Most of the handmade items that I own are made with stitches, lovingly linked together to create something beautiful and unique, just for me. For a kid, it can be hard to imagine how something so tiny can add up to a scarf or a new shirt, but a quick sewing lesson can illuminate the process. And, seeing as Valentine's Day is just around the corner. . .
. . . we thought we'd make Valentines that are actually sewing practice cards. Perfect for taking those first early steps toward working with your hands. . .
. . . or just a nice way to share your love in glowing lights. . .
. . . these valentines can be made from a bit of scrap paper and string. . .
. . . or, if you prefer, a few more things. . .
. . . but the message is resoundingly clear: everything handmade comes from the heart.
Sew Your Love Valentines
Materials:
- Scrap paper
- Colorful card stock or index cards
- A cork triviet from the kitchen (a piece of thick felt or foam core would do as well)
- Pencil
- Eraser
Optional additional materials:
- Bakers Twine in different colors
- Sealing wax and stamps for envelopes
- "X" and "O" stamp kit
- Medieval writing set (for old addressing your envelopes with style)
- Crayons
- Watercolors
Instructions:
Ask your kids to select the color of card stock they'd like to use for their first card. If they can read and write already, ask them to write a simple phrase on the card lightly in pencil. If they can't write yet, help them put down what they would like to say.
Then, with a large sewing needle (big enough for yarn or string), place the card on the cork and ask them to begin poking holes along the lines of their letters. Try to make the distances as uniform as possible.
When all the holes are poked, use your eraser to remove the marks on the paper.
Select a thread that is a contrasting color and help your kiddo begin sewing the words, making sure the connections between letters are on the back side. You may need to add an extra hole here or there to make this possible as you are sewing. To do this simply extend the letters by one hole.
To make "glowing cards" follow the same process, but leave the sewing for the recipient, or just type/write a simple note that tells them to hold it up to the light to enjoy the full effect.
To make a tiny heart garland, connect hand cut paper hearts with a bit of bakers twine and pop in an envelope with a sweet note. These mini paper garlands are a sweet addition to a desk, or any small place where someone might need a little handmade love.
Embellish your cards with the optional materials above, and try out these other fun ways to leave love notes:
Passing Notes: Tiny Secret Messages
xox!
~ Sarah
*Last time in Crafts and Activities: February Fun
