a camp staple, but here’s a new design. Camp Job Chart: To keep things running smoothly, every one needs to do their part. This chart will keep you organized at home, camp or school.
513 – 5 Job Chart: Lets get organized at camp and at home and school.
Series 400
401 – 1 Dilly Bag and Message Stick: Aborigine women wove bags from grasses to carry fish and other foods. Men and boys carried sticks with carved designs to other territories to deliver messages. An identifying mark, such as a tribal design was carved into the stick. Our bag is made from clay and oil pastels.
401 -2 Pocket Pals: On a visit to the Outback, you’re sure to see a Marsupial; these animals carry their young in a front pocket. Kangaroos are just one example. This project is a fun way to remember this important attribute of a marsupial while making a fun fabric purse for your self.
401 – 3 Aboriginal Oil Pastel: Aborigine paintings were originally painted in the sand and only lasted until the wind blew. This art form employs a basic set of symbols, such as dots, concentric circles and curved and straight lines. All are based on the Aboriginal religion, the “Dreaming”. Create your own oil pastel in this unique and ageless style.
401 – 4 Aboriginal Punched Bolo Tie: Punched paper dots are the paint for this original bolo tie. Learn some of the Aboriginal symbols like: concentric circles for campsites or waterholes; straight lines for routes between places; wavy lines for rain or water; ”U” shapes for sitting people, and tracks for animal footprints. Also, animals are shown from above, plants are stylized; and dotted backgrounds are traditional.
401 – 5 Crocodile Candles: Crocodiles are one of the most well known inhabitants of the Outback. Create and decorate a unique candle to light your way on a dark trek into the wilderness.
HANDS ON Project: Kids helping other kids through their crafts.
402 – 1 Toucan Candy Holder: All 37 species of Toucans are found living in the canopy layers of the rain forests of South America. Create this foam model of the Toco Toucan whose bill can be 7 ½” long in the wild.
402 – 2 Leaf Print Floor Cloth: Trees and plants of the rain forest have unique shapes and patterns. Utilize them to create an artistic floor cloth.
402 – 3 Feathered Mask: Rainforest art reflects the environment and is usually functional. Masks play an important part because they are used in ceremonial rituals. They represent animals and spirits. Feathers have their own significance. This oil pastel mask evokes the colors and feather story of rainforest masks.
402 – 4 Woven Wall Hanging: Bamboo and rattan (made from lianas or climbing vines) are some of the products of the rainforest. This project utilizes paper and paint to simulate the texture and design of a rattan wall hanging.
402 – 5 Palm Tree: Palms are one of the trees of the “Understory” layer of vegetation in the rainforest. This tree is totally made from paper with a surprise element – the coconuts are made from coffee grounds which is another of the key products of the rainforest.
HANDS ON Project: Kids helping other kids through their crafts.
403 – 1 Elephant Family: Both the African and Asian elephant are on the endangered animal list. This pompom and chenille elephant is of the Asian family characterized by smaller ears, a hump-shaped back, and very short tusks.
403 – 2 Endangered Animal Banner: Sorry to say, there are thousands of animals on the endangered list. Create a felt banner to remind you to help fight to save “Our Animal Friends.”
403 – 3 Whooping Crane: This bird is perhaps the best-known endangered species in North America (and also the tallest at about 5 ft). Snow white with black wing tips, it has a long neck, a dark and pointed bill and long thin legs. It is the only bird that flies with its neck straight out and legs trailing. You’ll be making a wacky walking or flying version of this beautiful bird from Styrofoam.
403 – 4 Pull Toy: Learn about another group of endangered animals with a fun way to show some of their characteristics. Die cut paper is an easy and inexpensive base to our project.
403 – 5 Endangered Animal Flip Book: Create your own paper book of different endangered animals. We researched and chose 10 for our book including the whale, tortoise, sea otter, black rhino and walrus. You’ll create a matching game in your book as you learn about these animals.
404 – 1 Seed Greeting Card: Make a greeting card that will actually blossom into a bouquet of flowers. Make your own paper embedded with seeds that you can actually plant in soil. Water it and watch it grow.
404 – 2 Flower Whirligig: Make a fanciful wooden windmill to decorate your backyard garden. The wind has a very important role in pollination of flowers and transporting seeds. Flowers and their beautiful appearance actually evolved to attract bees for pollination.
404 – 3 Bumble Bee Mobile: Take a buzz through the garden with a honeybee mobile. Did you know that bees can fly 22 miles an hour, and their wings beat 180 beats per second? You’ll really need to be “buzzing” to keep up with them. Bees unwittingly carry pollen on their back legs from flower to flower so that the plant can produce seeds for the next crop.
