TLE8 FCSQ3W7D2: Classifying and Evaluating Handicraft Supplies and Materials

Yesterday you explored common supplies and materials used for making handicrafts. Today you will go deeper by grouping materials according to their source, quality, and purpose, then comparing which options are most practical for a specific project. You will think about strength, texture, safety, cost, and environmental impact when choosing what to use. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to prepare a simple materials list for a handicraft product and explain why your chosen supplies and materials are wise, safe, and cost-effective.

• Subject: TLE — Beauty Care and Wellness Services (Handicraft)
• Grade: 8
• Day: 2 of 4

🎯 Learning Goals

By the end of the lesson, you will be able to:

1. Classify common handicraft materials by their source and basic characteristics such as strength and texture.
2. Compare at least two sets of materials for a specific handicraft product and justify which option is more appropriate.
3. Prepare a simple, realistic materials list and cost estimate for a chosen handicraft project, considering quality, safety, and budget.

🧩 Key Ideas & Terms

• Quality – The overall condition and performance of a supply or material, including strength, appearance, and reliability.
• Durability – The ability of a material to resist wear, pressure, or damage over time.
• Cost-effective – Giving good results or quality at a reasonable or lower cost.
• Availability – How easy it is to obtain a supply or material in the local community or market.
• Sustainability – Using resources in ways that protect the environment and support future generations.
• Alternative materials – Different materials that can replace the original choice while still meeting the project’s purpose.
• Bill of materials (BOM) – A simple list showing the type and quantity of materials needed for a project.

🔄 Quick Recall / Prior Knowledge

Review what you learned in Day 1 about supplies, materials, and their sources.

1. Define supplies and materials in your own words.
   Show Answer

   Supplies are tools and helpers used during the crafting process, like scissors or glue. Materials are the substances that stay in the final product, like fabric, beads, or paper.
2. Classify each item as a supply or material: glue, cardboard, needle, yarn.
   Show Answer

   Glue – supply; Cardboard – material; Needle – supply; Yarn – material.
3. Give one example each of a plant-based, animal-based, inorganic, and man-made material.
   Show Answer

   Plant-based: bamboo; Animal-based: wool; Inorganic: glass beads; Man-made: plastic ribbon.
4. Why is it important to think about the purpose of a craft before choosing materials?
   Show Answer

   Because the material must match how the item will be used so it is strong, safe, and suitable for washing, heat, or outdoor use.

📖 Explore the Lesson

How to use this section: Work through six checkpoints. Each one has a mini-goal, guided discussion, real-life tie-in, mini-summary, and three guiding questions with answers hidden in details.

Checkpoint 1 – Looking Closely at Craft Materials

Mini-goal: Describe basic characteristics of common handicraft materials using your senses and simple observations.

Guided discussion: When you first pick up a craft material, your senses give you important clues. You notice if it feels rough or smooth, thick or thin, stiff or flexible. You see its color, pattern, and shine. You might even hear the sound it makes when bent or tapped. These observations help you judge whether the material is suitable for a particular product. For example, thin tissue paper tears easily and is better for decorations, while thick board paper is better for tags or boxes.

Some characteristics are visible, like color and pattern, while others are more functional, like strength and stretch. Fabric for an eco-bag needs enough strength to carry books without tearing. Yarn for a bracelet should feel comfortable on the skin and not itch. Wooden pieces for a frame must be thick enough to hold together when nails or glue are applied. By asking simple questions—Is it strong enough? Does it feel comfortable? Will it stay in shape?—you begin to evaluate materials like a crafter and not just as a buyer.

Real-life tie-in: When you shop for school supplies, you already compare notebooks by thickness, smoothness of paper, and durability of the cover. You are doing a quick quality check without calling it that. In handicrafts, you apply the same idea but with more focus and purpose.

Mini-summary: Observing how materials look, feel, and behave helps you decide if they match a project’s needs. Simple questions about strength, comfort, and shape support wise material choices.

1. Name three characteristics you can check when you first touch a craft material.
   Show Answer

   Possible answers: thickness, texture (smooth or rough), strength, flexibility, stretch, weight, and shine or dullness.
2. Why might thin paper be a poor choice for a durable bookmark?
   Show Answer

   Because it tears and bends easily, especially when placed inside a bag or used many times.
3. Think of a material you like using. Which characteristic makes it your favorite?
   Show Answer

   Answers may vary: soft texture, bright color, easy to cut, flexible, or strong enough for everyday use.

Checkpoint 2 – Comparing Materials for One Product

Mini-goal: Practice comparing at least two materials for the same handicraft product.

