Dollar Store Hack: DIY Lego Sweeper

Easy & useful DIY Lego Sweeper using a $1.00 hand broom set from Dollar Tree!

I made one of these adorable & handy "Lego Sweepers" as a stocking stuffer for my son this past Christmas. I found the perfect size hand broom & pan at Dollar Tree. The 2-piece set for $1.00 When choosing your broom, I suggest something with stiff bristles. They sweep up chunky Lego bricks off carpet much easier than softer bristles -- perfect for Dollar store brooms!

SUPPLY LIST

• (1) hand broom & dust pan set
• Mod Podge (gloss) w/ brush
• Fine sandpaper or steel wool
• Print-at-Home graphics (check Google Images)

DIRECTIONS

First, give your broom set a good wipe to be sure it's free of oils and smudges prior to applying Mod Podge.  Next, browse the internet for fun, printable graphics. I only use high resolution graphics for best print quality. Next, print the graphics and situate them on the broom and dust pan. Trim the graphics to fit the spaces you've laid out and set aside. Very lightly scuff the surface of the plastic where you plan on attaching your graphics.  This will make the Mod Podge adhere better. Wipe off the dust and lightly brush a thin layer of glue, then gently press your graphic into its place, keeping the paper nice and smooth.  Allow the graphics to dry, and finish the project by applying a top coat of Mod Podge over the graphics to seal.

Printable Vintage Apothecary Labels

 

DIY Time Out Vintage-Style Stool

Is it terrible that I made this chair before my son was able to crawl? Not to worry - it wasn't because I couldn't wait to punish him through toddlerhood. I thought of making a designated chair while babysitting my nephew in our new house and couldn't establish a good spot for him to "collect his emotions" or "think about his behavior". He's come a long way now that he's nearly 4 years old, but I think his first combined sentence was, "TWO MINUTES!!" -- which was what we said to warm him he was skating on thin ice. But I digress.  

I created this chair in one evening using vintage style clocks cut from scrapbook paper. Another suggestion would be to find free graphics online to match your personal style or decor (for example, these). I used a Cricut to cut the lettering, however, pre-cut alphabets are available at any craft store. You can also simply print letters and phrases using Word on your home printer. Try printing on colored or smooth cardstock to create a higher-end look. This project is perfect for the beginner crafter with limited experience, and it would make a unique and affordable baby-shower gift!

Supply List

• unfinished wood chair or stool suitable for a toddler (Michaels, Joann Fabrics $15)
• wood stain (Minwax Dark Walnut)
• old rags for staining
• Mod Podge- matte
• paper graphics 
• lettering (pre-cut stickers, printouts, Cricut, etc.)