Stained Glass Joins the World of Easy Crafts
All you need for these easy crafts is a stack of paper and a little imagination!
If you're looking for easy crafts to make with the kids this Christmas, why not try these paper stained-glass windows? They're cute, easy, fast, and don't require a lot of materials. Better still, they can be as intricate or simple as you want. Young children who need easy crafts can make a simple design while older siblings craft their own Christmas masterpieces!
Materials
-Black construction paper
-Tissue paper in various colors
-Glue
-Scissors
-Pencils
-Scrap paper for designing (optional)
Make It!
1. Design your stained glass window. Use the black paper as a backdrop and draw a pattern onto the page in pencil (it will show up faintly. If you're worried, use a white pencil crayon instead. The marks don't matter -- you're going to turn it over later anyway).
2. Cut out the shapes you've created. Younger children will need some help with this step. You can make these really easy crafts by folding the paper to allow children to make cuts. The folds won't be obvious on the finished project. Alternatively, poke a hole in the middle and let the kids cut from there.
3. Decide what colors of tissue paper "glass" you want to use. You can use one solid color or pick a variety. Again, if you want these to be very easy crafts, stick with a single color. Older children will have the patience to place more colors.
4. Spread a thin layer of glue over the black paper on the same side as the pencil marks. You'll probably want to lay something down on the table before you do this (unless you want the craft becoming a permanent part of your evening meals).
5. Spread a piece of tissue paper (or several smaller pieces if you're using more colors) over the black paper. The tissue paper will fill in the holes, creating the "glass" for your window. Immediately flip the craft over to dry. That way, if you did get any glue on the table, your project won't rip when you pick it up.
6. Tape them in any window and watch the light filter through. The effect is surprisingly realistic. You probably won't want more than one or two in your living room, but if the kids want, let them cover their entire bedroom window in stained "glass."
And that's all there is to it! They're simple, pretty, and a lot of fun. Grab your scissors and get started on these easy crafts today!
