[For Seniors] Easy Craft Activity Using Straws
You might not associate straws with crafts, but you can actually make all sorts of things with them.
This time, we’ll introduce easy straw craft activities that are especially recommended for seniors.
Straws, which are so useful for drinking, can also be used in many ways for crafts.
You can even make flowers and stars with straws.
Some projects involve making cuts and require fine motor work, which can help improve concentration.
Please use this article as a reference for straw craft activities in day service programs and senior care facilities.
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[For Seniors] Simple Craft Activities Using Straws (21–30)
A basket made by braiding
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♬ เสียงต้นฉบับ – Rin DIY – Rin DIY
Recommended for those who like to focus on hands-on work! Here are some ideas for woven baskets you can make by braiding.
In recent years, stores have offered a wide variety of straw colors, making color selection part of the fun with these woven basket projects! The finished result looks so good you might not believe it’s made from straws—and you may even want to give it as a gift.
You’ll need supplies like two different colors of straws, tape, scissors, and so on.
You can also customize the basket size by changing the color combinations and the length of the straws!
straw basket
Here’s an introduction to a basket made with drinking straws that also works well as a room decoration.
Cut the straws and tie them with twine to make a cross shape.
Add more straws to extend the length, then weave them.
Keep folding and adding straws repeatedly as you go.
Fold the bottom section and secure it with cellophane tape, then trim off any excess straws.
By changing the angle of the overlapping folds, you can also change the size of the basket.
Try getting creative with the design and make baskets in shapes that older adults will enjoy.
Fireworks with a straw
Fireworks art using straws is a fun craft that lets you create simple yet dazzling pieces.
Prepare several straws and snip one end into thin strips, then flare it out.
This will form the fireworks shape.
Set out paints in multiple colors on a palette and dip the cut end of the straw into the paint.
Lightly press it onto black construction paper to create bursts of colorful fireworks.
Layering colors makes the fireworks look more dimensional and vivid.
Using thinner straws produces delicate fireworks, while thicker straws give you bold designs.
It’s a perfect idea for creative activities in day service programs, allowing older adults to enjoy a taste of summer indoors.
Perler beads
Let’s make iron beads by processing straws and use them to complete handmade accessories.
Cut the straws to a uniform width and arrange them according to a design sketch.
Cover them with parchment paper and apply an iron; the pieces will fuse together and complete the design.
Attach a strap or chain to the finished piece, and it becomes easy to incorporate into everyday decoration.
Another noteworthy point is that the repetitive motion of mass-producing small parts can also serve as finger exercise.
gift box
This is a cute gift box made from colorful straws.
Glue the straws onto a backing sheet and assemble them into a box shape.
The steps are simple, but there’s a lot of handwork involved, making it great brain training and a recommended project for older adults.
If you use paper straws sold at 100-yen shops, they’re sturdy enough to create a solid, durable box.
For the inside, attach origami or your favorite patterns to a thick backing sheet, and you’ll reveal a charming little world when you open the lid.
It’s perfect to display in your room for yourself, and it would also make a delightful gift for someone else.
trash can
Few people may think a trash bin can be made from drinking straws.
In fact, by cutting straws to just the right length, lining them up, and gluing them together, you can freely create items like boxes or bags.
The trash bin introduced here was made by connecting two different colors of straws.
While it may look intricate and difficult at first glance, the only tools used are scissors, glue, and straws, so they’re easy to gather and anyone can do it.
It helps develop fine motor skills through hand use and provides a sense of accomplishment from completing a project, so be sure to incorporate it into day service programs or skilled nursing facilities!
shoulder bag
This time, how about making a stylish shoulder bag out of drinking straws? It’s great that you can use lightweight materials so it’s easy to carry around.
First, pick two colors of straws you like.
Choosing contrasting colors is recommended because they add a nice accent.
Cut them in half, then start combining them.
The steps are repetitive, so it’s good for finger dexterity practice and easy to remember.
Finally, attach the shoulder strap and you’re done.
Incorporating bead materials is also an essential touch for extra style.
