Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

6 Tips for Hosting an Adoption Shower

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Sometimes those who are adopted are forgotten when it comes to showers to celebrate a new addition to a family. Nicole Witt, Executive Director of The Adoption Consultancy, says there are six key tips to keep in mind if you’re planning an adoption shower for a friend or family member who is adding to the family.

  1. Ask What Time Works Best: Some people prefer showers before the adoption, while others would like to wait.  Ask the prospective parents what they want. Some will want the baby shower prior to the birth so they can enjoy what other women get to enjoy, while others will prefer to have the shower after the placement when they no longer have to worry about the adoption falling through.
  2. Specify Age, Gender and Size on the Party Invites: If the child was not adopted as a newborn or if the shower is taking place some time after the placement, make sure guests know the age (& sizes) of the child so they can buy appropriate clothing
  3. Choose an Appropriate Theme: An adoption shower should have a non-pregnancy theme, either something cultural associated with the birth mother’s life or where the baby will be/was born. You can also make it match the nursery design the parents have selected.
  4. Consider a Co-ed Shower: Having a co-ed shower makes it less baby-centric and more of a celebration of life and the parenting journey.
  5. Adult Beverages or Fancy Non-Alcoholic Drink Are a Must: Serve mimosas or another specialty/themed cocktail (with alcohol or not) so that the adoptive mom gets something special from not being pregnant.
  6. Games Are A Must–But Stay Away from Anything Pregnancy Related: Do a baby shower games that don’t relate to pregnancy, such as Nursery Rhyme Jeopardy or a Baby Item Scavenger Hunt.

If your shower is for a child placed through an international adoption, I love the globe themed shower at The Pleated Poppy. I think this beautiful event perfectly showcases the miracle of the adoption process. If you think about it, there’s nothing more amazing than a child traveling halfway around the world to meet his forever family.

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Etsy Feature – Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building

Sometimes clay tools feel more like magic than equipment, and this Moth Pottery Template definitely falls into that category. One moment you’re working with a flat slab, and the next you’re holding a detailed, sculptural moth that looks like it could flutter right off your table.

Why This Template Caught My Eye

This design stands out because it combines structure with artistry. The template gives you the clean, symmetrical base of the moth form, but once you have that shape cut, the real fun begins—adding textures, underglazes, or even metallic accents to bring the wings to life.

It’s ideal for slab-builders who want to go beyond mugs and bowls and dive into more decorative or sculptural projects.

What Makes It Special

  • Unique Subject: How often do you see a pottery moth? It’s an instant conversation starter.

  • Sculptural Yet Simple: The template does the tricky work, leaving you free to decorate.

  • Wall Art or Table Décor: Finished moths look stunning hung on a wall, framed, or displayed on a shelf.

  • Room for Creativity: Paint with bright colors, earthy neutrals, or even metallics for different vibes.

Ideas for Makers

  • Use glossy glazes with shimmering metallic accents for a celestial-style moth.

  • Keep it natural and muted for a woodland-inspired look.

  • Make a series of moths in different colors and sizes for a gallery wall effect.

  • Turn smaller versions into pendants or ornaments.

Why Makers Will Love It

Templates like this are inspiring because they bridge the gap between functional pottery and decorative art. It’s not just about making something useful—it’s about making something memorable. And let’s be honest, it’s the kind of piece guests will immediately comment on when they spot it in your home.

You can grab it here: Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building on Etsy.

This spotlight is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates and tools that push creativity beyond the basics. If you’re ready for a project that feels both bold and whimsical, this moth template will absolutely deliver.

Crochet Pattern – Adorable Fluttering Moth Sprite Doll [Crochet]

DIY Moth Embroidery Pattern And Kit [Needle Work]