November 1, 2019
Gr 1-3-Multiple techniques and materials are presented in most of these projects, so readers will be reaching for their paint, glue, paper clay, string, and/or pipe cleaners. Nearly any craft supply can be used to embellish penguins made from egg cartons or to make paper tube mermaids or to create cardboard communities. Instructions contain four to eight steps, with an average of one photo per step illustrating the final creation. Not all egg cartons, boxes, or tubes are the same, so a little improvisation will be necessary to reproduce the results shown. The crafts are executed at a fairly high level but are still attainable. In particular, painted details are kept convincingly childlike. In particular, the monster bank looks silly rather than sinister. A few additional items are required to transform recyclable materials into projects. String and other minor consumables add texture. VERDICT This series showcases fun ways to make low-cost crafts and will satisfy makers of all ages.
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