As summer winds down and a brand-new school year begins, countless memories are waiting to be made. Whether your little one is heading off to school for the very first time or starting another exciting year, these fun back-to-school crafts are a creative way to commemorate the journey ahead. From personalized keepsakes from Bronner’s to colorful DIY projects the whole family can enjoy, these crafts can help capture the excitement of a fresh start and create special memories to look back on long after the school year has come to an end.
School Bus Picture Frame
What You’ll Need:
Popsicle Sticks
Scissors
Glue
Markers/Paint
Step 1: First, color the popsicle sticks. You will need six yellow sticks, one gray stick, and one black stick. Next, cut the rounded ends off the black stick to create the wheels for your school bus.
Step 2: Once your sticks are colored and prepared, begin assembling the frame. First, use two yellow popsicle sticks as the base. Then, glue two yellow sticks across the top. Next, attach three sticks toward the bottom, using two yellow sticks and the gray stick along the bottom. This will create the frame for your photo. Finally, glue the black ends underneath the gray stick to create the wheels.
Step 3: After the frame has been assembled, use a red marker or paint to add the bus’s brake lights. Then, personalize your school bus however you’d like! For example, you can add the year, the grade your child is starting, their name, or any other special details to make the photo frame uniquely yours.
Ruler Pennant Flag
What You’ll Need:
Ruler
Felt/Foam
Scissors
Glue
Ribbons
Markers
Step 1: First, cut an elongated triangle out of the felt or foam sheet to use as the base of your flag.
Step 2: Next, glue the felt or foam piece toward the top of the ruler. Be sure to leave enough space at the bottom of the ruler for your hand to fit comfortably, as this will serve as the handle for your flag.
Step 3: Once the flag base is securely attached, tie ribbons around the bottom of the flag material to add extra color, movement, and character.
Step 4: Finally, use markers and any additional accessories to design and personalize your flag. Get creative and add any colors, patterns, words, or decorations you’d like to make it your own!
Pencil Pretzel Rods
What You’ll Need:
Yellow & Pink Chocolate Melts
Black Frosting
Step 1: First, heat the yellow chocolate melts in a tall glass or microwave-safe container—one that is tall enough to dip most of a pretzel rod—in the microwave for 10 seconds. Then, mix and repeat until the chocolate melts are completely liquefied.
Step 2: Next, dip the pretzel rod into the yellow chocolate, coating most of the rod. Then, allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the container until the pretzel has a thin, even layer of chocolate.
Step 3: Once the yellow layer has hardened, begin melting the pink chocolate. Then, take your yellow-coated pretzel rod and dip one end into the pink chocolate. This will create the look of a pencil with an eraser. Finally, set the pretzel aside and allow the pink chocolate to harden.
Step 4: Optional: For an extra detail, use a fine-tip frosting pen or piping bag to write “No. 2” just below the pink area, making your pretzel rod look even more like a classic No. 2 pencil.
Don’t forget that Bronner’s also has a great selection of school-themed gifts and ornaments! Whether you’re commemorating your child’s early school years, showing appreciation for a special teacher, or celebrating an upcoming graduation, there’s something for every milestone. So, be sure to shop online or visit us in-store to see the full collection!
*AI contributed to this article.