Make a Heart Brooch

Kids generally can’t come up with the cash to buy the bling they dream of giving Mom. Nor should they really. After all, that’s Dad’s domain. And for Mother’s Day, all Mom really wants is something from the heart. (And maybe a little quiet time!) 

This activity will not only keep the kids busy for awhile, but it will work their hand muscles-- which they're still strengthening for smooth writing. And this Heart Brooch is sure to make Mom (or Grandma) really happy to boot!

What You Need:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup salt
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon oil
• food coloring
• 1 package of pin backs (available at any craft store)
• watercolor or tempera paint and small paintbrushes

What You Do:

1. Mix together the flour, water, salt, cream of tartar, oil, and food coloring. Stir over medium heat until smooth. Remove from pan and knead until blended smooth. 
    
2. When mixture is cool, place in a plastic sandwich bag or airtight container. To make the brooch(s), shape the dough into hearts. Before they're totally dry, press pin backs into the backs of each of the hearts.

    

 

3. When the hearts are totally dry, have the kids paint them with their favorite colors. Voila! Instant jewelry, either to give someone special, or for your kids themselves!