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Lovely senior life

[For Seniors] Let’s Start a Fun Craft Activity

In elderly care facilities and day service centers, craft-based recreation is essential.

Because it involves fine motor movements, it helps with rehabilitation and stimulates the brain.

In this article, we’ve gathered easy and enjoyable craft ideas that older adults can make with minimal effort.

Even those who have never done crafts and lack confidence will find it easy to get started.

Most materials are things you already have at home or can quickly pick up at a dollar store.

If you’re interested in crafts, give them a try!

[For Seniors] Let’s Start Fun Craft Activities (111–120)

Strawberry Milk Candy Strap

[100-Yen DIY] Easy! How to Make a Strawberry Milk Candy Strap ♪ [Cute Candy-Themed Accessory]
Strawberry Milk Candy Strap

We’ll show you how to make a cute strap by reusing the wrapper from Sakuma’s “Ichigo Milk” candy.

First, take out the candy and wash and dry the wrapper.

Using air-dry clay, shape it into a triangle like the candy, then let it dry for a while.

Once dry, wrap it with the candy wrapper and make a hole for attaching the hardware.

Attach the hardware and secure it with glue, then add a strap or a ball chain to finish.

It’s safe and easy to make, so why not try it after enjoying your snack?

[For Seniors] Let’s Start Fun Craft Activities (121–130)

Air tube and bead strap

With an unexpected item!? Sparkling autumnal charms made with 100-yen store supplies #handmadeToys #easyCrafts #handmade #atHomePlay #DIY #kidsCrafts #preschoolIdeas #preschoolCrafts
Air tube and bead strap

Let me introduce a strap made with an air tube and beads using materials from a 100-yen shop.

Cut the air tube to your desired length and use a hot glue gun to seal one end.

Once the glue dries, add beads in the colors you like into the tube.

Seal the other end with the glue gun, attach the strap hardware after the glue dries, and you’re done.

It’s simple and safe to make, so anyone can enjoy creating it.

Try arranging different beads inside to design your own original strap.

Tassel-style strap

Just tie it! How to make a tassel-style strap [Super Easy]
Tassel-style strap

Here’s an idea for a tassel-style strap you can make just by tying.

Prepare seven suede-like cords, and thread a strap part onto one of them.

Adjust the placement so the hardware sits in the middle, form a loop, and tie it.

Secure it with a split ring, then trim the ends of the cords to finish.

If the cords tend to fray while you tie them, wrap tape around both ends to make the process easier.

It’s simple yet stylish, making it perfect for a small gift.

Why not give it a try as a little finger exercise, too?

Macramé strap with a double half-hitch knot

Macramé DIY: How to Make a Macramé Strap Using the Cute Two-Color Double Spiral Knot / Macramé Double Spiral Wristlet Keychain Tutorial
Macramé strap with a double half-hitch knot

We’d like to introduce a macramé strap twisted into a spiral using two colors of cord or string.

Macramé straps are made with a technique called macramé, which is said to derive from an Arabic word meaning to tie with crossings.

Since you braid with several cords or strings, there may be some parts that feel complex.

However, because you repeat the same steps multiple times to make the strap, it may become easy once you get used to it.

If you enjoy handicrafts, you’ll likely find it fun to make.

The strap twists all the way around in a spiral.

It’s a lovely project designed so that, when you see the finished piece, even older adults can feel a strong sense of accomplishment.

Petit Cigar Fleur

[Ribbon Lei] How to Make a Strap: Petit Cigar Fleur | For Beginners | Easy DIY Using Only Running Stitches
Petit Cigar Fleur

Let me introduce the sewn ribbon lei strap called Petit Cigar Fleur.

First, mark the thin ribbon, then sew it together with the wider ribbon.

Once you’ve stitched to the end, add a twist.

Thread on a jump ring and beads, then shape it into a bow.

Attach the strap hardware to finish.

You can create completely different color variations depending on the ribbons you use, so choose according to your taste.

Working with your hands and fingers stimulates the brain and may help prevent cognitive decline.

Macrame keychain woven in two colors

DIY Macrame Keychain Braided Two Color | Macrame Keychain Tutorial
Macrame keychain woven in two colors

We’d like to introduce an idea that features the warm, hand-knit feel of macramé: the “Two-Color Braided Macramé Keychain.” After preparing a bag hook, tie four pieces of rope to it.

Braid the ropes while alternating the two colors and shaping the form as you go.

Tie a knot in the center, trim the ends evenly, and it’s done.

Because it involves only safe braiding work, it’s recommended both as a recreation activity in senior facilities and as a finger dexterity exercise.

Be sure to use your favorite colors and create a piece that suits your taste!

Mini Zori Strap

I tried weaving mini zori straps in different sizes. Sending this from Kitami, the city of curling and mint!
Mini Zori Strap

Let’s try knitting a cute, miniature zori sandal strap.

We’ll use metallic yarn sold at craft stores.

Metallic yarn is a thread made from materials like hemp or rayon with fine glitter woven in.

Prepare a piece of Styrofoam board with toothpicks stuck into it.

Thread the metallic yarn through them and knit the zori shape.

It seems like a project that older adults can also do, focusing while using their fingertips a lot.

It helps exercise the fingers and may stimulate the brain.

Once finished, you can attach it to a bag or keys.