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For many of you the school year is winding down. Check out this post for some year end ideas.
Today’s Library Lady’s tips focus on another maker space ideas. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic.
Tips from Library Lady
Maker Space Spotlight: Nature Collage Bracelets: A Hands-On Maker Space Project with Outdoor STEM Flair
Looking to add an easy, engaging, and nature-inspired project to your school library maker space? Try this Nature Collage Bracelet activity—a simple, sensory experience that encourages students to explore the outdoors, get creative with found materials, and reflect on the natural world. Yes—even your most reluctant participants will enjoy this one!
Supplies
- Wide masking tape or duct tape
- Construction paper
- Glue sticks or spray adhesive
Step 1: Create the Bracelet Base
Wrap a strip of tape (sticky side out) loosely around each student’s wrist. This becomes their “nature bracelet,” where they’ll collect small items. Be sure the tape isn’t too tight—it should slide off easily when the project is complete.
Librarian Tip
If you’re using duct tape, reduce the stickiness slightly by touching it with your fingers. This makes it easier to remove delicate items like petals and leaves later.
Step 2: Take a Nature Walk
If your school has a garden, courtyard, or access to a safe outdoor area, this is the perfect time to explore it. Students can collect small, dry, lightweight objects—think petals, tiny leaves, grass blades, or seeds.
You can structure the activity with a theme (e.g., “collect something green” or “find five different textures”) or leave it open-ended. Encourage creativity while promoting observational skills.
Step 3: Return and Build the Collage
Once back inside, give each student a piece of construction paper in their color of choice. Students carefully peel their nature items off the bracelet and arrange them on the paper.
Use glue sticks or a light spray of adhesive (done by the adult) to secure items in place.
Step 4: Extend the Learning
Let students personalize their collages further. They can:
- Draw or doodle around the items
- Label their finds using a nature guidebook or digital research tools
- Write a reflection or short poem about their walk
This part integrates beautifully with language arts, science, and visual art standards, making it ideal for cross-curricular connections.
Why It Works for Maker Spaces
This project blends STEM, art, and environmental awareness in one accessible activity. It promotes:
- Sensory exploration
- Fine motor skills
- Observational learning
- Creative expression
Plus, it’s easy to set up, inexpensive, and adaptable for all grade levels. Whether you’re running a full-time maker space or hosting occasional pop-up stations, this activity is a meaningful addition to your programming.
Check out my book list of picture books and non fiction books about nature.
Want more Maker Space ideas? Check out these posts.
| Need to do some fundraising for your library? Here are some posts on my blog which describe my fundraising camps. |
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Products You May Find Useful
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Authors and librarians, would you like to have a post on this blog?
I’d like to add a couple of features to my blog in the coming months and I’d like your help. I am looking for school librarians interested in being interviewed on the blog. I am also looking for librarians and children’s or young adult authors to do guest posts on the blog. Click on the links below to fill out a survey.
Is there a way I can help you? Drop a note in the comments or shoot me an email, I’d love to help.
See you next week.
Jane (Library Lady)
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