Guided discussion: Imagine you want to make a reusable eco-bag. You have three possible materials: thin nylon, denim from old jeans, and canvas. All three can technically become a bag, but they will not perform in exactly the same way. Thin nylon is light and folds easily, but it may tear if overloaded. Denim is strong and fashionable but can be heavier and harder to sew. Canvas is sturdy and keeps its shape, but it may cost more than the others.

To compare materials fairly, list their advantages and limitations. Consider strength, weight, comfort, appearance, cost, and ease of sewing or joining. Also think about who will use the bag and how. A school bag for books needs strong handles and durable fabric; a light grocery bag may not need such heavy material. When you can explain why one material is better than another for a specific product, you are already thinking like a planner and not only like a maker.

Real-life tie-in: Clothing brands carefully choose fabric types for uniforms, sportswear, or formal wear. A basketball jersey uses light, breathable fabric while a blazer uses firm, structured material. Their choices affect comfort, durability, and customer satisfaction—just like your choices in small handicraft projects.

Mini-summary: Comparing materials for a single product involves checking how each one performs in strength, comfort, cost, and appearance. The “best” choice depends on who will use the item and for what purpose.

1. For a strong eco-bag, which material would you choose among thin nylon, denim, and canvas? Explain briefly.
   Show Answer

   Answers may vary, but many will choose denim or canvas because they are thicker and stronger, making them better for carrying weight.
2. Why is it not enough to choose a material just because it looks nice?
   Show Answer

   Because the material must also support the product’s purpose—if it is weak, uncomfortable, or unsafe, the product may fail even if it looks attractive.
3. Think of a bracelet made from rubber bands vs. one made from thin thread. How might their performance differ?
   Show Answer

   Rubber bands stretch and are easy to wear but may break or lose shape; thin thread may be less stretchy but can be braided for strength and comfort.

Checkpoint 3 – Balancing Quality and Cost

Mini-goal: Explain how to choose materials that give good quality without going beyond your budget.

Guided discussion: In school projects, you often have limited money. At the same time, you want your handicraft to look presentable and last long enough to be used. This means you must balance quality and cost. Choosing the most expensive materials is not always necessary; sometimes mid-priced materials give similar results. For example, you might not need imported beads if locally made beads can provide the same color and shine.

A simple way to start is to estimate how many pieces of a material you need, then multiply by the price per piece. If you need ten meters of ribbon at ten pesos per meter, your ribbon cost alone is one hundred pesos. You can then decide whether that is acceptable for a small project or whether you should reduce the length or choose a cheaper alternative. Keeping a small table of items, quantities, and costs helps you see the total amount clearly.

Real-life tie-in: Micro-entrepreneurs who sell handmade accessories always consider cost. If they spend too much on materials, their selling price will be high and fewer customers may buy. If they choose only the cheapest materials, the product might look weak or unattractive. Their success depends on wise, cost-effective choices.

Mini-summary: Balancing quality and cost means choosing materials that are good enough for the product’s purpose while staying within budget. Estimating quantities and prices helps you make realistic decisions.

1. Why might using only the cheapest materials be a bad idea?
   Show Answer

   Because very cheap materials may break easily, fade quickly, or look unattractive, leading to poor-quality products.
2. If one meter of cloth costs ₱80 and you need 2.5 meters, about how much will you spend on cloth?
   Show Answer

   About ₱200 (₱80 × 2.5 = ₱200).
3. How can a simple materials-and-costs table help you before you start a project?
   Show Answer

   It shows the total cost in advance, helps you decide if you need cheaper options, and prevents surprises when buying materials.

Checkpoint 4 – Thinking of the Environment and Culture

Mini-goal: Consider environmental and cultural factors when choosing handicraft materials.

Guided discussion: Handicrafts do not exist only in classrooms or shops; they also reflect how people treat the environment and value their culture. Using local plant-based materials like bamboo, abaca, and pandan leaves can reduce transport costs and support nearby farmers. Choosing recycled materials for some projects can reduce waste and show creativity. On the other hand, some materials may be harmful if overused, such as non-biodegradable plastics that add to pollution.

Cultural factors also matter. Traditional crafts from different regions use materials that are meaningful to their history and lifestyle. For example, some communities weave using native grasses and dye them with natural colors. When you choose materials that respect local traditions, you help keep cultural stories alive. At the same time, you must obey laws that protect endangered plants and animals and avoid taking materials from protected areas.

Real-life tie-in: Many tourists buy handicrafts because they represent local culture and use natural materials. Products labeled as “eco-friendly” or “locally made” often attract buyers who are willing to support responsible producers.

