Ever since the patriots first saluted America's independence with resounding bells and cannon fire, the Fourth of July has been a day for making joyful noise. This year, parade revelers can join in the fun with homemade Liberty Bell shakers.

To make one, fill a cardboard tissue tube with about a dozen small bells (sold at craft or party stores). Then seal the tube by taping
1 1/2-inch-wide cardboard circles to the ends.

Next, cut a 6- x 20-inch rectangle from a clear report folder or clear acetate (sold at art supply stores) and fringe the 6-inch edges by making a series of 8-inch-long cuts (a parent's job). Attach sticker stars to the fringe.

Wrap the rectangle around the tube so that the fringe extends from the ends and secure it with the tape. Then your child can decorate the shaker with colored tape stripes and more sticker stars.

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