What to do when you quarantine

Let’s face it…some of you are going stir crazy, some of you are being more productive than you have been in years. What to do when you quarantine is about this brilliant idea I had but wish I had thought of it in March.

I’ve enjoyed this quiet life and gift of time. I’ve worked on projects here and there, cooked lots, and experimented with new recipes. But what turns out to be my favorite was a virtual quarantine craft session with my besties!

One day while I was reflecting on the things that make me happy besides my family is projects! I’ve always loved working on projects. It’s especially more fun when I involve others. Hence, why I’ve always done crafts with friends and family, wherever I have been.

The time of shared while painting, gluing, stapling, whatever, is my favorite! A thought came to mind about how much I missed my besties (the Rusties), and missed crafting with them.

How to incorporate the two

The CRAFT: July seemed like the next (possible) holiday we will be able to celebrate “together” after all this is said and done. A not too complicated craft without being there to assist in the process!
Ship-able materials: I’d have to send each one a care package with all the materials needed for the project and make it where it wouldn’t be too costly.

Those were really the two main factors on deciding what craft and how to ship it. I decided on some simple, decorative, giant wooden tags for the 4th of July!

Prepping:

Using smoothie straws, I filled each with paint and plaster needed to make DIY chalk paint. I did this by cutting the straws to the right size. While pinching one end with needle nose pliers, I used the lighter to heat up the end and then pinched it tight for about a second to seal. I filled the straws and repeated the sealing step again. Making transportable tubes of paint. I did the same for the plaster of Paris but used the paper funnel to fill the straws.

What I shipped in box:

plastic mixing bowls
paint brushes
stirring sticks for mixing up paint
wood cutouts
ribbon/twine
vinyl stars & stripes to use as stencils
list of other supplies for them to gather – such as: scissors, water, paper towels, credit card or like item to press vinyl on wood

How to host your virtual session

Once materials shipped…

decide on a date & time
set up project area
grabbed a favorite drink
get laptop/tablet or phone
connect to Messenger for a 1.5 hour of fun (that’s how long it took us cause of stories and catching up)!

This was a blast, we’re ready for the 4th and I can’t wait to do it again!!! Give it a try and ask questions if you have any—I would love to help you host your own virtual DIY crafting!