Now, sugar, I’ve been known to make a wreath out of bottle caps and a lamp out of an old teapot, so trust me when I say—anything can become art. All you need is curiosity and the courage to try. Here are some fun ways to shake things up this August:

1. Paint with Unusual Tools

Who says you need a fancy brush? Try painting with a feather, a sponge, a bundle of cotton swabs, or even a fork! Dip your “brush” in paint and see what kind of textures and patterns appear. It’s fun, messy, and might just inspire a whole new style.

2. Try Nature Printmaking

Head outside and collect leaves, flowers, or ferns. Brush them lightly with paint and press them onto paper or fabric for beautiful prints. You can make your own nature-inspired wrapping paper, cards, or even wall art.

3. Make Sculptures with Recyclables

Dig into the recycling bin for cans, cardboard, plastic lids, and more. Glue, tape, and paint your way into creating robots, animals, or abstract art. It’s a great way to reuse what you already have—and stretch your imagination at the same time.

4. Mix Your Materials

Ever tried combining fabric with wood? Or paper with clay? Mixing materials can open up a whole new world of creativity. Sew fabric scraps onto canvas, decoupage paper onto a wooden tray, or glue yarn onto cardboard to make textured wall hangings.

5. Journal Outside the Lines

Instead of keeping your crafts tidy and “perfect,” give yourself permission to play. Make a creativity journal where you glue scraps, doodle freely, write down wild ideas, and paste in photos or quotes. Let it be messy and full of life—just like August!

6. Invite Others to Join In

Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone is easier with company. Host a craft night where everyone tries a new medium—watercolors, air-dry clay, fabric dye, or even candle-making. You’ll learn from each other, laugh at the flops, and cheer for the successes.

August reminds us that change can be beautiful—and so can our bold, messy, colorful creations. Don’t be afraid to try something new, even if it feels a little strange at first. Every splatter, smudge, or “oops” is just part of the process. So gather your supplies (whatever they may be), roll up those sleeves, and let August be your month to grow, create, and explore.

Go ahead now—push those boundaries and make something wonderfully unexpected. You got this, darlin’!

The post August Adventures in Art: Try Something New and Get Crafty! first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

First up: dresses and sets are stealing the spotlight. Think flowy maxi dresses with bold floral prints, or matching crop top and skirt combos in tropical patterns. Lightweight linen and cotton keep you cool while still looking effortlessly put-together. And don’t be afraid of color—sunset orange, electric blue, and citrusy lime are the shades of the season!

On your feet, comfort meets cool. Platform sandals are the must-have shoe this summer. Whether they’re in cork, jelly, or sporty neoprene, they add a little height and a lot of fun. Want something more laid-back? Slide into chunky clogs or colorful espadrilles for an easy, stylish option.

Let’s not forget sunglasses! Oversized shades in funky shapes—think hearts, stars, or even tinted aviators—are the ultimate summer vibe. They’re the perfect way to protect your eyes and boost your style game.

And finally, no summer outfit is complete without a little sparkle. This year, it’s all about shell jewelry. Necklaces, anklets, and earrings adorned with tiny shells, pearls, and beads bring major beachy energy—even if you’re just heading to downtown Bedford.

So go ahead, soak up the sun and let your style shine. Summer in Bedford is your runway, and the trends are all about having fun, feeling good, and making bold fashion moves!

The post Sunkissed & Stylish: Bedford’s Hottest Summer Fashion Trends first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Crafting wind chimes from nature is simple, relaxing, and gives new life to the things you collect—like shells, sticks, feathers, and smooth stones. Each piece tells a story, and together they make something beautiful that dances and jingles in the wind.

What You’ll Need

• Sturdy stick or small branch (for the top bar)
• Twine, string, or fishing line
• Natural items: shells, acorns, feathers, driftwood, pinecones, pebbles with holes, or even dried seed pods
• A nail or small drill (for making holes, if needed)
• Scissors

Let’s Get Started!

1. Pick Your Treasures:
Go on a little nature hunt—whether it’s at the park, the beach, or your own backyard. Look for items that can hang and catch the wind. Flat shells and small pieces of driftwood work great. If your rocks don’t have holes, you can wrap wire or twine tightly around them to hang them securely.

2. Prep Your Base:
Take your stick or branch and clean it up. You can paint it if you like, or leave it natural for a rustic look. Tie a piece of twine to each end to make a hanger so you can display your chime later.

