Create Your Own Patriotic Bike Decorations
When my kids see an American flag, I want them to know that it is a symbol of our country. Furthermore, I want them to understand that we have freedom, rights and opportunities in our country. Instilling patriotic values is important to me. Making crafts and singing songs are all patriotic activities. Making American-themed, homemade bike decorations are one fun way to promote patriotism in your home. Here are three ideas to jazz up your bike with red, white and blue.
Red, White and Blue Bike Streamers
Materials:
1. Red, white and blue curling ribbon
2. Scissors
3. Twine or thin wire
Directions:
Add a little patriotic flair to your child's bike with red, white and blue bike streamers. Cut four one-foot strips of each color ribbon. Then, take scissors and curl the ribbon. Each streamer should have six ribbons. For extra pizazz, use metallic ribbon. Bind the ribbon together with some thin twine or wire. Push the end of the streamer through the hole at the end of the handle bar grips. For some bikes, you may need to purchase handle bar plugs.
Felt Flags
Materials:
1. Red, white and blue felt
2. Silver or white sequins
3. Fabric scissors
4. Felt Glue
5. Dowel
6. One-inch masking tape
Directions:
First, cut the white felt into rectangles. Then, cut the blue into squares. Next, cut red felt into one inch strips. Make a pocket for a dowel by placing a line of felt glue along the end of the felt. Fold it over and allow to dry. Next, adhere the blue square onto the top left corner of your white rectangle. Afterward, put sequins onto the blue square for the stars. Alternate strips of masking tape with red strips of felt. After gluing down the stripes, allow your flag to dry. Finally, stick the dowel in the pocket and remove the masking tape. Attach the flag to your bike bucket with masking tape or velcro.
Crepe Paper and Pinwheels
Materials:
1. Crepe Paper Streamers
2. Pinwheels
3. Tape
4. Velcro
Directions
Wrap red, white and blue streamers tightly around the frame of the bike. Alternate colors in a pattern and secure with tape. Then, weave the crepe paper streamers between spokes to add color to the wheel. Make sure that the crepe paper is attached tightly so it won't unwind when the wheels start spinning. Finally, secure metallic pinwheels to the front of a bike basket with velcro.
You can use one of these decorating ideas or combine all of them for a patriotic bicycle. You will certainly inspire people with these American details.
Content by Melissa Matters.
