Children are instinctively creative, and when given paint, paper, scissors, paste, pipe cleaners, string and ordinary household materials they most always produce exciting results. (From the Introduction)

{HISTORY}

In the 1960's this was how you entertained yourself at playtime! Thanks to the midcentury editors at McCall's Needlework and Crafts Magazine, over 200 DIY craft projects for kids were assembled in this colorful 1969 how-to book. McCall's Golden Do-It Book was geared towards the 6-14 age group and contained a plethora of ideas for imaginative works of art that could be achieved using regular household objects or equipment found easily at the art store.

Really, playtime never looked so creative. Old socks turn into circus animals, paper bags into dollies, plates into hats and popsicle sticks into puppies. Sewing, gift wrap, sculpture, seed painting and food styling all turn into magical endeavors that stretch young minds and teach new ways of thinking about common everyday items that often go unnoticed. The book starts out with a reminder to "always check with Mother" when she is throwing something away, for it might be of use to you somehow in the form of a new art project. With that in mind, kids are treated to156 pages of ideas and a zillion hours of fun.

From a historical perspective, this book offers a fascinating look into the childhood mindset of midcentury children - what they played with, how they were entertained, what types of toys were of interest. From a modern perspective, this book offers forgotten fun in actual hands-on creativity, taking them away from video games and computer screens and back to the art-supply filled kitchen table. It is a magical world in here brimming with sweet nostalgia and artistic authenticity. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Ideas for over 200 art projects 

- Contains colorful art illustrations by William Dugan and/or black and white photographs on every page

- Each project is fully explained with detailed instructions, lists of supplies needed and visual guides for reference

- Originally published in 1960, this is the 1969 (ninth printing) edition and is in practically brand-new condition

- 156 pages

In amazing condition, this looks like a brand-new book with shiny cover boards, fully intact, unmarked pages and sharp corners.

{SIZE}

Measures 8.5" inches (width) x 11" inches (length) x .5" inch (thick)

{WHY IT'S INCREDIBLY MARVELOUS}

Because in the magical world that is this book, you'll make a kite that looks like a flying fish. You'll make musical instruments out of glass tumblers and wooden kitchen bowls. You'll whip up an army of animals from cornstarch and salt. You'll make marionettes from socks,  wrapping paper made from nature, dolls from fabric scraps and puppets from paper plates. Who wouldn't be, couldn't be, entertained by all that?!