by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: February 01, 2013   Last Updated: February 04, 2013

Valentine’s Day has a few staple items that seem to make the holiday complete. It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without roses being delivered somewhere. Children love to make Valentine boxes to collect their cards and goodies. Of course, there are those lovely boxes of chocolates. And it simply would not be Valentine’s Day without those conversation heart candies. You know the ones, with the little message printed on the candy. Why not take that theme, remove the calories, and make some fun and versatile decorations to celebrate the season? These make great neighbor gifts and are fun because they can be changed and used the whole season.

It all begins with a trip to the craft store to pick up wooden hearts. They come in all sizes. Pick big heavy ones for larger decorations, or small ones that can have magnets attached to the backs. They can be strung together in a garland. Or, possibly the best idea of all: Make them into chalkboards that you can add your own sweet sayings, greetings and thoughts to. They can be changed every single day. It is fun for the whole family.

Supplies needed

Chalkboard paint
Paint brush
Wooden hearts
Sandpaper
Chalkboard markers
Magnets
Craft glue
Jute

(Note: If you are making the garland, use the jute. If you are making the magnets, you'll need the magnets and glue. If you are just doing stand up decorations, just the first four items are needed.)

Using the sandpaper, smooth off any edges or rough spots. You can use spray chalkboard paint or brush on. Both have some texture and using a paint brush is a good idea with either, because it will help you to avoid any streaking or splotches. The key to having a good surface to write on is to have at least three coats of paint. The paint must dry completely between each coat.

If you are making the magnets use the craft glue to attach the magnets to the hearts.

If you want to make a garland, braid the jute to the desired length and use the craft glue to attach the hearts to the jute.

About now you may be trying to remember some of the phrases that you’ve seen on those conversation hearts.  Here are some fun suggestions, courtesy of Brach’s candy hearts: “Love you,” “Be mine,” “You’re cool,” “Whatever,” “You Rule,” “Be Good” and “My Baby.”

Learn more about this author, Trenna Sue Hiler.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.