Looking for fresh inspiration for family time? Try crafting. Making things together is a great way to bond, open lines of communication, and create memories. Following are five fun and easy craft projects you can enjoy making with the whole fam.

1. Bead Jewelry

When it comes to crafting, jewelry is always a winner. Kids love sorting through beads and jewelry is fun and easy to make and to wear. Gather a selection of pearl beads, rhinestones, charms, and even buttons, as well as elastic cord, embroidery thread, ribbon or fishing line. Have each person decide on an item such as a necklace or bracelet, cut to length, tie a knot in the end, and have at it. This one isn’t just for kids. In between tying and admiring, why not create an elegant single pearl necklace for yourself?

2. CD Photo Frame

Finally, a use for all those CDs cluttering up your home. Recycle them by turning it into beautiful, unique photo frames. There are a couple of ways you can do this: use the CDs whole, by simply cutting a shape out of the center with a box cutter (adults should do this part). The kids can have fun decorating with stickers, paint, or markers. Attach some strip magnets to the back so you can hang them on the fridge or any other metal surface. An alternative is to cut the CD into different shaped pieces. Use a pre-made photo frame or cut out cardboard into a desired shape. Glue CD pieces together in a mosaic pattern using glitter or colored glue. Don’t feel confined to squares or rectangles either. Let your imagination take flight!

3. Memory Jars

This is a super-fun way to create a keepsake of a special vacation or event, and you can usually make it with stuff you already have. Gather up your mementos, like small seashells, ticket stubs, maybe a keychain of a local attraction, and a photo or two. Find a big jar and arrange the items inside. Have the kids draw a background and label it with dates if desired. Each person can make their own, and you can line them up side by side on a shelf, then talk about why these particular items were most memorable for each of you.

4. Fancy Feet

These days, fashion is all about personal expression, so what better way to show off your family’s individuality than with a pair of special sneaks? Pick up cheap canvas shoes for each participant along with some fabric paint: puffy, glitter, metallic, so many fun options to choose from! Acrylics also work fine. Before starting, you’ll need to give the shoes a quick swipe with acetone (nail polish remover) to make the paint stick. Take care not to soak the fabric. Let dry, then lay out some old newspapers and get creative. Have brushes of difference sizes and textures. Allow sneakers to dry for at least 2-3 hours before touching, and a couple of days before wearing. In the meantime, put them in a place of honor so you can admire your handiwork.

5. Yarn Flower Cards

Because homemade cards are so much nicer than store-bought ones, this one is a great project for just about any holiday, and especially perfect for Mother’s Day. You will need cardstock, scissors, yarn in happy colors, including green for stems, and glue. Spread a thin coat of glue on the cardstock where you will be placing a flowerhead. Coil yarn in a circle, pressing down firmly. Mix or match colors as desired. You can also layer them or add a button center. When flower heads are done, add stems. Pipe cleaners can also be used for stems and leaves. Let dry before folding or writing on the card. Fun, easy, unique, and elegant, what more could you ask for?