6. Classic Folding Hand Fans
Beat the summer heat with a classic folding hand fan that combines historical paper-folding techniques with sturdy wooden handles. This craft is highly interactive and allows children to experiment with paper folding, symmetry, and decorative design. You will need two wide craft sticks, a sheet of sturdy construction paper or lightweight cardstock measuring approximately six inches by eighteen inches, a single brass paper fastener (brad), a hole punch, and decorative mediums like watercolors, markers, or stamps.
First, decorate the entire sheet of paper with bright, summery patterns on both sides. Once the designs are dry, fold the paper accordion-style, making creases about every half-inch along the entire length of the sheet. Gather the folded paper together and punch a hole through the bottom of the entire stack. Next, drill or punch a small hole near the bottom end of both wooden craft sticks. Thread the brass fastener through the hole of one stick, then through the punched holes of the folded paper, and finally through the second wooden stick, bending the metal prongs flat to secure them together. Glue the outer pleats of the paper fan to the top halves of the wooden sticks. When you pull the two handles apart, the paper unfolds into a beautiful, functional fan that kids can use to cool themselves down.