An Idea for Your Family This Lent

Inspired by the gorgeous circular Lenten wreath I saw at A Holy Experience, I decided to try my hand at making my own version at home. I love having a visual symbol for the family to gather around for our evening devotions as we did during Advent. I wanted to incorporate some Lenten symbols into the craft as well. I made sure to work in the color purple (the liturgical color of the season) and also burlap--representing the sack cloths people wore while fasting during biblical times.

I thought I'd share how I made it, in case you might want to make your own.


You Will Need:

*3-4 packages of black Fimo modeling clay (or similar sculpting clay)
*Cardboard (approx. 2' x 3' square)
*40 small polished river stones
* 1/2 yard of burlap (I like to have extra on hand in case of mistakes!)
*glue gun w/glue sticks
*stick lighter
*purple votive candle
*scissors

I started by cutting cardboard into a spiral pattern. (Size is up completely up to you. Mine measures approx 24 in. diameter)

The boys helped me condition the Fimo. (I love the look of fierce determination on Adam's face!)

(A much gentler approach from Luke!)

Once the Fimo was soft enough to work with, I sculpted 40 little bowls (think pinch pots from grade school!). I like the free-form irregular look, so I made each of mine a slightly different size and shape.

I baked them according to the directions on the package.

Once they were baked and cooled I arranged them on my spiral to make sure everything would fit nicely.

Using the cardboard as a guide I cut the burlap into a spiral pattern leaving a tiny bit of overhang on all sides to take into account the fabric that will be lost by burning.

I selected 40 stones that would fit nicely into the cups.

Using my glue gun I then glued the burlap securely to the cardboard working in 6 inch sections from the outside toward the center.

Once the spiral was glued and dry I Very carefully burned the edges of the burlap working by 2 inch sections and blowing out each section before moving onto the next.

Once the edges were singed I glued the 40 clay pots to the burlap with a glue gun.

Gathering sticks from the yard, I fashioned a cross out of them. I used purple embroidery thread (love using purple however I can!) to secure it. I then molded black no-bake clay around the base of the cross and secured it into the center (40th pot) of the spiral.

Once the project was completed I placed everything into a black tray for use. I chose a purple candle to further highlight the color for the season and placed the stones we'll be using into a glass container wrapped with twine.

Our family will be using the book A Family Journey With Jesus Through Lent for our evening devotions.

If you decide to give it a try I hope it turns out well for you! If you have any questions please feel free to leave a comment and I'll be happy to answer!


I wish you all a wonderful 40 day walk with Jesus this Lent.


Linked at: Works for Me Wednesday