Guide
Making sea creatures from found objects
by Sabrina Müller
Create a dwarf revolt
27.3.2020
Translation: machine translated
In many recently created "family businesses", it is hardly possible to think about working regularly. The children demand their rights, which is not compatible with teleworking. With this little DIY idea, you can cut boredom short.
One of them seems a bit arrogant and grumpy, but is still friendly. The next one seems curious, as if he wants to stick his long nose everywhere. And the thin one over there is smiling mischievously into his mossy beard. Nobody was laughing here a few hours ago. Not the gnomes under the tree in the garden, nor us in the flat, where the mood barometer was plummeting.
Leaving nursery and primary school children to look after themselves is almost impossible. And it wouldn't be fair. They need inspiration for their creativity to flourish. That's why they need something to do together from time to time, and new ideas are in demand almost every day. The idea for the gnomes came to me in December on the Advent trail around the Rentierhof in Dachsen. In the tenth window, a merry horde in colourful hats was strolling.
Killing two birds with one stone
I photographed the little creatures of the forest back in the day and had forgotten about them ever since. Until I was faced with the question of what I could do with children as a left-handed person who has two right hands for DIY. Gnomes are perfect, as they can be used to achieve two daily goals at once. Going out as a group to collect materials. And creating something together. With the exception of a pocket knife and some craft paint or or artist paint, you don't need anything else. If you don't have paint, felt pens will also do.
All right, anyone with a forest nearby has a distinct advantage. But even in the park next door or in your own garden, you can certainly find a few sticks on the ground with branches. Whether they are thin or thick, fresh or rotten is secondary. Also collect some moss, pine cones and bark for the hut. Preparations for a new gnome colony are complete.
Sculpt, paint, shine
The story of the dwarf faces is a story full of surprises. As I try to orient myself to the models in the photo, the children upset my plans. The eldest is concentrating on sculpting the future noses and the three little ones from our private daycare group are adding colour. In the end, trumpet noses and long noses that go in all directions are born. All are smiling peacefully and as relaxed as we are in the March sunshine. With long eyelashes and pointed beards, painted or made of moss,
This may not be the most cunning of dwarf families, but it's ours. Individual and original. Created together. That's all that matters. Despite all the difficulties that everyday life currently entails, many parents also receive something in return: lots of extra time with their children and the experience of being able to achieve many things together. Unique dwarfs that will eventually disappear and memories that will last.
Michael Restin
Senior Editor
Michael.Restin@digitecgalaxus.chSimple writer and dad of two who likes to be on the move, wading through everyday family life. Juggling several balls, I'll occasionally drop one. It could be a ball, or a remark. Or both.
Family
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