3. Attach Your Finds:
Cut different lengths of string or twine. Tie one end of each to your nature treasures and the other end to your branch. Mix up the sizes and textures—maybe a feather here, a shell there, and a smooth stone in between.

4. Test the Sound:
Gently blow on your chime or hang it in a breezy spot to hear its music. Some pieces will clink, some might rustle—it’s all part of the charm.

5. Make It Your Own:
Add beads, painted touches, or write a little memory or word on your items. This chime isn’t just pretty—it’s a story of your summer adventures.

Wind chimes made from nature’s gifts are more than just decorations—they’re reminders of time well spent, of walks taken, of quiet moments outdoors. Every little jingle in the wind brings a bit of peace and beauty to your porch, patio, or garden.

So next time you’re out and about, keep an eye out for nature’s little treasures. Gather ’em up, get crafty, and let your summer memories sing in the breeze. Happy crafting, darlin’!

The post Summer Sounds: Crafting Wind Chimes from Nature’s Treasures first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Dads have this quiet power. Like rain, they shape us over time—in ways we don’t always notice until we’ve grown a little taller, a little stronger. They don’t always stop the storm, but they sure know how to make it bearable. They’ll toss us an umbrella, or maybe just shrug and say, “Race you to the car!” Either way, they remind us that getting a little wet isn’t the worst thing.

They teach us that it’s okay to jump in puddles now and then, to laugh when things go sideways, and to keep moving forward—even when the path is muddy. Their wisdom tends to sneak up on us, often wrapped in humor or a casual, “You’ll understand when you’re older.” And just like the soft rhythm of rain on the roof, those words stick with us long after the storm has passed.

Sure, dads can be as unpredictable as the forecast. One minute they’re thundering with excitement over a game, the next they’re the calm drizzle of reassurance when we’re lost or unsure. But no matter the weather, their presence is grounding. They show us that strength isn’t about avoiding the rain—it’s about learning how to dance in it, splash through it, and come out stronger on the other side.

Because some of life’s best lessons don’t come in the sunshine—they come when we’re soaked, stumbling, and still smiling… thanks to Dad.

The post Rain or Shine, Dads Show Us the Way first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Rainbow Sun Catchers

Let that sunshine in—with color! To make your own rainbow sun catcher, grab a clear plastic lid (like from a yogurt container), some tissue paper in different shades, and glue. Cut the tissue paper into small pieces and glue them onto the lid in a rainbow pattern or your own colorful design. Once it’s dry, punch a hole at the top, add some string, and hang it in a sunny window. It’ll shine with color just like the beautiful people in your life!

2. “World of Hands” Paper Wreath

This craft is a sweet way to celebrate diversity. Trace your hand on different colors of construction paper and cut out several hand shapes. You can even ask friends and family to trace theirs too! Glue the hands in a circle to form a wreath. In the center, write something like “We All Belong” or “Hands Together, Hearts United.” Hang it up as a reminder of how beautiful our differences are.

3. Cultural Windsocks

Windsocks are so fun for summer—and you can use them to learn about different cultures, too! Use an empty paper towel roll or a tin can with the bottom removed. Decorate the outside with symbols, colors, or patterns inspired by a culture you admire. Attach long strips of fabric, ribbon, or tissue paper to the bottom. Hang them on your porch or in the backyard and let the breeze carry your creativity.

4. Nature Friendship Bracelets

Head outside and collect small flowers, leaves, or grass. Use tape or contact paper to make a sticky strip (sticky side out), wrap it around your wrist, and gently press the natural items onto it. These little bracelets are a beautiful way to celebrate summer and the unique gifts nature offers to everyone—no matter where you’re from.

5. Painted Rock Messages

Find smooth stones and paint them with positive words like “peace,” “love,” “unity,” or “kind.” You can also paint flags, symbols, or designs that represent your heritage or someone else’s culture. Once dry, leave your rocks around the neighborhood, park, or school. You never know who might find your message and smile.

June is the perfect month to craft with meaning—mixing summer sunshine with heartfelt messages of love and inclusion. Whether you’re making rainbow sun catchers or windsocks inspired by faraway places, these simple projects help us celebrate who we are and who we share this beautiful world with. So grab your glue and paint, and let’s craft a summer full of kindness and color!

The post Sunshine & Unity: DIY Summer Crafts That Celebrate Diversity first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Tin Can Herb Garden

Don’t throw away those empty soup cans—turn them into a charming herb garden! Rinse out the cans and remove the labels. Use acrylic paint or scrapbook paper to decorate the outside. Punch a few small drainage holes in the bottom, then fill them with soil and plant herbs like basil, mint, or parsley. Line them up on a sunny windowsill, and you’ll have fresh herbs all season long!

