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25+ Crafts to Do with Friends That Spark Creativity and Fun (Perfect for Teens & Beyond) [2026 Edition]

There’s something magical about gathering around a table with your besties, snacks nearby, and a pile of craft supplies ready to go. If you’ve been searching for crafts to do with friends, you’re in for a treat. Crafting together isn’t just about glue, scissors, and glitter—it’s about laughter, creativity, and making memories that last longer than the projects themselves.

Whether you’re looking for creative things to do with friends on a weekend, planning a sleepover activity, or just wanting to unplug from screens, DIY crafts are a perfect choice. From cute easy crafts for teenagers to cool crafts for teens who love a challenge, this guide is packed with ideas to keep your hands busy and your conversations flowing.

Inside, you’ll find fun, budget-friendly projects, simple step-by-step suggestions, and inspiration that works for all ages. So grab your favorite people, raid your craft box, and get ready to turn an ordinary hangout into something colorful and unforgettable.

Why Crafting with Friends is Always a Good Idea

creative things to do with friends

Before diving into the actual projects, let’s set the stage. Crafting is more than just a pastime—it’s a creative outlet that builds stronger friendships. Whether you’re looking for creative things to do with friends on a rainy afternoon or planning a themed sleepover, DIY projects tick all the boxes: affordable, fun, Instagram-worthy, and memory-making.

Crafting together also allows everyone to express their unique personality. While one friend may love bright, glittery projects, another may prefer minimalist designs—and that’s the beauty of it. When you bring a group together, you get an explosion of ideas, inspiration, and results you never would’ve created alone.

So, grab your crafting supplies, call your friends, and let’s explore a list of 25+ fun crafts for teenagers and beyond that you’ll love trying this year.

1. Easy and Cute Crafts for Teens to Start With

Easy and Cute Crafts for Teens to Start

Not every DIY has to take hours. Sometimes, the best projects are simple, quick, and still ridiculously cute. These are cute easy crafts for teenagers that don’t require much skill but give instant results. They’re perfect for after-school downtime, quick weekend activities, or just when you’re in the mood to make something pretty without pulling out an entire craft store’s worth of supplies.

1.1 Friendship Bracelets

Friendship bracelets are a classic craft to do with friends and never go out of style. All you need is embroidery floss, yarn, or even thin ribbons in your favorite color combinations.

  • How to Make It: Cut three or more strands of string, knot them at the top, and secure them with tape or a safety pin. Braid, twist, or experiment with macramé patterns. If you want extra flair, add beads or charms midway through your design.
  • Why It’s Fun: Each bracelet is unique, and you can match them to your outfits, share them with friends, or swap them as a keepsake.
  • Pro Tip: Search for different knotting techniques—like the chevron or diamond pattern—for a more advanced look.

1.2 DIY Beaded Keychains

Keychains may be small, but they’re a big opportunity for self-expression. This craft is all about combining color, texture, and fun details.

  • How to Make It: Use strong nylon thread or a keyring chain as your base. Add beads in colors you love, and throw in letter beads to spell out names, quotes, or inside jokes. Finish with a tassel, charm, or even a mini pom-pom.
  • Why It’s Fun: They’re quick to make and super customizable. You can clip them onto your backpack, keys, or even use them as zipper pulls.
  • Pro Tip: Use glow-in-the-dark beads or metallic accents for a cool twist that stands out.

1.3 Washi Tape Phone Cases

Got a plain phone case lying around? With washi tape, you can transform it into a masterpiece that shows off your personality.

  • How to Make It: Grab patterned washi tape (stripes, florals, metallics, or holographic). Cut and layer strips on your clear phone case to create geometric patterns, zigzags, or even checkerboards. Smooth it down to avoid bubbles.
  • Why It’s Fun: This craft is low-cost, low-mess, and totally reversible—peel off the tape when you want a new design.
  • Pro Tip: Apply a clear sealant or Mod Podge over the finished design to make it last longer.

1.4 Mason Jar Decorating

Mason jars are basically blank canvases for endless creativity. They’re also practical, so you’re crafting something useful and aesthetic.

