What better way to entertain the children than getting creative in a good craft project? This Easter holidays we were sent a wonderfully large box of goodies from Clas Ohlson, including their iconic wooden Dala Horse, for us to decorate to our hearts content! Clas Ohlson is Swedens favourite home and hardware brand and we have a handful of shops here in the Uk. This year is the brand’s 100th birthday, so Harry and his cousins have spent a rainy day using their artistic skills and imagination to create some Dala horses of their own.
The tale of the Swedish Dala horse is one that the children loved to hear about. It was in the small log cabins deep in the forests of the Swedish Dalarna region, that the Dala horse was born. Using simple tools, nestled around the log fire, woodcarvers made these wooden horse toys for their children. The most famous and iconic Dala horse pattern, with its red, white, green, yellow and blue design is believed to be 150years old!
Our giant box of art supplies included; A family of 3 wooden Dala horses, Sharpie pens, a hot glue gun, a pack of beads, a label maker (my ALL TIME FAVOURITE!), acrylic paints, glitter glue, glitter pens, magnets, keyrings and tape. All products that you can purchase in one of the Clas Ohlson stores and online.
Without any of my input, we set everything up on the table and Harry and his cousins went to town with the materials! When it comes to arts and crafts, I love nothing more than letting the children have as much creative freedom as possible. School holidays and weekends are perfect for this because you usually have no time restraints. I never worry about mess because there really is no point!
If you’re looking for an activity to do these school holidays, then head to either the Kingston or Ealing stores in London this Thursday 12th April between 11am-2pm where you can get involved in a free Dala horse decorating workshop. I’m dying to decorate one for myself so I may see you there!
Visit their online store at www.clasohlson.co.uk and find them on Instagram @clasohlsonuk #clasohlson100
by Laura xx