Mini-summary: Environmentally friendly and culturally respectful material choices support nature, local communities, and traditional skills, while still allowing creativity.

1. Give one example of how recycled materials can reduce waste in handicrafts.
   Show Answer

   Using old magazines for paper beads, reusing fabric scraps for patchwork, or turning bottles into decorative containers reduces the amount of trash thrown away.
2. Why might buyers appreciate handicrafts made from local materials?
   Show Answer

   Because such products feel more authentic, support local workers, and often have a unique look connected to a place.
3. What responsibility do crafters have when gathering natural materials from the environment?
   Show Answer

   They should collect only what is allowed, avoid damaging plants or habitats, and follow laws that protect endangered species.

Checkpoint 5 – Planning a Simple Bill of Materials

Mini-goal: Prepare a basic list of needed materials and supplies for a chosen project.

Guided discussion: A bill of materials (BOM) is like a shopping list plus a plan. It lists each type of material, its quantity, and sometimes its estimated cost. For example, if you plan to make five keychains, your BOM might include: 5 metal rings, 2 meters of cord, 50 beads, and 1 tube of strong glue. Preparing this list before you buy anything saves time and money because you avoid extra trips and reduce the risk of buying too much or too little.

You can also include supplies in your BOM, especially if you need to purchase them for the first time. For instance, if you do not own a glue gun yet, you may list “1 glue gun” and “4 glue sticks” with their approximate prices. Once bought, some supplies can be used in many future projects, so you do not count their full cost in only one item.

Real-life tie-in: Small workshops and factories use detailed BOMs for hundreds of items. Even if your project is small, learning to create a clear materials list prepares you for more advanced planning in business or technical work.

Mini-summary: A bill of materials organizes what you need, in what quantity, and sometimes at what cost. It supports smooth purchasing, production, and budgeting.

1. Why is it helpful to prepare a BOM before buying materials?
   Show Answer

   Because it prevents missing items, reduces wasteful spending, and makes shopping faster and more organized.
2. For three handmade greeting cards, name two materials and two supplies you might include in a simple BOM.
   Show Answer

   Materials: colored cardstock, stickers or cut-out shapes. Supplies: scissors, glue or glue stick.
3. Why might you separate reusable supplies from one-time-use materials in your planning?
   Show Answer

   So you know which items will last for many projects and which must be purchased again, helping you plan long-term costs.

Checkpoint 6 – Storing and Caring for Supplies and Materials

Mini-goal: Identify simple ways to store and protect supplies and materials so they stay usable.

Guided discussion: Once you have carefully chosen supplies and materials, you must also take care of them. Poor storage can ruin good items. Paper left in damp areas may wrinkle or mold; fabric exposed to strong sunlight may fade; beads scattered loosely may get lost. Good storage separates items by type, keeps them dry and clean, and protects them from direct heat or moisture.

Crafters often use containers such as boxes, jars, or resealable bags for small items like buttons and beads. They roll or fold textiles neatly and store them in clean shelves. Adhesives and paints are kept in closed, labeled containers, away from extreme heat. Scissors, needles, and cutters are stored with safety covers where children cannot reach them. Labels help you find what you need quickly, saving time during projects.

Real-life tie-in: When you visit a well-organized store, you notice that similar items are grouped and labeled. This makes shopping easy. Keeping your supplies and materials organized makes your crafting easier too and prevents waste because fewer items are damaged or forgotten.

Mini-summary: Proper storage protects supplies and materials from damage, saves money, and makes crafting smoother and safer.

1. Give one example of a material that can be damaged by moisture and explain how to protect it.
   Show Answer

   Paper can wrinkle or grow mold when wet. Keep it in a dry, closed folder or box away from spills.
2. How can labels on containers help during handicraft activities?
   Show Answer

   Labels help you quickly locate items, return them to the right place, and see when supplies are running low.
3. Why should sharp supplies be stored carefully, especially around children?
   Show Answer

   To prevent accidental cuts or injuries. Safe storage keeps sharp tools out of reach and reduces the risk of accidents.

