Lighten Up: Craft Lightsticks for brain health

Studies in Neuroaesthetics, the science of how our brains process beauty, show that crafting offers amazing benefits:

• Stress Reduction: Engaging in art projects for just 45 minutes can significantly lower stress hormones like cortisol (source: Your Brain on Art by Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen).

• Mood Booster: Completing a project like these lightstick accessories gives you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, which can combat feelings of anxiety and depression (source: Crafting for Health | What are the health benefits of crafting? - Uaex.uada.edu).

• Creative Spark: Crafting lets you tap into your imagination and develop fresh ideas (source: The Mental Health Benefits of Creativity - Diversus Health).

• Fan Community: Crafting can be a social activity! Share your creations online, swap ideas with friends, or even host a crafting party! You will also make a ton of connections when you carry your light stick to a show and everyone wants to see what you made.  

Crafting custom lightstick accessories is the perfect way to lighten your mood and show off your fandom spirit! With all those benefits, let’s let the light in:

Lightstick Accessory Crafting Guide:

Materials:

• Felt (in your favorite group's colors or a design that matches their concept)

• Scissors (sharp ones for clean cuts)

• Fabric glue or a hot glue gun (be careful if using hot glue)

• Embroidery floss or string (optional, for hanging or attaching details)

• Decorations (sequins, beads, buttons, ribbons, etc.) – optional

• Ruler (for measuring and straight cuts)

• Pencil or fabric marker (for marking felt)

• Inspiration! (Look at your favorite group's logos, music videos, or fan art for ideas)

Step-by-Step:

1. Plan Your Design: Sketch your idea on paper or browse online for inspiration.

2. Cut the Felt: Use your ruler and pencil to mark the felt according to your design. Cut out the shapes carefully.

3. Decorate! This is where you get creative! Use fabric glue to attach sequins, beads, buttons, or ribbons. You can also embroider lettering or logos using embroidery floss.

4. Assemble Your Accessory: If you're making a crown or other topper, glue the felt pieces together. If you're making a strap or wristband, cut two long strips of felt and glue the ends together to form a loop. You can also add string or ribbon for hanging or attaching the accessory to your lightstick.

5. Let it Dry: Allow the glue to dry completely before attaching the accessory to your lightstick.

Pro-Tips:

• Use stencils or printouts to create more intricate designs.

• Experiment with different felt thicknesses for a layered look.

• For a more polished look, consider using pinking shears to cut the felt edges.

• Seal the felt edges with fabric glue to prevent fraying.

• Most importantly, have fun and express your unique style!

Show it Off!

Share your finished lightstick accessories online with other fans. Consider these an amazing way to create a personalized gift for your friend.  And of course use them to light up the next concert! Not only will your lightstick stand out, but you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you created something awesome yourself.

“So watch me bring the fire and set the night aLIGHT” -Dynamite, BTS