  • How to Make It: Paint jars in pastel shades or metallic tones, then decorate with lace, twine, ribbons, or stickers. Add stenciled quotes, glitter, or pressed flowers for a personal touch.
  • Why It’s Fun: They can be used as organizers for pens, makeup brushes, fairy lights, or even snack jars. Plus, they double as gifts!
  • Pro Tip: Try frosted glass spray or chalkboard paint to create a soft, trendy look.

1.5 DIY Hair Accessories

If you’re into girly crafts for teens, decorating your own hair accessories is a must-try. They’re inexpensive to make and add instant personality to any outfit.

  • How to Make It: Take plain headbands, scrunchies, or hair clips. Use hot glue to attach rhinestones, pearls, or tiny charms. Fabric flowers and ribbons are also super cute options.
  • Why It’s Fun: You get stylish accessories without spending a lot of money, and you’ll never run out of unique pieces to match your mood.
  • Pro Tip: Create a whole matching set—like earrings, a necklace, and a hair clip—to pull an outfit together.

2. Fun Group Crafts for Sleepovers or Hangouts

Fun Group Crafts for Sleepovers or Hangouts for teenagers

When you’ve got a group of friends together, it’s time to think big. These fun crafts for teenagers are perfect for sleepovers, birthday parties, or just cozy nights in where you want to laugh, snack, and create together. They’re interactive, hands-on, and leave everyone with something to take home.

2.1 Tie-Dye T-Shirts

Tie-dye has made a huge comeback, and it’s one of the most entertaining crafts to do with friends because no two shirts ever look the same.

  • How to Make It: Buy a tie-dye kit (or use fabric paint and rubber bands). Fold or twist a plain white shirt, secure it with rubber bands, and apply the dye in sections. Let it sit, rinse, and admire your masterpiece.
  • Why It’s Fun: Everyone gets to design their own shirt, and the reveal moment when you unwrap it is always exciting.
  • Pro Tip: Try advanced techniques like ice dyeing or bleach tie-dye for unique effects.

2.2 Vision Boards

Vision boards are equal parts craft and self-discovery project. They’re especially fun at the start of a new year or new school term.

  • How to Make It: Cut out pictures, quotes, and words from magazines or print them from Pinterest. Arrange them on a poster board with washi tape, stickers, and markers.
  • Why It’s Fun: It sparks deep conversations with friends about dreams, goals, and what inspires you. Plus, the boards make great wall décor.
  • Pro Tip: Host a “vision board night” with snacks, mood music, and plenty of glitter.

2.3 Painted Tote Bags

Practical meets artsy! Tote bags are eco-friendly, reusable, and fun to customize.

  • How to Make It: Use fabric paint and brushes to create doodles, patterns, or stenciled designs. Splatter paint or handprint art makes for a playful, group-friendly activity.
  • Why It’s Fun: Every bag is useful, and you can show off your design at school, the mall, or the beach.
  • Pro Tip: Bring fabric markers so everyone can sign each other’s bags as a memory of the night.

2.4 Polaroid Scrapbooks

This one doubles as a memory-making activity. It’s perfect for capturing the night as it happens.

  • How to Make It: Use instant cameras (like a Polaroid or Instax). Print photos on the spot, then paste them into a scrapbook. Decorate the pages with stickers, doodles, and handwritten captions.
  • Why It’s Fun: You’re crafting and documenting memories at the same time, making it a keepsake you’ll treasure for years.
  • Pro Tip: Leave a few blank pages so you can add future hangout photos to the same scrapbook.

2.5 Group Canvas Painting

If you want something collaborative, this is the ultimate team craft.

  • How to Make It: Get a large blank canvas and set it up in the middle of your space. Each friend paints a section, or you can all work together on one design. Acrylic paint works best for quick drying.
  • Why It’s Fun: The end result is a one-of-a-kind art piece that reflects everyone’s creativity.
  • Pro Tip: Agree on a theme (like galaxy, floral, or abstract) to keep the design cohesive.