💡 Example in Action

1. Example 1 – Choosing Material for a Coin Purse
   You want to sew a small coin purse. You can choose between thin cotton, denim scraps, and plastic packaging. Which material will you select and why?
   Show Answer

   Many learners may choose denim because it is stronger and more durable than thin cotton or plastic packaging, making it better for holding coins.
2. Example 2 – Budgeting for Friendship Bracelets
   Your group plans to make ten friendship bracelets using yarn and beads. A ball of yarn costs ₱45 and can make about five bracelets. A pack of beads for ten bracelets costs ₱60. How many balls of yarn do you need and what is the estimated total cost for yarn and beads?
   Show Answer

   You need two balls of yarn (for ten bracelets). Yarn cost: 2 × ₱45 = ₱90. Beads cost: ₱60. Total estimated cost: ₱150.
3. Example 3 – Eco-Friendly Gift Tags
   Your teacher wants eco-friendly gift tags for a school event. Which materials and supplies might you choose?
   Show Answer

   Materials: recycled cardboard, old magazine pages, scrap yarn or jute string. Supplies: scissors, hole punch, glue. These choices reuse materials and reduce waste.
4. Example 4 – Classifying Store Items
   A school supply store sells cotton fabric, plastic ribbons, shell charms, and metal key rings. Classify each material and suggest one possible product.
   Show Answer

   Cotton fabric – plant-based, for tote bags or pillowcases; Plastic ribbons – man-made, for gift decorations; Shell charms – animal-based, for necklaces or keychains; Metal key rings – inorganic or man-made, for keychain bases.
5. Example 5 – Simple Bill of Materials for Three Bookmarks
   You plan to make three bookmarks with tassels. Write a short BOM.
   Show Answer

   Sample BOM: Materials – 3 pieces of board paper (5 × 15 cm), 1 meter of yarn for tassels, decorative paper or stickers. Supplies – scissors, ruler, hole punch, glue.

📝 Try It Out

Answer the following in your notebook. Then check your ideas using the suggested answers.

1. Choose one material you commonly see at home (for example, plastic, fabric, or paper). Describe its texture, thickness, and strength.
   Show Answer

   Sample: Cartolina paper is smooth, thin but not too fragile, and can stand upright when folded. However, it can tear if pulled strongly.
2. List two possible materials for making a keychain and compare their advantages.
   Show Answer

   Example: Yarn – soft, colorful, easy to braid; Leather scrap – strong, durable, looks elegant. Learners should mention at least one advantage for each.
3. Create a small table in your notebook with three columns: “Material,” “Good for,” and “Not good for.” Fill it with at least three materials.
   Show Answer

   Teacher checks if learners correctly match material to suitable and unsuitable uses (for example, tissue paper good for decorations, not good for bags).
4. Write three questions you would ask yourself when choosing materials for a pencil case.
   Show Answer

   Sample: “Is this material strong enough to hold pencils?” “Is it easy to clean?” “Can I afford enough of this material for the size I want?”
5. Imagine you have ₱120 to spend on materials. Suggest a simple handicraft project and explain how you will spend the money wisely.
   Show Answer

   Answers may vary. Look for a clear project (for example, bracelets or bookmarks), a short cost breakdown, and evidence of balancing quantity and quality.
6. For an eco-friendly wall décor, list at least three recycled or natural materials you could use.
   Show Answer

   Examples: Old magazine pages, cardboard boxes, dried leaves or flowers, twigs, bottle caps, scrap fabric strips.
7. Draft a mini bill of materials for two identical friendship bracelets using yarn and beads.
   Show Answer

   Sample BOM: Materials – 2 pieces of yarn (about 40–50 cm each), 40 beads total. Supplies – scissors, tape, small tray for beads.
8. Draw and label a simple storage plan for your craft materials in a box or drawer.
   Show Answer

   Teacher checks for groupings such as “paper,” “fabric,” “beads and buttons,” and “tools,” preferably in separate containers or corners.
9. Identify one material that must be handled carefully (for example, sharp, breakable, or with strong smell) and write two safety reminders for using it.
   Show Answer

   Sample: Glass beads – keep in a closed container and avoid dropping; Strong glue – use in a ventilated area and avoid skin contact.
10. Finish this reflection: “When I carefully choose and store supplies and materials, my handicrafts will be…”
    Show Answer

    Encourage words like stronger, neater, more beautiful, safer, and more saleable.

✅ Check Yourself

Answer the items below, then reveal the answers to check your understanding.

