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Making History

Making History

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Have a Blast with 15 Crafts

Author Wendy Freshman, Author Kristin Jansson

Minnesota Historical Society Press (November 1, 2014)


Perfect for a children’s party or a rainy weekend at the cabin, this collection of history-minded crafts can be adapted in countless ways for objects to wear, display, and use.

Description

The past comes alive through craft projects celebrating Minnesota’s history and people. Imagine soldiers on the Civil War battlefield as you assemble a “housewife” sewing kit like those made by wives and mothers. Re-create the drama of a midwestern tornado when you build an automaton that actually spins, and celebrate the invention of water-skiing with a boat and skier that really glide.

Step-by-step instructions carefully guide you to make your own marionette, but it’s up to you to stage the puppet show. The playful miniature scene of a Day of the Dead nicho offers a way to honor a loved one. A woodland hike will provide the twigs and leaves to make a troll. A walking stick in the tradition of folk artist Maurice Carlton inspires you to create art out of what you can find.

These projects and more generate hours of fun, not to mention useful pieces you’ll want to share with your family and friends.

Author information

Wendy Freshman is a program specialist for family audiences at the Minnesota History Center.

Kristin Jansson is a prop and prototype designer and a former costumer with the Children’s Theatre Company.

Reviews and news

“This original craft book offers 15 projects reflecting the artistry and cultures represented in the collections of the Minnesota Historical Society. In a single volume, kids find directions for making a North Woods troll, a Hmong rooster-comb hat, a Paul Bunyan action toy, or an Ojibwa-inspired basket. . . . This handsome, large format paperback provides inspiration and practical help for craft enthusiasts.” Booklist

Bookology Review
Making History with Fox9’s M.A. Rosko

How to make a north woods troll

Downloadable templates

Cobweb Valentine

Dia De Los Muertos Nicho

"Gone Fishing" Ice House

Hmong Rooster Comb Hat

Metal Foil Repouse Pendant

Minnesota Trapper Hat

North Woods Troll

Paul Bunyan Action Toy

Playful Marionette

"Ride the Waves" Boat and Skier

Twister Tornado


  • 216 pages
  • 180 color photographs, glossary, index
  • 8.5 x 11 inches
  • ISBN: 9780873519199

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