Related Article: Fall Crafts for Kids Ideas (2026): Easy, Fun & Simple DIY Projects

3. Cool Crafts for Teens Who Want Something Unique

Looking to try something different? These cool crafts for teens are trendy, Instagram-worthy, and give you bragging rights for making something original. Perfect for teens who love standing out or want DIY projects that double as art, fashion, or home décor.

3.1 Resin Art

Resin art has become a social media sensation, especially on TikTok and Instagram, and for good reason—it’s mesmerizing to make and looks stunning when finished.

  • How to Make It: Buy a resin kit that comes with epoxy and hardener. Mix the two according to instructions, then pour into silicone molds for keychains, coasters, or jewelry pieces. Before it hardens, add glitter, dried flowers, charms, or even photos to personalize your creation.
  • Why It’s Fun: No two resin pieces are the same, and the glossy finish gives everything a professional look. It’s like creating your own mini art business.
  • Safety Tip: Always work in a ventilated area, wear gloves, and protect your workspace with wax paper or a silicone mat.
  • Pro Tip: Try layering different colors of resin for a dreamy marble effect.

3.2 Shrinky Dinks Jewelry

Remember Shrinky Dinks from childhood? They’re making a huge comeback as cool crafts for teens because they’re so customizable and fun.

  • How to Make It: Buy shrinkable plastic sheets (or recycled #6 plastic). Draw designs using permanent markers, cut them out, then bake them according to the instructions. They’ll shrink down into thick, durable charms. Attach jump rings to turn them into earrings, keychains, or necklaces.
  • Why It’s Fun: You get to design something entirely unique and watch the magical shrinking process happen in the oven.
  • Pro Tip: Outline your designs in bold black before baking—details will shrink down and look even sharper.

3.3 DIY Neon Signs

Want your bedroom or hangout spot to look like a cool café or TikTok backdrop? DIY neon signs are easier to make than they sound.

  • How to Make It: Use flexible LED rope lights (available online in different colors). Bend them into words (like “love,” “dream,” or your name) or shapes (like a heart or star). Secure the rope with clear clips on a foam board or wire grid.
  • Why It’s Fun: It’s instant room décor that feels trendy and aesthetic. Plus, it doubles as a fun photo background.
  • Pro Tip: Choose pastel or warm white neon rope for a soft vibe, or go with bold neon colors for a statement piece.

3.4 Clay Trinket Dishes

Air-dry clay is one of the most forgiving and versatile materials out there, making it perfect for cute crafts to do with friends.

  • How to Make It: Roll out air-dry clay and cut circles using a bowl or cup. Mold the clay into shallow dish shapes, then let them dry completely. Once hardened, paint them with acrylic paints or add pressed flowers for an earthy look.
  • Why It’s Fun: These dishes are functional—you can use them for rings, earrings, or small trinkets. Plus, they make thoughtful handmade gifts.
  • Pro Tip: Add gold paint around the rim for a chic, polished finish.

3.5 Painted Denim Jackets

Turn your everyday denim into wearable art. Painted jackets are bold, expressive, and a guaranteed conversation starter.

  • How to Make It: Use fabric paints or acrylic paints designed for textiles. Sketch a design on the back of your jacket (quotes, flowers, or even a galaxy). Paint carefully, let it dry, and seal with a fabric medium.
  • Why It’s Fun: You’ll have a completely one-of-a-kind fashion piece. Perfect for showing off your personality or creating matching jackets with friends.
  • Pro Tip: Try stenciling if freehand painting feels intimidating—it’s an easy way to achieve crisp, clean designs.

4. Seasonal and Holiday-Themed Crafts with Friends

Crafting gets extra fun when tied to a season or holiday. Whether it’s cozy winter nights, festive fall afternoons, or summer vacation, these themed DIYs are perfect crafts to do with friends all year long.

4.1 Holiday Ornaments

Nothing feels more festive than making your own holiday decorations, and ornaments are easy for everyone to personalize.

