by contributing writer Kristen
Summer is full of family fun activities! Camping, BBQ’s, picnics, days at the beach, visits to the pool, and impromptu gatherings. A DIY mess kit is a great thing to keep on hand just in case you happen to need supplies for a quick meal.
Mess kits are especially useful for smaller children who might be visiting places that don’t have small utensils and sippy cups. This is a fun craft to make with your kids, and making your own mess kit is less expensive than the ones you would find at a camping store.
I made a DIY mess kit for my toddler son with items I already had. I think it turned out cute, and he even has a cute little bag to carry his items in.
How to Make a DIY Mess Kit
Supplies Needed
- Utensils – You may have a stray set of reusable utensils on hand. If not, they can be purchased cheaply at any dollar store or other retailers.
- Napkin- I used a reusable napkin in my son’s mess kit that was leftover from Thanksgiving a few years ago.
- Plate or a bowl – I used a shallow plastic container for my son’s mess kit. You can also use a pie pan. Then your mess kit will look like the traditional ones found at camping stores.
- Cup – I used a reusable cup that I already had. If you are making this mess kit for a camper, you might want to consider using a thermal cup. This way, they can make hot chocolate when they camp.
- Bag or container for holding the items – It is fun if you make something that can be personalized.
Directions
1. Determine what container you will use for your mess kit. I made a drawstring bag using a leftover quilt square. You can make any kind of bag using any type or fabric you have around, including dish towels or fabric napkins. You can also find inexpensive bags at craft stores, the dollar store, or use a reusable lunch bag.
2. Fill your DIY mess kit with all the items you will need.
3. Keep your mess kit in a place where it will be most useful. Whether it’s the family car, the beach bag, or at grandma’s house, discuss the best place to keep your kids’ mess kits so they will be useful to you.
Enjoy your DIY mess kits! These are easier to keep around than bulky bags of paper plates and plastic cutlery. They are inexpensive and great for the environment!
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