Patriotic Craft Projects

From LoveToKnow Crafts

Fun and festive, patriotic craft projects combine your civic pride, holiday spirit, and creativity all in one. For kids, such crafts can also double as lessons about American history, the election process, citizenship, and more.

The patriotic colors: red, white, and blue.

Holidays and Celebrations

While patriotic crafts can be made year-round, there are certain occasions when they are especially timely. Independence Day is likely the first holiday that comes to mind, but did you know that May is the month with the most related celebrations? There are three.

For your calendar, keep the following dates in mind. Note that most craft stores, such as Michaels, carry seasonal items, including thematic ones.

Presidents Day, third Monday of February
Labor Day, first Monday of May
Armed Forces Day, third Saturday of May
Memorial Day, last Monday of May
Flag Day, June 14
Independence Day, July 4
Patriot Day, September 11
Constitution Day, September 17
Veterans Day, November 11

Patriotic Craft Projects and Ideas

Though red, white, and blue supplies may be more prevalent around the Fourth of July, there's always plenty of paint, ribbon, and stencils to work with at any time. You should be able to find these basic supplies at your local crafts store; you may even have them around the house. With them, you'll be able to create something truly celebratory.

**A Few Basic Craft Supplies**
craft sticks	acrylic paint	paint brushes
construction paper	stickers	craft scissors
stencils	markers	drinking straws
balloons	modeling clay	paper clips
beads	string/yarn	craft dots
felt fabric	glitter	colored tape

As Martha Stewart says, patriotic crafts can add a "festive touch" to any celebration. Spruce up a picnic or patriotic party with a few homemade red, white, and blue creations. From napkin rings to garland, noise makers to centerpieces, let your creative side invent, improvise, and dazzle.

Quick Crafts

From simple to elaborate, there are many creative ways to express your patriotism. Looking for quick crafts? They're by definition, easy to make and not at all expensive.

Better Homes and Gardens suggests “flag necklaces” for the Fourth of July, made from just three supplies: hairpins, beads, and metallic braid. Time required is less than an hour and the end result is a charming accessory that will dress up any outfit. A project like this is versatile as well, inviting your creative whims and inspiration. Remember, that no matter how it turns out, the colors will keep it patriotic.

Other quick ideas to consider:

Bubble wands
Pinwheels
Miniature flags
Festive fans
Twirlers
String of stars
Flag pins
Star pins
Bunting
Clackers
Table toppers
Favors
Photo frames

Kids Crafts: Stars and Stripes

Whimsical and patriotic.

Patriotic crafts are also a great way to get kids interested in American history. Topics may include Old Glory, military milestones, and government leaders. With kids, help them understand the significance of patriotism and how their crafts can contribute to it. You’ll find kids crafts are a quintessential way to turn learning into fun.

Enchanted Learning: More than 50 projects and activities to choose from. Each project includes a supplies list and step-by-step instructions.

FamilyFun.com: A bundle of "star-studded crafts," including rocket balloons, star-spangled wavers, and liberty shakers.

Kaboose: A collection of fun-to-create craft projects designed to express patriotic spirit.

FamilyEducation.com: Fun crafts for kids, including an egg-carton Uncle Sam and patriotic mobile and torch.

Forever Red, White and Blue

Lastly, though ideas will vary, patriotic craft projects are all similar when it comes to color: red, white, and blue. Indeed, a simple way to make your project patriotic is to dress it up in the colors of the flag. Design with stars, stripes, fireworks, or quotes, and you will have a perfectly patriotic craft to express your love of country.

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