Wizarding Wands...

For the final Harry Potter installment (movie, that is) I wanted to be well equipped when dealing with the midnight release crowds that evening. After some googling, I discovered a cheap (and VERY convincing) alternative to buying an expensive wand online or widdling my own wand out of a wooden dowel (which I considered... until I recalled the fact that I don't have woodworking tools...dangit). On DadCanDo there is a wonderful tutorial on making wands out of plain paper, hot glue for stability and the designs, Elmer's glue (in my case for the edges), and craft paint for the final touches/"wand" coloring. I stuffed the inside with printer paper and tissue paper for stability, since my friends are a pretty rough bunch.

Alohomora!

Two 20-somethings, way too amused by paper wands

These are great for kids birthdays, surprise inexpensive "gifts" (small holidays, good behavior, photography bribes), and a great addition to any Harry Potter extravaganza!!