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The most thoughtful and sentimental gifts and decor are always the ones that are proudly made by kids – especially grandkids! Whether you paint, draw, or craft, there are so many fun and unique activities that you can easily do with your grands – including DIY nature jewelry!
As its name suggests, DIY nature jewelry is made from things you and the grands find outside, whether in the backyard or on a nature walk. While these findings may seem ordinary or run-of-the-mill, they can make for the most one-of-a-kind creations and create the best memories:
1. Gather your treasures
While most crafting takes place indoors, this particular activity begins outside, as you and your grands must find your material in nature! Take a walk with your grandkids and have them pick up any little bits of nature that catch their eye, whether it’s leaves, flowers, pebbles, twigs, or even seashells if you’re near a beach. This is such a fun way to kick off your day and a great way to burn a little energy before it’s time to sit down and focus.
2. Some assembly required
Don’t worry, my fellow Devoted Grandma: You don’t need a stash of expensive equipment to pull off this craft. Before the kids come over, stock up on any or all clear jewelry resin, jewelry molds, some chains or earring hooks, and strong craft glue, all of which can be found at your local craft store or online. Don’t forget a dash of glitter or metallic paint for that added pizzazz!
3. Prep!
Depending on the treasures your grandkids find, you may want to account for a little extra prep time. Leaves and flowers can be pressed for a few days in a book or flower press, while seashells, pebbles, and twigs might just need a gentle wash and pat dry.
4. Ready, set, design
It’s time for your grandchild – AKA your star designer – to really shine! Let them arrange their nature pieces in the jewelry molds, whether it be one big piece or a beautiful collage of tiny ones. A sprinkle of glitter? Why not! The possibilities with this are truly endless.
5. It’s resin time
Your grands have shown their skills, and now it is time to show yours – it’s resin (a liquid that hardens) time! Following the instructions on the package, mix your resin and carefully pour it over the arranged pieces, making sure to completely cover them. Then, wait for the resin to cure. Please note: This can take a few hours to a couple of days.
6. Admire your hard work
Once the resin hardens, it’s time to pop out your pieces. Behold – your nature charms are ready! Any rough edges can be gently sanded down for that perfect finish.
7. Voila!
The last step is to attach your charms to your chains or earring hooks using craft glue. And voila, your grandkids have created their unique DIY nature jewelry!
Supplies
16oz Premium Clear Epoxy Resin Kit Casting and Coating
You can’t have a resin-based project with – well, resin! These smaller bottles are more affordable and the perfect size for beginners.
Jewelry Casting Molds
Don’t forget to grab some molds for your resin jewelry! This set comes in all different shapes and sizes, which is perfect for everything from large leaves to small flowers.
Keychain Rings for Crafts
The fun part of this activity is that it is so easy to customize! What will it be: A keychain (if so, here’s a bulk pack for you!)? Necklace? Earrings? The sky is the limit!
Conclusion
Are you ready to step into this magical adventure? Just wait until you see the wonder in your grandkids’ eyes as they transform ordinary finds into extraordinary jewelry. Happy crafting, my creative Grandmas! Oh, and let’s talk again soon 🙂
