By Noreen Doll.
Make an easy 4th of July fan from a milk jug.
It makes a colorful patriotic favor, and is cheap and easy to create. And it really works to help your guests stay cool.
It’s a great project for kids to help with, as they can cover the fan with colorful designs.
Or you could set up a table with markers and fan shapes pre-cut, and let all the guests design their own fans.
The 4th of July fan can also be covered with paper designs that can be added and sealed with Mod Podge. This method would need to be done ahead, and could actually be done weeks before you need them.
Unlike paper, this fan won’t crumple or break. And you can use non-holiday designs, too.
Because it’s flat, it will slip easily into the inside edge of a purse.
Materials.
Milk Jug
Scissors
Permanent Markers
Paper Designs
Mod Podge
Foam Brush
How to Make a 4th of July Fan from a Milk Jug.
1. Draw a fan pattern that will fit the largest side of the milk jug. Try to use the whole flat surface of that side.
This fan won’t have a narrow handle as it is less bendy when it is cut wider, but taper it a little toward the bottom.
2. Use a very fine point marker to trace the pattern onto the side of the milk jug.
I used a thick marker to make the pattern more visible for the photo.
3. Cut just inside the marked line.
I find it easier to cut out the whole panel first, then cut out the fan.
4. To decorate the fan, decoupage pictures or draw on the fans with markers. Kids can be great help with this part.
I Mod Podged some wallpaper balloons on the fan.
5. Cut out the paper designs you want to use on the fan.
6. Apply Mod Podge to the back of the paper design.
7. Press the paper on the fan.
8. Mod Podge over the paper, being sure to cover all the edges. Let dry.
9. You can add a second coat of Mod Podge if you like.
10. I drew strings on the balloons to add a little detail.
This 4th of July fan is ready to be used, or wrapped up for a guest.
Making 4th of July fans is a great way to prepare for the holiday, and to help stay cool.
© Noreen Doll
Shirley says
This is really clever.
Linda says
Hey, Noreen. Guess what? I picked out you out of the group. I thought to myself.. that is Noreen!! And so it was. 🙂 Have a good week. Linda
Jill says
Cute and simple craft! and oh so thrifty too! Love it!\
Hope you have a fabulous week!
Jill
http://www.jembellish.blogspot.com/
Ritchil says
My kids would have a blast making this. Pinning!
I found you on the Make The Scene Monday party. Have a good one!
Ritchil
Capri + 3--Theresa says
I love your patriotic fans. The idea of guests creating their own fans, children and adults alike is wonderful. What fun! I always look forward to your creative ideas.
Diann @ The Thrifty Groove says
Very cute idea. thanks for sharing at TTF this week!
Lauren says
I would never have thought of this but the milk jug plastic WOULD be perfect and your decorations are adorable!
Mandy |Small Fine Print| says
TOO fun. This technique would also make great paddles for balloon ping pong
Mandy
admin says
Great idea!
Noreen
Crystal says
Great idea! Visiting from the Pity Party!
Julie says
What a great way to reuse those milk jugs and perfect to do with little ones!
Thanks!
Julie
Susan says
How brilliant and practical and green! Thanks for bringing it to us.
BeColorful says
You always have the best kid friendly projects. Thanks for sharing.
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Sara says
Neat! Thanks again for sharing on my blog hop! This weeks blog hop is already started!
Debi and Charly @ Adorned From Above says
Very cute. Thanks so much for sharing with Adorned From Above’s Blog Hop. The party will be back this week starting Tuesday and 8:00PM mountain time. We can’t wait to see what you have to share this week.
Have a great week.
Debi and Charly
Kirstylee says
These are so cool. I never would have thought to make these, but they are perfect for the parade we’ll be going to on the 4th!
Susie says
Hey there! Thanks for such a cool craft. Stop by again leave another awesome project!
Have a wonderful week!
Susie
http://bowdabrablog.com