404 – 4 Clothespin Bugs: Wire, beads and clothespins are all you need to create 3 examples of insects: the dragonfly, grasshopper and butterfly. The dragonfly actually spends most of its life underwater, but is actually one of the best flyers of the insect world. The dragonfly is a vital part of the ecosystem of a pond. While dragonflies are known to be beneficial, grasshoppers are known as pests and destroyers of crops. Lastly, the butterfly is our most beautiful insect and common to the garden.
404 – 5 Painted Watering Can: You can’t have a garden without water! Plants need this nourishment for growth. Create a fun design using special paint on a metal watering can.
HANDS ON Project: Kids helping other kids through their crafts.
405 – 1 Desert Cactus: Cactus are found only in North American deserts. Styrofoam and toothpicks are the basis for this cactus model that needs even less water that the real thing.
405 – 2 Coral Snake: The colorful coral snake is found in the southern desert region of the United States. It’s small but very poisonous. Make his brightly colored rings with coiled strips of foam.
405 – 3 Gemstones: Gemstones might seem like an unlikely part of the desert, but actually much of the world’s store of diamonds, silver, gold, bauxite, iron and copper is mined in desert regions. Use interesting paper shapes to create the facets of these gemstones.
405 – 4 Sand Painted Dunes: When you think of desert, sand is the first thing that comes to mind. Actually, rocks are just as big a part of the landscape. We use colored sand to create a desert landscape in the colors of the Southwest.
405 – 5 Lizard: Gila monsters, collared lizards and scorpions are some of the nocturnal animals common to the desert. Create a colorful, patterned paper lizard to brighten up the desert landscape. Gila Monsters are not quite as colorful as our model, but they have a similar body type with a stout body, short legs and a short, fat tail.
HANDS ON Project: Kids helping other kids through their crafts.
406 – 1 Scarecrow: One of the farmer’s friends, scarecrows are still used to scare away birds that eat the seeds and flowers of certain plants. Our scarecrow has an interesting face and fun clothes.
406 – 2 Aerial Farm Patterns: The view from above is one of the most fascinating looks at a farm. Crops are planted in uniform rows that create an interesting geometric pattern. Use paper and pastels to make your own layout.
406 – 3 Farm Puppets: Cows, pigs, horses – these are some of the barnyard animals important to farm life. Make 2 kinds of paper puppets for a fun look at farm animals.
406 – 4 Piggy Bank: Farms aren’t complete without pigs, notorious for being a very messy animal. Our pig is actually very clean, and a perfect bank for storing loose change.
406 – 5 Hauling Beans: Watch bean seeds germinate before your eyes! In just 1-2 days you can see the bean sprout. The root starts down in search of food, while the plumule, or the embryo leaves shoot upward in search of sunshine.
HANDS ON Project: Kids helping other kids through their crafts.
407 – 1 Pipe Cleaner Dinosaur: Twist your way to dinosaur models made from chenille.
407 – 2 Wooly Mammoth: The modern day elephant is actually a descendent of the wooly mammoth which roamed the earth in prehistoric times. You’ll love this furry creature that definitely looks cuter in our miniature size and a lot less ferocious than his real life counterpart.
407 – 3 Fossil Necklace: Fossils are created by marks left when plants and animals die and leave their imprint on the ground which then hardens into rock. You can also create your own fossil from clay and use it to string an interesting necklace.
407 – 4 Dinosaur Diorama: Brontosaurus, T-Rex, Triceratops – they’re all here as a paper diorama. Now do your research and actually determine which dinosaurs existed at the same times so that your box is an accurate portrayal of prehistoric times.
407 – 5 Dinosaur Soaps: It’s hard to resist adding a fun project to clean up. Make decorative soaps in a fun look at dinosaurs.
HANDS ON Project: Kids helping other kids through their crafts.
408 – 1 Footprint Rug: Lets go tracking for forest animals like the white tailed deer, squirrel and maybe a wolf. Create a rug using carpet scraps and paint showing various animal prints.
408 – 2 Leaf Stamped Stationary: Oak, hickory, maples – which tree leaf will you choose for your stationary? Learn an easy technique to create your own stationary design from a leaf.
408 – 3 Forest Creature Piñata: Take a fun look at forest creatures with an owl piñata created from a paper bag. The bag shape is perfect for the owl, since they can’t actually move their eyes and need to move their entire head to see. Their face is actually a flat disc with feathers at the edge to catch the slightest sound and aim the noise at their ears.
408 – 4 Enchanted Forest: Discover another use for paper bags as you create treasure trees for an enchanted forest. Glitter and beads and even some traditional leaves complete your project.
408 – 5 Rubbings Journal: Hardwood leaves are the basis for interesting rubbings and a journal to record your travels. Oil pastels and wire complement your journal.
409 – 1 Leis: A traditional sign of welcome made from the blooms of various island flowers, your tropical lei will never wilt when it is constructed of paper and beads.
