Our Art Center’s ever-creative Emily Coyne shares this sweetly nostalgic homemade gift that will make dad feel like an MVP!

What you’ll need:

• Colored construction paper (at least two different colors)*
  Ruler
  Pencil with eraser
  Scissors
  Glue stick (preferred, but Elmer’s glue will work too!)

  *If you only have plain white paper, use your favorite coloring tools (crayons, markers) to add some color. You can color freely on your paper and then collage as instructed, or draw directly on your pennant.

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1. Choose your colors! Pick at least two colors that will contrast nicely, so your design really pops! One will be your background and the other(s) will be for your words and other elements.
2. Create your pennant! The shape of a pennant is an elongated triangle. Most construction paper is 9" x 12.” If your paper is a different size, you can follow the same instructions, but may need to adjust the measurements to get the right proportions. We’ll start by turning the paper horizontally and marking the center on both the left and right side of the paper. On the left side, measure and mark 3” above and below the center mark. Now connect the marks to create a triangle. Place your ruler on a diagonal from the top mark on the left side to the center mark on the right, and draw a connecting line. Do the same for the bottom left mark to the center right. Now you can cut out your elongated triangle. (Save the scrap pieces for another project.)

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3. Add words and details! Most pennants have a left border edge—you can create one with your contrasting paper by simply cutting a narrow strip a bit bigger than the widest part of your pennant. For your letters, you might want to sketch lightly on your pennant first to get a rough idea of your composition. Using a second piece of the paper you choose in Step 1, lightly draw your letters, making sure you measure them out so they fit. Once you’ve completed your design, cut out your letters and gently erase any pencil marks left behind. Place your cut-out letters onto your pennant to make sure they fit, making adjustments if necessary. Once all of the pieces have been cut out and checked for placement, glue them in place!*

   

*If cutting out letters is too advanced for your little ones, you can write/draw your message directly on your pennant.

Use the back of the pennant to write Dad a little message or note of appreciation. Make sure to sign and date your work so he can cherish it for years to come!

Love from Emily