Follow these easy instructions to make a unique and beautiful wind chime using ordinary household items and craft supplies. Included are decorating ideas and suggestions.
For this project you will need scissors, 2 large sheets of heavy-duty cardboard (about 18 inches by 8 inches), a heavy duty sheet of poster board, string or clear thread, tape, a heavy-duty paper punch, craft glue, a pencil, and items to create sound. You can use items such as old flatware, large nails, screw-on metal lids, keys, shells, or any other objects that would create a pleasing sound. Enamel paint or acrylic paint, glitter, and paintbrushes are optional.
Begin by making the top of the wind chime. Draw and cut out triangles approximately 18 inches wide by 8 inches tall. They should be exactly the same. You then need to locate the exact center of the first triangle and make a 4 inch slit from the straight edge towards the point. On the other triangle, make the 4 inch slit from the point towards the straight edge.
Next, you will need to punch holes about 1-½ inches apart all the way across the bottom edges of both triangles. Position them approximately ¾ of an inch above the edge. Put glue on the edges of the 4-inch slits, and fit the pieces together. Set it aside to dry. Optionally, you can paint the cardboard pieces if desired.
Now you will need to make a 5-inch by 1 ½ inch strip of poster board for every hole punched in the cardboard. A heavy-duty paper punch will work nicely for this. Be sure to punch the holes about ¼ inch from the edges. That will help prevent the strings from pulling through due to the weight of the objects that will be suspended there.
Cut the same number of strings or threads to match the number of holes in the top piece. Make them approximately 14 inches long, and be sure they are exactly the same lengths. Tie the strings or threads to the top piece, and then tie them to the upper hole in each strip of poster board. Thread them down through the second hole, and tie on the items you have chosen for your wind chime.
Optionally you can paint the hanging items for your chime before you tie them on. Use either spray enamel paints or enamel paints that are used typically for model cars. They will provide a tough, long-lasting finish. Be sure to do this in a well-ventilated area, and remember to protect your work surface. Allow the items plenty of time to dry before hanging them.
Seashells look especially nice when they have been painted with a thin coating of acrylic latex paint. They can also be adorned with a touch of glitter for added brilliance and sparkle. Set them aside to dry completely before tying them on.
Place your wind chime in a window or doorway where it will be caught by a gentle breeze. Consider making these wind chimes as gifts for family and friends. Everyone will love the sounds made by ordinary household items, and the beauty created by your artistic touch.
