Free Little Makerspace Box - Unlocking Creativity

    I worked in school libraries for over 20 years.  The library is a place in the school where all are welcome.  Students came for different reasons and varying levels of enthusiasm.  Some came to find the perfect book, others came because they had to.  But one thing we did in the library all the students loved and were excited to participate in was - Makerspace Days!

    Makerspace Days were when we brought out different activities for the students to do.  We had stations with Legos, blocks, puzzles, snap circuits etc. We also had various kinds of arts-n-crafts.  I was always excited to see what creative items the kids would make.  Many were very comfortable with craft supplies and started right away on their creations.  A few were a little more reserved, thinking that their creation had to meet certain requirements.  Those were the kids who I would encourage to open up and let their creativity soar.

    I found it curious that some kids had very little exposure to arts-n-crafts.  When I was growing up we were always making something out of simple supplies like cardboard, tissue paper, glue, fabric etc.  But I guess that was our entertainment.  Today they have many other options to entertain themselves.  I believe all people have some kind of creativity at their core. Some people need to be encouraged and exposed to different ways to unlock that creativity.  My desire is to provide a way for the kids (and adults) in my community to unlock their creative soul.  So, I am putting a Free Little Makerspace Box in my front yard.

    A Free Little Makerspace Box is similar to a Free Little Library since it is a box on a post but instead of books inside there will be craft kits.  The craft kits will be simple projects kids (and adults) can make on their own or with a little bit of help.  Each kit will have most of the main supplies for the project.  They will need to supply the basic craft supplies like glue, crayons, markers, tape etc.  There is no charge for the kits they are free.  I am using simple, inexpensive items to create the kits.

    My hope is that the kids (and adults) will come get a kit from the box each month and spend some time allowing their creativity to soar.  Check out the video below about how we built and installed our "Free Little Makerspace Box".

Danna

Cutest Mop Ever!

Do those small spills on your floor drive you crazy?  I hate to put the clean dishtowel I just got out of the drawer to wipe up the small spill on my floor.  It always seems to happen right after I have switched out the dishtowels.  Well I have a fun solution to that frustration.

Introducing the Turtle Mop!  It is perfect for those small spills.  Made from cotton fabric on the top and terry cloth on the bottom the Turtle Mop becomes your new favorite friend.  Use it to wipe up the spill with your foot and then push him back out of the way until the next spill.  When the Turtle Mop gets dirty toss him in the wash.  No more tossing that clean dishtowel you just put out to wipe up the mess.

These make great gifts and are fun enough that kids might be encouraged to wipe up their own spills.

To learn how to make your own Turtle Mop watch the full tutorial below.

Danna

 

Upcycle those old ties just hangin' around!

 For a lot of us our wardrobe has changed in the last few years.  Most places we go are more casual in the dress code.  In the workplace employees are now able to wear business casual attire all week.  Years ago it was only on Friday that you did not have to wear a suit and tie.

So, if you have a closet full of ties just hangin' around taking up precious closet space grab them and let's make something useful and fun.  This tutorial will show you how to take 2 ties and create a super cute purse that is perfect to grab and go with only the essentials.  It is also great for those teenagers in your life that love that upcycled unique fashion statement.

Don't worry if you have already cleared out all the old ties from your home.  Thrift stores, garage and estate sales have an abundance to choose from.  

Sew, let's get started!

Danna

It's in the Bag!

 I am always looking for easy ways to store items.  This drawstring bag is quick to make and can be done in lots of sizes.  This project was first made to store the Jenga style blocks from Dollar Tree.  But you can make them to store items like Legos, card games, small action figures, craft supplies, sewing notions and more.  

If you make one share in the comments what you use your bag for.

Thanks,

Danna

 I am always looking for fun and unique items to use in my sewing adventures.  Shower curtain rings are inexpensive and easily accessible. So, why not create a Christmas ornament using one.  

These ornaments are quick, fun and beginner sewing friendly.  You can make a bunch of these for all those on your list.  Tie them to the front of a package to add a bonus gift to your present.

Enjoy and keep sewing!

Danna

Seat Belt Cover

 Are you like me and the seat belt in your car drives you nuts!  I finally found a solution - a seat belt cover.  It is a quick and easy sewing project.  Great for all sewing levels and very practical.  

It fits over the seat belt and is adjustable up and down.  Now the seat belt does not bite into my shoulder when I drive.

See the video below to make this for your car.

Thanks,

Danna

Card Deck Holder

 Do you like to play cards with family and friends?  If you are like our family we have lots of card games.  Keeping those organized and the decks all together can be tricky.  But, with a card deck holder it is easy.  

These card deck holders are also great for your kids Magic, Pokemon, or Yu-Gi-Oh card games.  Those decks can become rather large so sew up several to keep them safe and organized.

Christmas is coming soon and these make great stocking stuffers.

Enjoy,

Danna