Craft of the Week: Not a Fan of Heat

Crafts are a great way to exercise your artistic side but they are also very useful at bringing people together. 

Each week, we will post a simple and easy project for your enjoyment. This is a great opportunity for you to reconnect with your friends and family while enjoying a weekly craft night. 

Paper Fan
If you can't stand the heat, then get out of the kitchen! Unfortunately, it is hard to leave the proverbial kitchen when the "kitchen" is a heatwave affecting all of Southern California.

But never fear! Crafts can save your from the clasps of heat stoke. Despite their elaborate appearance, paper fans are incredibly easy to make and can significantly affect how you feel in scorching heat. 

What You Need

• 6 Sheets of Letter-sized Paper (color of your choice)
• Glue Stick
• Clear Tape
• Two Wooden Sticks 
• Hot Glue or Other Strong Adhesive

Step 1
Use your glue stick to attach the 6 sheets of paper together lengthwise so that you have one long sheet of paper. 

Step 2
Beginning at one of end of the sheet, begin to accordion fold. Accordion folds are parallel but fold in alternate directions.

Step 3
Continue folding for the entire length of the paper. 

Step 4
Once completely folded, pinch one end of the paper and tape together. You can cut off any excess or difference in length on either side of  the fan.

Step 5
Using your hot glue gun, adhere your sticks to the two ends of the fan as shown. At least an inch of excess should extend beyond the edge of the fan that is opposite to the tape side.

Step 6
Slowly and carefully open your fan. 

Step 7
Decorate your fan to your desired specifications.

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Fun Tip: It is always nice to have a fan of your own, but this fan craft also makes a great gift to others. If you are having a summer wedding, birthday, or party, these simple fans make a for an elegant and easy party favor!