Like they say, the best gifts are the ones you create yourself! For this Father's Day, create a heart-felt, homemade gift for your dad or loved one that he’ll cherish forever.
Check out these three ideas from our DIY Expert, Merri Cvetan!
Father's Day Frame-Up
Get crafty this Father’s Day. Even the littlest kids can get involved in this simple frame project.
What you'll need:
- Picture frame (Goodwill is a great source for frames in all shapes, sizes and finishes. Look for one with wide molding.)
- Spray paint (If you want to change the color of your frame.)
- Old magazines, newspapers, or books
- Craft glue
How to create:
- If you'd like to change the color of your frame, apply a couple coats of spray paint and you're ready to start.
- Cut out letters from magazines to spell whatever words are appropriate for your dad or loved one. (Magazine pages printed on heavier paper work best.)
- Arrange the letters around the frame until you get a composition you like. (Remember, this is an art project, so don’t worry about perfection. Let the youngsters do the cutting.)
- Adhere the words with craft glue and let dry.
- Wrap up your gift and get ready to make dad's day! He will love a framed photo of the kids, especially if they made it themselves.
Easy and Quick Father's Day Gifts
Have young ones at home who are looking to create a special gift for dad or grandpa? Try this DIY Project!
What you'll need:
- Plain white ceramic mugs, plates or bowls (You can find all of these at your local Goodwill for less than a $1 each.)
- Permanent markers
- Oven
How to create:
- Using a permanent marker, start drawing the design on your ceramic mug, plate or bowl.
- Once your drawing is complete, let it sit out for a few hours.
- Turn your oven to 350°F. Put the ceramic mug, plate or bowl in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- Take your artwork out of the oven carefully. (Use caution, it will be extremely hot.)
- Once cooled, hand wash your new creation. (Dishwasher not recommended.)
- And you're done! Everyone is sure to love these personalized gifts.
Grill Master Gifts
Father’s Day is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate dad, grandpa or someone special than to make something meaningful. If your father is the king of the grill, a denim apron is the perfect gift.
What you'll need:
- An extra-large pair of jeans from Goodwill.
- Scissors
- Old apron
- Sewing materials
How to create:
- Purchase an extra-large pair of jeans at Goodwill
- Cut the inseam on both legs, then turn the pants inside out.
- Using an old apron as a pattern cut away the extra leg fabric.
- Make a straight cut at the back seam (you’re cutting off the curve).
- Sew the two pieces together.
- Turn the piece right-side-out.
- Cut off the front section of the jeans at the side seams.
- Round off the bottom corners.
- Sew a hem all the way around.
- Make a bib for the apron from the front of the jeans by cutting off the pockets.
- Hem the sides.
- Pin and sew the bib to the bottom “skirt.”
Make neck tie:
- Cut off the hem from the pant legs
- Pin and attach to the top of the bib
Make back ties:
- Cut 2-¼ in. strips from the left-over pant leg
- Fold in raw edges so they meet in the middle
- Fold in half again; pin, press and sew
- Attach to the apron at the sides
The finished product will be ready for the chef with pockets for cooking gadgets and belt loops to hang pot holders and spatulas. It’s a grill master’s dream apron and you did it yourself.