It’s definitely summer here in Central Texas!  We’re getting ready for July 4th celebrations with some fun Red, White, and Blue decorations.

Here’s one of our participants showing off what we made: 3D Paper Stars, and Doorknob Wreaths!

We made the 3D Stars using a template (found here: http://www.hopefish.co.uk/how-to/how-to-for-crafts/3-d-three-dimensional-christmas-stars.html) printed onto cardstock and decorated with markers.  To make one yourself you’ll also need:

• scissors to cut out the initial shape,
• a ruler to help crease the fold lines, and
• tape to help the final piece hold its shape.

If you’d like to hang up your star for display, you’ll also need a small hole punch and some ribbon.

First, decorate the blank side of the star however you like.  (We modeled a Stars and Stripes design, though our participants were encouraged to be creative.)

Then, flip it over to the lined side and crease all of the lines (using the ruler to help keep the creases straight).  If you’re going to hang up the star, punch through the holes at the top.

With the lined side facing you, fold along the lines so that the long lines go out and away from you, and the short lines come toward you.  The center point will also move out and away from you.

Fold the edge flaps together and tape them.  Run a ribbon through the holes and hang up your star for all to see!

The Doorknob Wreaths we made out of snack-sized Styrofoam plates and plastic tablecloths cut into strips.  Kaye says she’s used crepe paper for the strips in the past, but that the plastic tablecloth is easier to use for participants with fine-motor difficulties.

Simply cut the center out of the plate and tie the plastic strips around the edge in whatever pattern you like.  Very simple but the end result is quite festive!

Of course these could easily be customized for any holiday or celebration, using whatever colors you like.  I think they would make a nice garland if you strung a bunch together!

Happy Creating!