Valentines Easy as Pie (er, Lollipops)!

It’s that time of year again—when parents sift through the aisles of pre-made valentines trying to decide between cards featuring SpongeBob or Hannah Montana for the kids’ class card exchange. Sound familiar? Kids love getting and giving valentines, but they also love CREATING. This year, involve your kids in creating their own special valentines for friends and classmates. Here’s a quick, simple, kid-friendly idea that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser on the big day.

First, start with the lollipops. I like the heart-shaped ones that come in a long attached strand—you can easily separate the lollipops along the plastic perforated edge (but any favorite will do as long as they’re flat!) Then, choose your cardstocks in traditional colors like Cranberry, Hollyhock, Blush, or jazz up the look with Tulip, White Daisy, Blush And Juniper. For one set I used the “That’s Amore” paper packet and a few favorite stamp sets. And for the other I used Tulip and Blush cardstock, and “Fancy Cuts Botanicals.” Here are the easy instructions:

1. Each “lollipop caddy” measures 2 ½” x 2 ½” finished.


2. For each caddy cut a cardstock piece 2 ½” x 5 ¼.”


3. Score the middle of each cardstock two times. Measure 2 ½” from each end. This creates ¼” gusset at the top of your caddy for the thickness of your lollipop.


4. Then, decorate the two sides of the caddy any way you wish. Remember to add “to” and “from” on the back.


5. Punch two holes, one on either side of the lollipop and string with ribbon.


6. Slide the lollipop inside the caddy, and then secure the caddy closed by tying the ribbon in a bow or knot—and presto! You have an adorable, unique, fast valentine that says, “You’re Sweet” in more ways than one.

Here’s wishing you fun and creativity as you prepare for this favorite holiday with your loved ones!