One simple craft turns any birthday party into a good time, guaranteed. But you don't have to trudge to the store for supplies -- chances are you've already got what you need. Paper bags, cardboard scraps, and small boxes become jewelry, toys, and partywear when kids decorate them with items you've scavenged from around the house. Just set a table filled with inspiring odds and ends, such as buttons, trimmings, stickers, even drinking straws, along with scissors and glue.

Get kids started by cutting basic shapes, such as flowers, beforehand. Then leave it up to them to create a favor that's sure to be their favorite. See below for instructions on crafting party hats and bracelets, or try other easy creations like picture frames, brooches, cars, flowers, or masks.

Use What You Have On Hand
Here are some ideas for everyday items you can use for embellishing.
Buttons
Fabric scraps
Wrapping paper
Wallpaper samples
Tissue paper
Crepe paper
Stickers
Sequins
Trimmings
Yarn
Glitter
Colored tape
Newspaper
Rubber bands

Party Hat How-To
Let party guests put their own crowning touch on the occasion by creating festive hats from paper and materials from a junk drawer. Print the template onto legal-size paper; trace onto sturdy paper and cut out. Overlap ends by 1/2 inch, and tape.