We are nearing the end of summer, but do not fear, there is still time for one last hurrah.  These two projects will turn any backyard party from blasé to beautiful and fun instantly! I mean really, who can resist the charm of pinwheels and ribbon wands?  Use the pinwheels as centerpieces or in plants around the yard. The ribbon wands make for a great impromptu parade or are a fun addition to any dance party. You can even send them home with your guests as little favors.  Pin down the date for your next party and we'll be checking the mail for our invite.

PAPER PINWHEELS

Materials Needed:

• Lightweight origami or scrapbook paper
  (one or two-sided)
• Scissors
• Push Pins
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Wooden Dowels
• Mason Jars and Sand

Step One:

Cut your paper into 5x5" squares (smaller or larger is fine as long as it is square).

Step Two:

Fold the squares in half diagonally both ways.

Step Three:

Measure 1" from the center on all 4 lines and make a dot, cut along each line to your dot.

Step Four:

Push the Pin into your dowel to make a hole prior to putting the pinwheel on, makes it easier to push in later.

Take the pin back out.

Step Five:

Put the Pin through every other corner on your pinwheel, one at a time.

Then push it through the center of the pinwheel and connect it to the dowel.

Step Six: 

Place the Pinwheel in the Mason Jar of Sand and feel happy because pinwheels make people happy!

Options: You can paint your dowel a different color and you can glue two sheets of paper together to make the pinwheel multiple patterns on the inside and outside.

RIBBON WANDS

Materials Needed:

• Wooden Skewers
• 3 to 4 different coordinating thin ribbons
• Plastic Beads (available on wired stems in craft stores)
• Glue Gun
• Scissors

Step One:

Cut your Ribbons in various sizes around the size of the skewer.

Step Two: 

Use your glue gun to heat a little hole into your plastic bead, put a dab of glue and push it onto your pointed end of the skewer.

Step Three:

Tie your Ribbons onto the skewer just below the bead.

Step Four: 

Trim the Ribbons to have a clean edge and to the lengths you want them. 

Step Five:

Wave them in the air like you just don't care!!