Make a Unique Father's Day Gift - A Memory Capsule
A Thoughtful Homemade Gift to Make for Father’s Day
Jun 10, 2009
Like a time capsule, a memory capsule holds items from a particular era. In contrast however, a memory capsule contains items that recollect a variety of time frames and may be proudly displayed on a dresser or shelf instead of being buried in the ground.
First, have your children make a list about their most memorable events with dad. Then next to each memory, make a note of simple material items that represent these memories. For example, a particular memory at the beach may incorporate a mini capsule of sand and a seashell.
In addition to or instead of material items, draw pictures of these memories on miniature pieces of paper and fold them up. Also, write simple poems and short stories about these memories. After all of these items have been gathered, create the memory capsule.
Memory Capsule Instructions
Items Needed:
- A cardboard or wooden box, or an empty, clean spaghetti sauce jar
- Family photos
- Construction paper
- White glue
- Water
- Paintbrush
- Popsicle stick
- Stickers
- Markers
- Colored pencils
- Ribbon
Directions:
- Decorate the box or spaghetti jar using family photos and construction paper embellished with drawings.
- Cut out the paper and photos in interesting shapes using cookie cutters if needed as templates.
- After the pictures have been prepared, water down the white glue and place into a bowl.
- Using the paintbrush, coat the backside of the papers and photos, one at a time and then place in the desired spot on the box or jar.
- On additional smaller pieces of construction paper, write down the place or time frame which describes the memories your capsule will hold.
- After the pictures and photos have dried, glue these words all around the jar in a random pattern.
- After all the glue has dried, decorate the capsule further by attaching stickers to it.
- Next cut a length of ribbon that will be used to tie around the jar as decoration or around the box to keep it closed. Place ribbon aside.
- Gather together your time capsule items and if there is room enough inside your box, place each set inside a piece of tissue paper and tie each set closed with a ribbon.
- If using a jar, simply place each memory item inside the jar.
- Place the lid on your capsule and seal it closed.
A memory capsule can not only bring back many happy memories but also create new ones in the simple process of making and giving it. As a special addition, every year add new items such as souvenirs, photos or journal writings of special times together. This memory capsule is a Father’s Day gift that not only lasts a lifetime but encapsulates a lifetime.
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