2. T-Shirt Tote Bags

Got an old t-shirt that’s too worn to wear? Transform it into a reusable shopping bag! Cut off the sleeves and neckline, then turn the shirt inside out and sew or tie the bottom shut. Flip it right side out, and you’ve got a sturdy, eco-friendly tote perfect for grocery runs or beach trips. No sewing machine? No problem! A simple knotting method works just as well.

3. Bottle Cap Garden Markers

Help keep your garden organized with homemade markers! Collect metal or plastic bottle caps and paint them with bright colors. Write the names of your plants on them using a permanent marker or acrylic paint. Glue them onto small sticks or old forks, then place them in your garden. Not only do they help you keep track of what you planted, but they also add a touch of whimsy to your outdoor space.

4. Upcycled Magazine Coasters

Instead of tossing out old magazines, turn them into colorful coasters! Tear out pages, roll them into tight coils, and glue them together in a circle. Seal them with Mod Podge or clear glue to make them water-resistant. These handmade coasters are perfect for adding a splash of color to your table while keeping waste out of landfills.

5. Egg Carton Flower Wreath

Egg cartons are great for crafting! Cut the cups apart and shape them into flowers by trimming the edges into petals. Paint them in bright spring colors and let them dry. Glue the flowers onto a cardboard ring or an old wire hanger shaped into a circle. Hang it on your front door for a beautiful, recycled springtime wreath.

6. Glass Jar Lanterns

Turn old glass jars into stunning outdoor lanterns. Wash and dry the jars, then decorate them with twine, pressed flowers, or bits of lace. Drop in a small candle or battery-powered fairy lights for a magical glow. These make perfect patio decorations for warm May evenings!

Crafting with recycled materials is a great way to celebrate sustainability while making unique, handmade creations. Whether you’re planting herbs in cans, upcycling t-shirts, or making garden markers from bottle caps, you’re giving new life to old items and helping the planet in the process. So get crafty, go green, and enjoy a creative, earth-friendly May!

The post Crafting Green: DIY Recycled Crafts for a Sustainable May first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Let’s start at the top: headwear is having a moment! Ditch the basic ballcap and try something with a little flair. Berets in pastel hues, wide-brimmed straw hats, or even retro-style silk scarves tied around your hair add an effortlessly chic touch. Feeling bold? Bucket hats in funky prints or embroidered visors make for fun statement pieces.

Moving down, bags are getting a playful refresh. The bowling bag is making a comeback—structured, roomy, and perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle. Choose a bright color or a fun pattern to give your outfit a pop. Want to add even more personality? Clip on some bag charms! Think vintage keychains, pom-poms, or even little stuffed animals to give your bag a whimsical twist.

And don’t forget the jewelry! This spring, mixed metals are stealing the show. Layer gold and silver chains together, stack rings in different finishes, or mix warm copper with cool platinum. The key is embracing contrast—it’s modern, edgy, and completely unique to your style.

So, Bedford fashionistas, let’s step into spring with confidence and a little bit of quirk. After all, accessorizing is where the fun really begins!

The post Spring Accessorizing: Quirky, Chic & Full of Personality! first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

What started in 2020 as a simple act of positivity by Jeep owner Allison Parliament has blossomed into a global phenomenon. It’s as easy as placing a rubber duck on a fellow Jeep, along with a note of encouragement or admiration. What’s even more delightful is how this small gesture has evolved. Many Jeep enthusiasts now proudly display their growing collections of ducks on their dashboards, each one a reminder of a kind moment shared with a stranger.

Why does this matter? Because it reminds us how little it takes to put a smile on someone’s face. A tiny duck, a cheerful note, and suddenly, someone’s day is a bit brighter.

So, whether you’re already part of the Jeep community or just want to join in the fun, grab a few rubber duckies and start spreading some joy. You never know whose day you might turn around.

Let’s keep the positivity rolling (and quacking)! 

The post Spreading Smiles, One Rubber Duck at a Time first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Eggshell Planters

Instead of tossing out eggshells after breakfast, turn them into mini planters! Carefully crack the top of an egg, rinse out the shell, and let it dry. Fill it with a little soil and plant small seeds like grass, flowers, or even herbs. Place them in an egg carton and watch them grow. You can also decorate the shells with paint or markers for extra Easter charm!