1. (Multiple Choice) Which question will best help you judge if a material is suitable for a bag handle?
   a. “Is this material my favorite color?”
   b. “Is this material strong enough to carry weight without breaking?”
   c. “Is this material easy to tear?”
   d. “Is this material popular on social media?”
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: b. “Is this material strong enough to carry weight without breaking?”.
2. (Multiple Choice) Which pair shows two materials that are both plant-based?
   a. Wool and leather
   b. Plastic and nylon
   c. Cotton and bamboo
   d. Glass and metal
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: c. Cotton and bamboo.
3. (True/False) A bill of materials lists what you need, how much you need, and sometimes the cost.
   Show Answer

   True. That is the purpose of a BOM.
4. (True/False) Choosing the most expensive materials always guarantees the best handicraft product.
   Show Answer

   False. The best materials depend on purpose, quality, and budget, not just price.
5. (Short Answer) Give one reason why local materials can be a good choice for handicrafts.
   Show Answer

   They may be cheaper and easier to find, support local workers, and give products a unique local identity.
6. (Multiple Choice) Which material is most appropriate for a long-lasting table coaster?
   a. Thin tissue paper
   b. Thick woven straw
   c. Fragile glass sheet
   d. Very stretchy rubber band
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: b. Thick woven straw.
7. (Short Answer) Why is it important to consider cost when planning a handicraft project?
   Show Answer

   Because you must stay within your budget, price finished products fairly, and avoid wasting money on unnecessary or overly expensive materials.
8. (Short Answer) Give one simple rule for safe storage of craft supplies.
   Show Answer

   Examples: keep sharp tools in a closed container; store adhesives and paints in labeled bottles away from heat; keep materials dry and off the floor.
9. (Multiple Choice) Which set of items is best described as recycled craft materials?
   a. Brand-new beads, new fabric, new glue
   b. Old magazines, used ribbons, bottle caps
   c. Freshly cut bamboo, new yarn, new plastic
   d. Imported clay, new sequins, new lace
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: b. Old magazines, used ribbons, bottle caps.
10. (True/False) Moist and dark storage places are ideal for keeping paper and fabric.
    Show Answer

    False. Moist and dark places can cause mold or damage; materials should be kept dry and clean.
11. (Short Answer) What might happen if you do not estimate material quantities before starting a project?
    Show Answer

    You might run out of materials, need extra trips to buy more, spend more money than planned, or have mismatched items at the end.
12. (Short Answer) How can using recycled materials make your handicraft more attractive to some buyers?
    Show Answer

    Some buyers like eco-friendly products that show creativity and care for the environment, so they may be more interested in crafts using recycled materials.
13. (Multiple Choice) Which combination of actions best shows wise use of supplies and materials?
    a. Buying many materials without a plan
    b. Choosing materials only by color
    c. Planning a BOM, checking costs, and storing materials properly
    d. Ignoring leftover materials after each project
    Show Answer

    Correct answer: c. Planning a BOM, checking costs, and storing materials properly.
14. (Short Answer) Why is it important to respect both the environment and culture when selecting materials?
    Show Answer

    Because it protects natural resources, honors local traditions, and supports communities that depend on responsible use of materials.
15. (Reflection Check) What is one change you will make in how you choose or store craft materials after today’s lesson?
    Show Answer

    Answers will vary. Look for practical changes like planning a materials list, using more recycled items, or organizing supplies in labeled containers.

🚀 Go Further (optional)

1. Mini Market Survey – Visit (or imagine) a nearby store and list three materials sold there that could be used in handicrafts.
   Show Answer

   Teacher guidance: Ask learners to identify each item’s source (plant, animal, inorganic, man-made) and potential craft uses. Discuss which items are affordable and available.
2. Compare Two BOMs – Prepare two different bills of materials for the same product: a “budget version” and a “premium version.”
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Let learners compare quality, cost, and possible selling price. Use this to open discussion on quality levels and target customers.
3. Eco-Poster – Design a small poster encouraging classmates to use recycled or local materials in their crafts.
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Encourage clear slogans and simple visuals. Display selected posters in the classroom or TLE area.
4. Storage Organization Task – In groups, reorganize one box or corner of classroom craft materials.
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Have groups group items by type and label containers. Reflect on how the new arrangement affects class activities.
5. Interview a Crafter – Prepare questions and, if possible, interview someone who sells handmade products about how they choose materials.
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Ask learners to share what they discovered about balancing quality, cost, and customer preferences.

🔗 My Reflection

Notebook prompt:

Imagine you are planning a small handicraft business with your classmates. Choose one product and describe which supplies and materials you will use, where you will get them, and how you will keep the cost low without sacrificing quality and safety. Explain how your choices can also show care for the environment and respect for your community.

Show Answer

Teacher note: Look for answers that mention source, quality, cost, storage, and environmental or cultural considerations. Encourage learners to connect planning skills with real-life opportunities.

Lesson Tools

• 🎯 Learning Goals
• 🧩 Key Ideas & Terms
• 🔄 Quick Recall / Prior Knowledge
• 📖 Explore the Lesson
• 💡 Example in Action
• 📝 Try It Out
• ✅ Check Yourself
• 🚀 Go Further
• 🔗 My Reflection