Patriotic crafts light up the holiday

Families who enjoy making crafts as part of their Fourth of July celebrations might like two projects my family and I have enjoyed over the years. They’re both fun and simple to make.

For a red, white and blue lantern, start with a clean glass jar. Mix equal parts white glue and water, then brush the mixture onto the outside of the jar. Press small pieces of red, white and blue tissue paper onto the glue, creating stripes, a flag pattern or a mosaic design. Let the jar dry completely, then place a battery-operated tea light inside so children can enjoy the glow safely.

For a homemade motion lamp, fill a clear glass jar about one-third full with water, then add vegetable oil until the jar is nearly full. Any inexpensive cooking oil works well, and this is a good way to use the last bit from an older bottle you no longer plan to cook with. Add drops of red and blue food coloring and, for white, small drops of washable white paint, taking care not to stir. Break an antacid tablet into pieces and drop them in one at a time. As the pieces dissolve, bubbles move the colors through the oil, creating a glowing, bubbling effect similar to a lava lamp. For the best effect, turn down the lights and set a small light behind the jar to watch the colorful motion.