409 – 2 Frogs and Footprints: About 4/5ths of all of the frog and toad species live in sub- tropical rain forests. They like the warmth and dampness. Many of these frogs have some special characteristic, like the Costa Rica Flying Frogs which are named because of the way they “fly” from tree to tree; Green Tree frogs which look like a bud on a branch, and many more. Choose a special trait to give your frog as you paint him across a shirt.
409 – 3 Peacock: One of the most beautiful birds in the world, peacocks are actually a native of India and Ceylon, but have been introduced to most corners of the world. The island temperature seems to suit them! The male peacock has the beautiful blue feathers. Use oil pastels to create his feathers.
409 – 4 Milk Jug Mask: Tropical paradises are often homes to unique cultures where ceremony is an important part of their tradition. Masks are an important part of this functional craft, but ours is even more useful since we use recycled milk jugs as the base to our mask.
409 – 5 Fuzzy Parrot: There are over 300 species of parrots. Make a scarlet macaw of chenille and Styrofoam. This beautiful parrot is declining in numbers due to the destruction of the rainforest. It is native to Mexico, South America and Central America.
410 – 1 Sand Sculpture: This unique 3D sand sculpture conjures up all of the popular images of the beach – from playing in the water to beach umbrellas and ocean creatures.
410 – 2 Sand Cast Sea Treasures: Learn to cast your own seashell treasures and add a little glitz to bring out their true beauty.
410 – 3 Fish Abstract: This exotic mobile uses varied techniques to create a fish collage from netting, beads and lace. You can even incorporate bits of shells and driftwood from a long beach walk.
410 – 4 Paper Bag Dragon: Let’s go fly a kite – a paper bag dragon perfect for catching the wind at the beach. When you’re not at the beach, it would also be the ideal highlight to a Chinese New Year celebration.
410 – 5 Sand Castle: This is one sand castle that won’t be washed away by the tide! Real sand, glue, Styrofoam and paper rolls are all you need.
411 – 1 Just floating Along: There are actually 2 types of icebergs: tabular or flat tops, and glacier which have a higher area above water. In both cases, most of the iceberg is actually below the water. Only 1/8 is above the surface! Watch some penguins having fun on the surface of an Antarctic tabular iceberg.
411 – 2 Inukshuk: Inukshuk are small piles of stones arranged in the likeness of a person. The Inuit people used them as trail markers indicating safe passage. Our stones are actually made of Styrofoam and very light weight.
411 – 3 Sparkling Snowflakes: We all know that no 2 snowflakes are alike! Create your own design with sparkling highlights made from glue.
411 – 4 Arctic and Antarctic Bookmark Magnets: Some of the inhabitants of the Arctic have come in from the cold as a paper bookmark. You’ll never lose your place with this unique method involving magnets.
411 – 5 Polar Bears: What’s white and fuzzy, but not really cuddly? A polar bear! Just remember these are real bears that grow to over 10 feet long, and males weigh up to 1300 pounds. Our polar bear design is made from paint and is definitely more of the cuddly type.
412 – 1 Bleach Bottle Fish: You might not see this exact fish along the reef, but you will see the same bright colors in many of the fish of the coral reef. Crepe paper and a bleach bottle are what you need.
412 – 2 Creeping Crab: Crabs are remarkable creatures that hide from their predators in the crevices of the coral reef. Our crab takes a fun look at some of the crab’s physical characteristics.
412 – 3 Fish Spiral Mobile: A spiral mobile is a unique technique to display examples of fish inhabiting the coral reef. There are so many different species of fish on the reef because of the complexity of the ecosystem providing so many ways for fish to feed and hunt.
412 – 4 Sea Anemone Bouquet: These unique creatures are often attached to rocks or coral. They look a lot like bunches of the pink and purple petals of the anemone wild flower. The petals are really arms or tentacles to capture food.
412 – 5 Sea Turtles: These creatures frequent the warm water of the coral reef. The sea turtle is often green with a large, streamlined shell, and a head and limbs that don’t retract into its shell. Our turtle shell is actually a clay pot and a little cuter than most sea turtles you’d see in the wild.
413 – 1 Embossed Foil Sun: What could be more important to life on earth than the sun? This foil and foam craft is a beautiful tribute to the sun.
413 – 2 Sundial: Telling time is easy, even without a watch if you have our outdoor foam sundial. Ancient civilizations used this method of watching shadows to determine the time of day.
413 – 3 Mother Earth Suet Holder: One of the “duties” of Mother Earth is to provide food for the wildlife of the world. Our wire holder will feed wildlife in your own backyard.
413 – 4 Earth Symbols: Make beaded symbols of the earth, stars and planets with a simple iron-on technique.
413 – 5 Seed and Salt Bucket: Create a useful bucket to store both seeds for the birds, and salt for icy sidewalks.
