Using Leftover Toys

As a parent, your inclination may be to toss these pieces, but don't do it. Put them on display instead. This frame makes good use of children's trinkets without throwing them away.

Crafter Carol Scheffler suggests recycling children's toys by using them to decorate a picture frame or even a mirror.

Trinket Picture Frame

Materials:

plaster of Paris
water
plain picture frame
children's trinkets (gumball machine items, puzzle pieces, game pieces, etc.)

Steps:

1. In a mixing bowl, mix water into plaster of Paris until it is the consistency of cream. Be careful not to let it sit out for long because it sets up fast.
   
   
2. With a spoon, dab a small amount of the plaster onto the frame, then imbed a single trinket into the plaster. Again, do this before the plaster sets on the frame.
   
   
3. Once the frame is covered, let it set at least one hour. If there are pieces that won't cooperate, a dab of craft glue should do the trick.

Resources
Family Crafting: Fun Projects to Do Together
by Carol Scheffler
Sterling Publishing Company, Inc., 2000
Order this title from Amazon.com.

Guests
Carol Scheffler
Craft Expert / Arts & Crafts Editor, Parents magazine / Today Show Contributor
E-mail: carol.scheffler@joann.com
Also in this Episode

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-429
•	Rosemary Focaccia Bread
•	Using Leftover Toys
•	Facial Masks
•	Smart Solutions of the Day