He's A Cutie!

This Valentine season set your creative spirit free. Create this little love bug using a recycled light bulb and a few art materials. Follow these simple steps and you will have a unique and delightful Valentine for your sweetheart!!

Step 1: Materials Needed

To get started, you will need to gather these suggested materials:

A Used Light Bulb

14 Gauge Aluminum Wire or any pliable wire

Assorted Tissue Paper

Permanent Markers

Pipe Cleaners

Googly Eyes

Small Puff Balls

Acrylic Gel Medium

Medium Craft Paint Brush

Glue Gun

Glue Sticks

Scissors

Step 2: Creating the Wings

Cut a piece of wire 24 inches in length. Gently fold the wire in half. Bend the left end into the center and twist to form a bow. Repeat for the right side. Mold your wings in the desired shape of your choice. Cut four tissue paper squares/rectangles that are slightly larger than your wings. Place two of the tissue squares under the wings. Using your paint brush, apply a thin coat of gel medium around and over the wire. Carefully use the paint brush to fold in the edges and smooth out the wrinkles. When both sides are complete, flip over and repeat the process. Cut out tissue paper hearts and applique them to the wings using the gel medium. Place your finished wings over a cup and let them dry( 30-60 minutes).

Step 3: Designing the Bulb

This is the fun part!!

As your wings are drying, use permanent markers to decorate your bulb. Let your creative juices flow.
If you are an avid crafter, you can embellish your bug with puff paints, jewels, paint markers, and anything else that comes to mind. Explore your materials and have fun!!

Step 4: Adding the Legs

Cut three wires 15-20 inches in length. Bend each wire to create a U shape. Using the light bulb's threads, place one U shape wire around the back thread closest to the bulb and twist 5-6 times. Repeat the process allowing the wires to move to the next thread. Shape your legs and curl in those toes. Make sure your bug has a good stance.

Step 5: Building the Bug

Now we are ready to assemble the bug.
Make sure your glue gun is hot and remember safety!

Cut a small piece of pipe cleaner and create a U shape antenna. Place a generous glue dollop on back thread of the bulb. Place the center of the wings into the glue. Hold using the edges of the wing and wait until glue has hardened. Add more glue to the front threads and add the antenna and puff balls with googly eyes.