by Nancy F Morgan

Created on: October 27, 2009

Every family is made up of differing personalities and interests. That is what makes Halloween the perfect time to come together for family crafting fun. Whether one is feeling spooky or silly, creepy or cute, all can enjoy these crafts that allow for individual expression.

Paper Bag Lanterns

Supplies needed for each craft:

One orange (or color of your choice) waxed paper bag (available at craft stores)

Fine or medium tip permanent markers

Scissors

Votive candle and glass votive candle holder

Place waxed paper bag on a flat surface and using the permanent marker, draw your design on one side. The design can be anything you choose; a silly face, a spider, even your name using block style letters. It's up to you so use your imagination. Note to parents: permanent markers are best as non-permanent markers will smudge on the waxed surface. You may want to have extras on hand in case of mess-ups.

Next, cut out the designs. Small children will need help in determining where their drawings should be cut so that they do not end up with one big hole in the bag.

After designs are cut, place the paper bags on a porch or walkway, or even a windowsill. Just be sure that they are on a secure and level surface to minimize the chance of tipping over. Now place the votive in the it's glass holder in the bottom center inside the bag. Be sure that the votive sits well below the the top of the holder for safety reasons.

When it gets dark outside, light the candles and enjoy the glow of your homemade Halloween decorations!

Trick or Treat Bags

Supplies needed for each craft:

One medium heavy duty paper bag with handles

Crayons, markers or paint

Construction paper in assorted colors

Glue

For this very simple craft all you really need is a little creativity. Just decorate the outside of the bag in anyway you wish. You can cut or tear simple shapes from construction paper and glue onto bag. Or draw an elaborate Halloween scene. Children particularly like this type of crafting because they can express themselves in anyway they wish. After all, it is their bag that they, themselves will use for trick-o-treating. Provide them with the supplies then let them create and have fun.

Pumpkin Painting

Supplies needed for each craft:

One pumpkin or squash of any shape or size. (Seminole squash are an excellent choice if you start your Halloween crafting and decorating early or like to leave them out well past Halloween as they have a very long shelf life)

Non-toxic craft paint in an assortment of colors

Brushes in a variety of sizes

This is simply an alternative to pumpkin carving. Again, each member of the family is able to express themselves individually. But if you would prefer to set a more collective crafting environment, try this suggestion; Have each member of the family draw a picture of his or her face on the pumpkin. Then display outside with a painted wooden sign bearing the family name. Or for even more fun, draw names from a hat then create your pumpkin family by each member drawing the face of the person whose name they drew from the hat.

The advantage to painting over carving, other than the sticky, gooey mess, it that the pumpkins can be saved until near Thanksgiving creating another family project; baking fresh pumpkin pies!

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