Fun Father's Day crafts

Twiggy pen and pencil holder

ZiggityZoom.com gives us a great way for Dad to organize his pens, pencils and highlighters all together on his desk. By taking some twigs from the yard and some household items, this rugged-looking piece is sure to be a hit!

Materials

• Skinny twigs from the yard
• Three toilet paper tubes
• Craft glue (tacky white glue works great)
• Scissors
• Cardboard, 5-by5-inch piece
• Yard clippers (to be used by adult or with supervision)

Directions

1. Cut toilet paper tubes to three different lengths. We cut off 1/2 inch, 1 inch, and 1-1/2 inches from our tubes.
2. Glue tubes together, so that all tube bottoms are level. Let dry thoroughly.
3. Cut a thin strip of cardboard or a straw to the height of each tube.  This will be your guide to the lengths of twigs you need.
4. Cut twigs to length of your guide, plus some that are a little longer. (Cutting should be done by supervising adult or older child with supervision.) This will give you a more random, rustic look. Keep sizes separated for each tube; this will make it easier once you start gluing. Wipe off twigs with a damp cloth to remove any dirt.
5. Starting with the shortest tube, apply glue sparingly to a section. Press twigs into place and continue around tube. Let dry for a bit before starting next tube. Do the next two tubes in the same manner.
6. For the tops of the "inner parts" of tubes, cut short lengths of twigs to glue and finish off. Let dry.
7. Cut the bottom of your holder. Set the twig holder on top of the 5-by-5-inch piece of cardboard. Trace around the entire piece. Cut bottom a little smaller than your outline. Glue to bottom of holder.

On the next page, learn how to make a birdfeeder.