Hobbies And Interests
Mosaic Coasters
For an interesting craft that can be useful to just about anyone, create a set of mosaic coasters. Place hickory nut shells in a plastic bag. Pound them with a hammer until broken into small pieces ranging in size from a quarter to the head of a thumb tack. Mix a batch of mosaic stone cement and place it into a coaster-sized mold. Create a mosaic with the pieces of the hickory nut shells. Make it look authentic by using pieces of differing sizes. Experiment with different designs and patterns as you make a set.
Rattle
Making a rattle out of hickory nuts as a craft project for youngsters. Just prepare for the loud results. Find any type of metal or cardboard container. Examples include circular oatmeal packages, shoe boxes and individual sized milk cartons. Fill the container with hickory nuts and glue it shut. Decorate the rattle with paint, glitter or whatever items you choose. Have the children create different sized rattles using a different number of nuts and experiment with the different types of sounds they emit.
Nut Wreath
A nut wreath is a craft project that lasts for years, unlike a traditional pine wreath. Find various size wreath forms at your local craft store. First, attach a loop of wire to the back of the form. Proceed to glue the hickory nuts, filling the form in a circular pattern around the wreath. For added decoration, include a ribbon tied into a bow at the base of the wreath. This craft project makes a good gift for Thanksgiving or Christmas.