Page 9 - Clear Lake Mirror Reporter E-Edition 7-22-2015

Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter Lifestyle July 22, 2015 • Page 9

Capture travel memories
with colorful craft ideas
(Family Features) From road
trips to grandma’s house to once-in-a- Whether it’s a postcard or a sea shell,
lifetime treks across the globe, nothing make use of knickknacks you’ve picked
rejuvenates the spirit quite like travel. up on your journeys and incorporate
Now vacation memories can be shared them into a piece of art you and your
for years to come with simple, do-it- family can cherish.
yourself projects. Whether you want to build
Some of your best memories are anticipation for the little ones for an
made while traveling, so honor them upcoming trip or just want a cute
with keepsake crafts that you can make reminder of things to stow away in
uniquely yours. Travel keepsake decor is the suitcase, these engaging projects,
a great way to capture and preserve all created by the crafting experts at
of the wonderful places you’ve visited, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft stores, will
as well as creating a great conversation have you longing for your next great
piece for all who visit your home. adventure.
For these and other clever crafting
ideas, visit www.joann.com.

Travel Countdown Board Pack just the essentials
Crafting time: 1-2 hours
Skill level: No experience (BPT) - For many, summer trips are the perfect escape from an otherwise
necessary busy life. They offer the opportunity to experience new places, taste new foods and
generally de-stress! This summer, don’t get bogged down by the thought of preparing
Supplies and Tools: to board in place desired. for a trip. Keep it simple by packing everything you need and nothing you don’t
Decoupage 5. Add travel embellishments as using these five quick tips.
Travel paper desired. 1. Create a list. Tend to over-pack? Making a checklist in advance will ensure
Framed chalkboard 6. Use chalk to fill in blanks. you pack only the essentials and don’t throw in last-minute unnecessary items. Extra
Paint markers tip: coordinate with your travel buddies to share toiletries such as toothpaste and
Paintbrushes shampoo.
Ruler 2. Pack light. Leave the full-sized body wash, three jackets and seven pairs of
Twine shoes at home. In fact, no matter the length of your trip, you only need three pairs
Chalk of shoes. For a summer vacation, pack sandals, sneakers and a dressy pair.
Clothespin of choice 3. Make your phone your friend. Having a good phone plan means your map,
Scrapbook travel tour guide, translator, camera and Internet are all in your pocket. Use a good screen
embellishments protector and invest in a quality cover or case. This is an easy and inexpensive way
Double-sided adhesive to prevent scratching, cracks and other external damage.
1. Decoupage travel paper 4. Leave the toy room at home. When traveling with young children, it’s easy
to frame of chalkboard and to want to pack every book, toy, teddy and blanket. Leave all that gear at home
allow to dry. and just bring one or two new books or a favorite toy. Or better yet, update your
2. Draw countdown tablet or phone with kid-friendly apps for them and bestselling books for you!
calendar spaces and words 5. Repurpose your wardrobe. Choose staple clothing items such as jeans, tanks
using paint markers, and scarves that you can repurpose with different outfits throughout your trip.
paintbrushes and ruler. Allow Bonus tip: pick garments of the same color family. This way all of your clothes mix
to dry. and match together, without over-packing.
3. Tie twine around chalk and then You’ve worked all year for the chance to take an amazing summer trip. Don’t
through clothespin. waste it. Incorporate these packing tips for a vacation you’ll remember all year long.
4. Use adhesive to attach clothespin
Vacation Memory Block Do a pre-trip vehicle check
Crafting time: 1-2 hours
Skill level: Some experience (Family Features) If your upcoming travel plans include a road trip, the last
necessary thing you want is unexpected car trouble to leave you stranded at the side of the
road. A pre-trip vehicle check is the best way to ensure that your car is ready to get
What Drives Your Road Trip? Supplies and Tools: around all four sides. Adhere square to you to your destination.
Wood block: 3 1/4-by-3 1/4-by- each side of wood block. “Taking steps to have auto repairs performed before long distance driving will
Are you heading out on the open road this summer? It’s difficult to know where to 3 1/4-inches 3. Adhere travel photos to block. not only give you peace of mind, but will also help avoid the inconvenience and
start when planning and packing for a road trip. What type of hotel will fit your Paint 4. Cut sentiments and potential safety hazards of breaking down when you’re miles from home,” said Rich
travel style best? What types of clothes will be the most sensible to pack? Should Paintbrush embellishment shapes from Travel White, executive director of the Car Care Council.
you hit the beach or stop at one of America’s beautiful national parks? Check out DCWV 12-by-12-inch Travel Adventure Stack. Adhere in place. Add Protect your vehicle and your own safety by following these recommendations
how seasoned road trippers rank their top considerations when hitting the road! Adventure Cardstock Stack visual interest to block by bending from the Car Care Council and complete a thorough pre-trip checklist before hitting
Paper punch: corner rounder some embellishments from one side to the road:
Ink another, adhering in place. • Check the brake system and make sure the battery connection is clean, tight
Photos 5. Tie twine around block. and corrosion-free.
Scissors or paper trimmer •Check filters and fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and
Papercrafting adhesive transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant. Dirty air filters can
Pencil waste gas and cause the engine to lose power.
Ruler •Check hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show
Twine signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical
1. Paint wood block desired color. system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.
Set aside to dry. • Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Underinflated tires reduce
2. Cut six 3 1/8-inch squares a vehicle’s fuel economy and uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment.
from the different prints in the Travel Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
Adventure Stack. Round corners of •Check that the gas cap is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from
each square with paper punch and ink spilling or evaporating.
You can also make sure your vehicle is road-trip-ready by taking better care of
your vehicle throughout the year.

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