3 Meaningful DIY Projects for Lent
Lent is here. While many people focus on fasting or giving something up, it’s also a great time to embrace new practices. You can also dive deeper into reflection. If you’re anything like me, crafting can be an amazing way to slow down. It helps you reconnect. You can even give yourself a little “renewal” through creativity.
So, this Lent, try doing something meaningful. Instead of just giving something up, make something to help you stay focused and grounded through the season. Here are 3 easy DIY projects that’ll keep you inspired and help you reflect during this special time.
1. Lenten Reflection Journal
If you’re looking to go a little deeper this Lent, why not start a reflection journal? It’s an easy and meaningful way to document your thoughts, prayers, and personal reflections throughout the season. Plus, it’s a great way to unwind after a long day.
What you need:
- Blank notebook or journal (you can even make your own using recycled materials!)
- Markers, pens, or stickers (to personalize the cover)
- A bit of your favorite washi tape or fabric (optional, but fun!)
How to make it:
- Start by decorating the cover with something that feels meaningful to you. It could be a favorite Bible verse, a simple symbol like a cross, or something that represents this time of reflection.
- Inside, set up a space for daily reflections. You can start each entry with something like: What am I grateful for today? or What’s something I learned today?
- If you’re feeling extra crafty, you can add little quotes, Bible verses, or creative doodles to inspire you through the weeks.
2. Lenten Prayer Beads
A fun way to keep yourself focused during Lent is through prayer or meditation, and Lenten prayer beads are perfect for this. They’re a simple way to track your reflections, prayers, or moments of silence throughout the season.
What you need:
- String or twine
- 40 beads (to represent the 40 days of Lent)
- Small charms or symbols (optional)
How to make it:
- String the beads on your twine, spacing them out evenly. As you add each bead, think of it as a day of the season, building your path toward reflection and growth.
- You can add small charms at intervals to represent different aspects of your Lenten journey (e.g., a cross for prayer, a heart for gratitude).
- Use the beads to guide you in daily prayer or meditation. Each bead can represent a small moment of reflection or a prayer intention. It’s a simple, yet beautiful, way to stay connected.
3. Lenten Blessings Jar
If you want to keep it simple but meaningful, try a Lenten blessings jar. The idea is to write down little blessings or moments of gratitude and put them in the jar every day. It’s an easy way to focus on what’s going right and what you’re thankful for—especially when you might feel tempted to dwell on what’s hard.
What you need:
- A jar (any size will work)
- Scrap paper or post-its
- A pen or marker
How to make it:
- Take your jar and decorate it with something simple, like a ribbon, a sticker, or a label that says “Lenten Blessings.”
- Every day, write down a blessing or something you’re thankful for and pop it in the jar. They can be big (like a wonderful conversation you had) or small (like a warm cup of coffee in the morning).
- At the end of Lent, read through all the notes to see just how many blessings you’ve experienced during this time.
Lent is a special season of reflection, growth, and renewal, and crafting is a great way to bring a bit of mindfulness into your everyday routine. You might decide to make a journal to document your thoughts. Another option is to create prayer beads to help you stay grounded. Alternatively, you can just keep a blessings jar nearby. These simple projects can be a fun and meaningful part of your journey through Lent.
What are you working on this Lent? Any favorite crafts or activities that help you stay focused? Share in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!