Step 3: Once all of your nails are in place, spray paint the entire thing, making sure to also spray paint the nails.
Step 4: When dry, pull out your thread and start wrapping! I did the body of the cross first. To start, tie the end of the thread to a nail. Then, trim the end so it wouldn’t be noticed. There is no specific process for doing this. Just make sure that each nail is wrapped around, the outline of the cross is clear and the space within the cross is relatively filled. When done, tie the end of the thread to a nail and trim short.
Step 5: Now it’s time to wrap the heart. I wrapped this much more completely. I really wanted the red of the heart to pop–a reminder of how Christ loves us, something especially clear during Lent. As you can see I wrapped the nails of the heart with both colors of thread, red on the inside and white on the outside. When done, tie off.
And there you have it.
As an added element, it is powerful to reflect on the crucifixion of our Lord while completing this project, especially while pounding the nails.
May you have a blessed Lent,
Nancy
Wendy H. says
Nancy, I love your honesty and can relate with you about Lent! This is a fabulously simple, yet powerful art idea that I am going to do with my 3rd and 4th grade class. It will help them see art in a different way, while strengthening fine motor skills and their faith!!
Thank you for sharing your creativity!
C.S. Weaver says
Your creativity is only matched by your obvious faith. Great project. I love your finger puppet idea too.
C.S. Weaver recently posted…The Super Pillow
Nancy Bandzuch says
that is such a wonderful thing to hear. thank you!
Teresa says
This is beautiful! I admire your creativity and passion for crafts. Keep it up! You’re inspiring people.
Teresa recently posted…Do you want to win over breastfeeding challenges?
Nancy Bandzuch says
You are so wonderful to say that! Thanks for stopping by!
terri lackey says
Can I use a photo on this blog on my Lutheran women’s website? (www.womenoftheelca.org)
terri lackey recently posted…Do not let your hearts be troubled
Melissa Tedesco says
A visual reminder is such a neat idea! It makes me think I should “decorate” for Lent. I’ll have to try out your project.
Peggy O'Flaherty says
Nancy, love this idea. This is something I would try with my 5 kids. Can you tell me when you explain it to your children or via your own meditation, what does the string symbolize? Thanks Peggy
http://www.creatingspaceinyourlife.com
Peggy O’Flaherty recently posted…40 Day Lenten Calendar – Small Act Kindness
Amy @ This Cross I Embrace says
Wow, you are way craftier than I am! I love this idea, and think it’s wise to have a visual reminder. Unlike the “cross in my pocket” which I really only think about when I’m putting a wrapper in my pocket or something 🙂 – this is much more tangible.
Beautiful job!
Chrystal says
Stopping in and spreading the love from the link up! I will have to save this post so that I’ll have it next year when my (then) 13yo will be at loose ends for a project to inspire him for lent. It looks like it’s right up his alley! Of course I may just have to make one of these myself next year as well LOL. Great idea!!
Chrystal recently posted…A Surprise Menu Plan
Joan says
Nancy,
I am so thrilled with this project. I love it and am going to try it. I love DIY and this will fit perfectly in my log home
Thanks
Sherri says
I love this. What a beautiful reminder!! I just might have to get hubbies help when he comes home to make one as well.
Sherri recently posted…Learning to find Thankfulness
Nancy Bandzuch says
I hope yours turns out great! thanks for stopping by…and have a blessed Lent.
Ann Gerding says
I was explaining to my boys that they belong to Team Family. When I asked them who our coach was I expected the answer: Mom and Dad. I got a much better one: JESUS! I’m going to try out this project over the weekend. I’ll let you know how it goes. I have a simple blog at https://lovenloot.blogspot.com
Nancy Bandzuch says
Aren’t kids wonderful? Last year I was talking to my 6 year old nephew, asking him if he was excited for Easter. He was, but when I mentioned the Easter bunny and candy he gave me a look like I was really dumb. What are you excited about then, I asked. He smiled, “Jesus raising from the dead!”. Oh yeah. That’s what’s exciting about Easter! Thank goodness for kids!
Trinity says
I love this. I wanted to try this out with a very large heart.
meandmr.com says
Newest follower here! I found you through the blog hop. You have a super cute blog! I look forward to reading more.
You can find me at meandmr.com
-Melanie @meandmr.com
Noting Grace says
Absolutely Lovely! This would be a neat project to do with my boys, too. I love this – thanks for sharing.
Jen @ Noting Grace
Kara @ Petals to Picots says
This is such a great idea … it’s got such a cool look to it!
Laurie@SimplyCreatingHome says
Wonderful idea! I haven’t worked nail and string art in a very long time, but I have fond memories of it as a craft. I love how meaningful your project is and what it represents. What a perfect reminder!
Nancy Bandzuch says
Thanks! It’s nice when a craft is more than just a craft.
Amy says
Such a neat idea!! What a great tie-in with the nails too…nice one.
Accidentally Wonderful says
That is awesome! Great reminder of the season.
MishMreow M says
This is really pretty 🙂 I may look into trying this out sometime 🙂