Today’s post is a kid approved craft that is perfect for a welcome home sign when a military member comes back from a deployment.

This handmade sign idea can be personalized by your child however they want and brought to the airport for that special homecoming moment. From the wording on the sign, to the colors you choose – whatever your kid approves of, go with it!

So on that note, I’m sure you know by now, that my husband recently came home from his deployment. Homecomings are a pretty big deal to the military members and their family. Usually there are lots of tears and claps of joy. It’s like a mini party in some airports.

Although we had some hiccups on the day Joe was suppose to land in Cheyenne – somehow, someway – things worked out and the photographer I hired was able to capture it all. Just when I thought we wouldn’t – it worked out. Perfectly.

And I’m so glad I took the extra effort to make this “handmade welcome home sign” with my son to make that particular day even more special.

If you would like to a similar sign like ours, with your child, please check out the full tutorial below! It’s great for toddlers and younger children!

Happy crafting, my dear friends! #gluedtomycrafts

Welcome Home Sign – Deployment Craft Supplies:

* Large Blank Canvas {I used a flat canvas so it was light/easy for Lil Man to hold}
* Various Craft Paints/Glitter
* Scrapbook Stickers
* Paper Plate/Brushes/Baby Wipes

Directions:

First lay out your stickers on the canvas. Make sure they stick nicely.

You can spell out phases like “Welcome Home” “We missed you” or what we did – “Hand over my daddy.” {Just make sure it’s appropriate ;)

Next – have your child go to town and paint the canvas however they want.

You will want to make sure they cover the scrapbook stickers that you put down – completely – so the phrase will come out right.

When I squirted the paint on the paper plate, I stirred in some glitter. Then when the paint dried, the glitter dried right with it on the sign – leaving a cool texture/look.

Set aside to let the canvas dry completely.

Once your sign is completely dry – carefully peel off the scrapbook stickers to reveal perfect shaped letters underneath. If they didn’t turn out right – you can do touch-up with a small paint brush.

And you are done! What do you think?

You can add more personalization to your sign if you like. Things like stickers, pictures, ribbon, more paint etc. Make it truly one of a kind. And don’t forget to add dates/ages on the back so it’s a nice keepsake. Even a handprint on the back would be great.

Once you are ready to take it to the airport, hold it up high and wait for the smile on the receiver’s end! I know our guy approved of it!