A: I have a great suggestion for you: try using markers especially made for writing on windows. They come in a variety of colors, and the best part is that you can wash the artwork off with just soap and water when you are done.
You can also make clings for your windows, using vinyl-cling material and markers or stamps. (Window markers and vinyl cling material are both available at craft stores, or you can shop online.) It's an easy, three-step process:
Steps:
- Draw or stamp on cling.
- Let dry.
- Place on window.
Q: My daughter’s club is marching in a parade and I have been assigned the job of creating a banner for them to carry. What’s the best way write the club name on the banner?
A: I suggest using an inexpensive sheet and markers. The sheet will be easy to fold up and transport, and it's far less likely to be damaged by kids before the parade ends. You can look at several kinds of markers:
- Fabric markers
- Nonpermanent / washable markers
- Permanent markers.
If you really want to get creative, then you can cut letters out of felt and use fabric glue to adhere them to the sheet, or sew them on the sheet for a more permanent bond.
Q: My little girl loves to draw, and I want to incorporate an art center into her bedroom but am looking for a way to do it without having to clean up a lot of mess from paint or crayons. Can you help?
A: One of my favorite products on the market is chalkboard paint. You can turn a section of your daughter’s room into a chalkboard by painting on the wall with this paint. She can then use chalk on it and draw to her heart’s content, and you can just wipe it away.
Just paint some molding in bright colors and put it up around the square you paint on the wall. It makes an instant chalkboard.
Money-Saver Tips:
- You can make watercolors for your kids just by adding a couple of drops of food coloring to a little water. Put water in the compartments of an egg container, add a drop or two of food coloring and you have instant watercolors.
- And if homemade play dough is what you want, then combine 1/4 cup salt with 1 cup flour in a mixing bowl. Slowly pour in 1/4 cup water with some food coloring mixed in, and knead it until you have a ball of dough!