2. Bunny Ear Headbands

Make your own Easter bunny ears using pipe cleaners, an old headband, and some felt or fabric scraps. Twist the pipe cleaners into ear shapes and attach them to the headband. Wrap them with soft fabric or felt to make them extra cute. Add a little bow or a cotton ball tail to complete the look. These are perfect for Easter egg hunts or family photos!

3. Sock Bunnies

Got an old sock with no match? Turn it into a cute Easter bunny! Fill the sock with rice or dried beans, then tie a rubber band around the top to create a round body. Use another rubber band to shape the head. Cut the top of the sock into two ears and fluff them out. Glue on buttons or draw a face with a marker. Tie a ribbon around its neck for the perfect finishing touch!

4. Easter Egg Garland

Brighten up your home with an easy egg garland! Cut egg shapes from colorful scrapbook paper, old magazines, or even fabric scraps. Punch holes at the top of each egg and thread them onto a string or ribbon. Hang it across your mantel, doorway, or window for a festive touch.

5. Paper Plate Chick and Bunny Faces

Paper plates make great Easter crafts for kids! For a chick, paint the plate yellow, add googly eyes, and glue on an orange paper beak and feather tufts. For a bunny, paint the plate white, glue on pink paper ears, and draw on a cute bunny face. These make adorable decorations or fun Easter masks!

6. Nature-Inspired Egg Dyeing

Skip the store-bought egg dye and use natural ingredients instead! Boil eggs with onion skins for a golden color, beet juice for pink, or spinach for green. For a unique touch, place a small leaf or flower against the egg, wrap it in pantyhose, and dip it in the dye. The result is a beautiful, natural Easter egg design!

Easter is all about celebrating new beginnings, and what better way to do that than with handmade crafts? Whether you’re making sock bunnies, growing eggshell planters, or dyeing eggs with nature’s colors, these simple projects bring joy to the holiday. So gather your supplies, get creative, and have a “hoppy” Easter!

The post Hoppy Easter: Simple DIY Crafts for a Creative Celebration first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Pressed Flower Bookmarks or Artwork

Spring flowers are starting to bloom, and one of the best ways to preserve their beauty is by pressing them. Find small flowers or leaves and place them between two sheets of wax paper inside a heavy book. After a week or two, they’ll be dry and ready to use! Take a strip of cardstock or recycled cardboard, glue the pressed flowers onto it, and cover it with clear packing tape or laminate it for durability. Punch a hole at the top and tie a ribbon for a charming handmade bookmark. Likewise, you can create a pretty design and glue or modge podge onto cardstock and then frame it.

2. Twig Picture Frames

Nature is full of wonderful materials just waiting to be turned into something special. Twigs can be used to create a rustic picture frame that adds a touch of the outdoors to any home. Find small, sturdy twigs and cut them to fit around a piece of cardboard or an old picture frame. Use hot glue to attach the twigs, layering them for a textured look. Once dry, insert a favorite photo or a drawing, and you’ve got a beautiful, nature-inspired frame!

3. Pinecone Bird Feeders

March is a great time to show some love to the birds returning for spring. Make a simple bird feeder by collecting pinecones, spreading peanut butter or honey over them, and rolling them in birdseed. Tie a piece of twine around the top and hang them from a tree branch. Not only will this bring more birds to your yard, but it’s also a fun and easy craft for all ages.

4. Rock Painting Fun

Rocks are one of nature’s best crafting supplies, and they’re everywhere! Collect smooth, flat stones and use acrylic paints to turn them into colorful works of art. Paint flowers, ladybugs, or even inspirational words to brighten someone’s day. Once dry, you can place them around your garden, use them as paperweights, or leave them in public places as little surprises for others to find.

5. Spring Leaf Prints

Leaves come in so many shapes and sizes, making them perfect for crafting. Dip fresh leaves in paint and press them onto paper or fabric to create beautiful prints. You can even use fabric paint to make leaf-printed tote bags or tea towels. This simple craft is a great way to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside.

6. Nature Wreaths

Make a lovely spring wreath using vines, twigs, or flexible branches. Form a circle with your natural materials and weave in flowers, leaves, or dried herbs for a seasonal touch. Hang it on your door or inside your home for a simple yet beautiful decoration.

March is a time of new beginnings, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by crafting with nature. Whether you’re pressing flowers, painting rocks, or making bird feeders, these projects bring the beauty of the outdoors into your home. So take a walk, gather some supplies, and let your creativity bloom with the season. Happy crafting!

The post March into Nature: Crafting with the Beauty of Spring first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.