DIY Life

I know, paper cups are bad, and I am bad if I use them. What if I reuse them? Can I redeem myself just a little?

If you've got paper cups kicking around, there are all sorts of ways that they can be re-purposed into cool Kiddie Crafts. Just this afternoon, I went to the pantry for some dried pasta and realized that there was only a very little bit left. I also came across some leftover party cups that I'd stashed away. What do you do with pasta and paper cups? Make maracas of course!

After the break I'll tell you how, share another paper cup craft that we tried, and point you to a few more that I think pass the kiddie craft test (simple, inexpensive, fun, and easily modified for different ages).

Like many other Americans, this Friday I'll be heading off to a cookout to celebrate Independence Day. I'm rather relieved that I'm not hosting -- just bringing a dessert! -- as I'm looking forward to enjoying the day in the pool with my little one.

If you're hosting, and want to bring that special DIY touch to your party, try making some personalized drinking cups for your guests. Why would you do such a thing?

• Your guests will be less likely to misplace their cups, meaning less clean-up for you.
• Maybe your children are old enough to make them, effectively keeping them out of your hair while you're preparing for the party.
• They're festive and memorable.
• Everyone loves gingham!

Join me after the break for details on how to create these red, white, and blue stunners.

I love disco balls. They are delightfully tasteless, but, like the lava lamp they have their place. Whether you're decking out the dorm room or looking for something unique in your living-room, this is a simple project that is sure to get guests talking. Here's what you'll need to build a Christmas disco ball:

1. Coat hanger
2. 50 SOLO 9oz clear plastic cups
3. 150 multicolor mini Christmas lights with a controler
4. Soldering iron

The author of this article uses colored Christmas lights, but I imagine that white lights would work well too. They would probably give a softer sparkle, so you can choose based on what style you're going for. The full instructions teach you how to make this Christmas disco creation. Put one together this weekend and it will look great over Christmas and carry you right through the New Year's party.