Entertain Outdoors with Summer Crafts

(Family Features) Your backyard is the perfect setting for summer celebrations, and the outdoors provide ideal inspiration for crafts that lend a personal touch to your festivities.

Al fresco diningWhen setting the table for a sunset meal on the patio, it’s the extra touches that count, from a centerpiece of freshly cut flowers to the linens at each setting. Take a note from nature and mimic the vibrant floral colors to make custom Dip Dyed and Stamped Cloth Napkins, a project from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. Add an extra special touch by incorporating words such as “eat” or “friends” onto each piece, or create a custom memento by stamping each guest’s name into the fabric.

A gaming good timeGuests of all ages can gather round for a little light-hearted competition with your homemade Bean Bag toss game. Select fabrics that correspond to your overall theme for a more elegant look, or go whimsical with bright summery shades that add to the fun.

For more craft ideas and inspiration, visit www.joann.com.

Dip Dyed and Stamped Cloth NapkinsProject courtesy of Merrick White, www.merricksart.com

Crafting time: 1-2 hours

Skill level: Some experience necessary

Supplies and Tools:

1 yard lightly colored linen

Scissors

Fabric dye

Basic sewing supplies

Sewing machine

Freezer paper

Pencil

Iron & pressing surface

Fabric paint/sponge brush

Optional: Plastic stencil or stamps

Cut 20-inch-by-20-inch squares of linen, and then dip dye end of one side (using instructions on dye).

Once dying is done and dry, hem around entire square napkin.

For lettering stencils, draw letters on freezer paper, cut them out carefully, and iron freezer paper onto fabric, shiny side down. Carefully sponge paint over freezer paper stencil. (Optional: Use plastic stencil or stamps for lettering).

Allow paint to dry completely. Remove freezer paper.

Bean BagsProject courtesy of Meg Padgett, www.revamphomegoods.com

Craftingtime: 1-2 hours

Skill level: Some experience necessary

Supplies and Tools:

Supplies and Tools:

Duck cloth, outdoor or heavy-duty decor fabric

Scissors

Basic sewing supplies

Sewing machine

Dried beans or corn for filling

To make three bean bags, cut out six 4 1/2-inch squares.

Place right sides of two pieces of fabric together and pin three sides in place.

Double stitch a 1/4-inch seam around three sides.

Turn bag right side out and fill 3/4 full with dried beans or corn.

Fold in rough edges and pin opening closed.

Double stitch a 1/4–inch seam to close bag.

Repeat for remaining bags.