Sewing on Burlap: Cut squares of burlap or other loosely woven material into 8 or 10
inch pieces. Thread plastic darning needles with yarn and knot the ends of the yarn. Let
each child make his own design. Some may need help initially with the mechanics of sewing.
Sewing Cards: Cut pieces of cardboard into various shapes. Punch holes about an inch
apart around the edges. Stiffen the ends of a string, yarn or shoelace by wrapping with
cellophane tape or dipping in melted wax. Have the children lace in and out of the holes.
Nail Board
Hammer small furniture tacks or nails into a rectangular board, about 6" x 8". Give
the children a good supply of colored wires, yarns and rubber bands to stretch across the
nails and form pictures.
Yarn Weaving
Dip ends of yarn in melted wax and let children weave in and out of plastic berry
baskets.
Tie Dyeing
Materials: Untreated soft cotton cloth
String or rubber bands
Powdered or liquid dye (keep adding dye until desired shade is achieved)
A container of clear water
Salt
Container for dye bath, preferably stainless steel or enamel
Procedure: 1. Have the dye bath simmering during the entire dyeing process. (for
fastness a few tbls. of salt can be added)
2. Tie cloth tightly by bunching it up in a ball and tying with string; or
pleating it like a fan (stripes); or picking it up in the center and
wrapping string around down to the open edge (circle); or
experimenting anyway you choose.
3. Place tied cloth in the clear water untl completely soaked.
4. Remove from water and place in the dye. Let simmer in dye for 1 to 3
minutes, depending on strength of dye and desired shade.
5. Remove from dye (strainer or basket comes in handy) and rinse under a
faucet until water runs clear.
6. Remove string and repeat the same procedure, omitting dipping in clear
water if you want to add another color.