Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

You’ll Love This Fun Twist on the Standard Pool Party – Shark Week

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Shark Party

If you’re planning a pool party, why not take things one step further and turn it into a shark party? This colorful party is easy to put together and incorporates yummy treats like gummy worms, goldfish crackers, and an ocean blue punch! This would be perfect as a boy’s summer birthday party or as a fun end of summer celebration for your extended family.

Head over to The Love Nerds for a full party description and photo gallery.

Are you hosting an under the sea themed party? check out these Under the Sea party decorations. Perfect for Mermaid, Spongebob and beach-themed parties too.

If you are planning on hosting a fun Shark week (July) activity then make sure you check out these other shark crafts we wrote about as well as some fun shark-themed food you can eat. (No sharks were harmed in the making of our yummy shark treats)

Love Sharks? How about playing these fun Shark themed Board Games or these resource books for learning about sharks.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.