Most of us would say that the Fourth of July is a hallmark of summertime. Personally, the Sandlot movie stands as the true emblem of the season. The Fourth of July immediately transports me to the scene of the boys cracking their baseball bats under a sky of fireworks, only to soon become awestruck by the patriotic display of sparks. While these crafts would probably be ill suited for Benny and his rambunctious group, they may be perfect for the kids in your life.

Starry Chalk Paint

Are you looking to make your driveway or sidewalk scream Fourth of July? Well, this is the craft for you. This craft activity is a great way to get kids of varying ages outside, and involve them in the decorating process. Because the later stages of this craft do not require too much precision, even your toddler can successfully participate with a little help.

To begin, you’ll need:

  • Scissors
  • Paper
    • Any kind is fine, but I recommend sturdy cardstock for stability.
  • Pencil, pen, or marker
  • Masking tape (optional)
  • Cornstarch
  • Water
  • Cups for mixing
  • Red and blue food dye
  • Paint brushes
    Fourth of July star stencil craft

    Directions for the DIY star stencil:

    1. Draw a star on your piece of paper
      • You can use as many pieces of paper as you’d like.
      • You can use varying sizes of stars–it’s up to you and your creative preference!
      • If you’re all about neatness, tracing is absolutely an option.
    2. Carefully cut the star shape out and discard it, keeping the surrounding paper as your stencil.

    Directions for chalk paint.

    1. Mix ½ cup of cornstarch and ½ cup of water. If you’d like to make more, just keep a 1:1 ratio of cornstarch to water.
    2. Stir until smooth and blended.
    3. Separate into three mixing cups.
    4. Put 8-10 drops of red food coloring into one cup. You may need more to avoid creating pink chalk.
    5. Repeat step 4 for blue.
    6. Leave one cup sans dye for white.

    For the activity:

    1. Place the star stencil down on the cement. 
      • If you’re looking for more paper stability or to free up a hand, use masking tape.
    2. Using a paint brush, blot the star shape with your chalk paint.
      • You’re welcome to stick to one color per star, but knowing the unbridled creativity of children, colors are bound to mix (think of your play doh containers…).
    3. Let dry.
    4. Enjoy your starry display!

    Toilet Paper Roll Fireworks

    Upcycle your toilet paper rolls to create fun and beautiful fireworks! This craft is best suited for preschool and above. 

    Supplies:

    • Toilet paper rolls, 3
    • Scissors
    • Red, white, and blue paint
    • Paper plates, 3
    • Black paper, preferably construction or cardstock.
      • You can also use white printer paper if you just use blue and red paint.
    • Glitter (optional)
    Fourth of July toilet paper roll fireworks craft

    Directions:

    1. Cut small slits (about ¾ to ½ the roll’s length) along one side of the toilet paper roll. Do this all the way around your chosen side.
    2. Bend the sides back to fan out the toilet paper roll.
    3. Repeat for your remaining rolls and put aside.
    4. Pour each paint color onto your paper plates. Tilt, roll, etc. to make sure the paint reaches the edges. 
    5. Place one toilet paper roll on each paper plate to pick up the paint like a stamp. 
    6. Choose a color to press down onto the black paper.
    7. Repeat over the same spot with the other colors.
    8. If you’d like, add some glitter!

    Snap a picture of your craft and tag @beniciamagazine on Instagram. We would love to see your versions of these Fourth of July inspired crafts!