  • How to Make It: Buy clear plastic ornaments that open up. Fill them with glitter, fake snow, tiny trinkets, or handwritten notes. You can also paint the outside or wrap them in ribbon.
  • Why It’s Fun: Each ornament tells a story and makes a great keepsake to hang on the tree. Swap them with friends as memory gifts.
  • Pro Tip: Write the year on each ornament so they become treasured holiday time capsules.

4.2 Pumpkin Painting

Skip the carving mess and opt for a more creative—and safer—pumpkin project.

  • How to Make It: Get small pumpkins and acrylic paint. Try pastel shades, metallic paint, or fun patterns like polka dots and stripes. You can also use stencils for clean designs.
  • Why It’s Fun: These pumpkins last longer than carved ones and look adorable as decorations on porches, desks, or tables.
  • Pro Tip: Add googly eyes, glitter, or stickers to give your pumpkins quirky personalities.

4.3 Summer Seashell Crafts

If you love beach vibes, seashell crafts are a great way to bring summer into your home.

  • How to Make It: Collect seashells (or buy a pack). Glue them onto photo frames, create shell magnets with hot glue and magnets, or drill holes to make necklaces and anklets.
  • Why It’s Fun: You get a piece of summer vacation to keep forever, plus seashells are naturally beautiful, so projects look good with minimal effort.
  • Pro Tip: Coat shells with clear nail polish or Mod Podge to enhance their shine.

4.4 Valentine’s Day Cards

Who says Valentine’s Day is only about couples? Making cards with friends is a fun, creative way to celebrate friendship and love in all forms.

  • How to Make It: Use colorful cardstock, glitter glue, markers, and stickers. Create playful designs with hearts, flowers, or puns (like “You’re one in a melon!”).
  • Why It’s Fun: Handmade cards feel more meaningful than store-bought ones, and you can tailor them for friends, family, or classmates.
  • Pro Tip: Add pockets inside the cards to tuck in candies, notes, or tiny trinkets.

4.5 Winter Candle Holders

Nothing sets a cozy winter mood like candlelight, and these DIY holders make it extra magical.

  • How to Make It: Wrap glass jars with lace, twine, or washi tape, then place a tealight inside. You can also frost the glass using spray paint for a snowy look.
  • Why It’s Fun: These glowing creations make rooms feel warm and inviting—perfect for winter nights.
  • Pro Tip: Use LED tealights for a safe, flameless version that still creates the same ambiance.

5. Crafts for Teens Who Love Girly and Aesthetic DIYs

For those who lean into the “aesthetic” side of life, these girly crafts for teens will make your style, room décor, and accessories pop. Think dreamy, Pinterest-worthy vibes that are equal parts functional and beautiful. These projects are perfect for sleepovers, rainy afternoons, or anytime you want to create something that looks like it belongs on your Instagram feed.

5.1 DIY Jewelry Stands

Jewelry stands aren’t just practical—they can be mini works of art that reflect your personality.

  • How to Make It:
    • Use thrifted candlesticks, clay bases, or small wooden boards as your starting point.
    • For a boho look, sculpt a jewelry dish with air-dry clay and attach a vertical rod to hold rings.
    • For a chic vibe, spray-paint thrifted candlesticks gold, white, or pastel, then glue a small plate on top for necklaces and earrings.
  • Why It’s Fun: You’re combining organization with creativity, and your finished stand can proudly sit on your dresser.
  • Pro Tip: Add small hooks or wire accents so you can hang dangling earrings neatly.

5.2 Pressed Flower Bookmarks

These bookmarks are timeless, delicate, and super easy to make. They also make amazing handmade gifts for book-loving friends.

  • How to Make It:
    • Collect flowers and leaves, then press them between heavy books for a week (or use a flower press for quicker results).
    • Arrange them on cardstock or within a laminating pouch.
    • Seal them with clear contact paper or laminate sheets. Punch a hole at the top and tie a ribbon for extra flair.
  • Why It’s Fun: Each bookmark is like a tiny piece of nature preserved forever.
  • Pro Tip: Use seasonal flowers so each bookmark tells a story of when it was made.

5.3 Aesthetic Mood Jars

Mood jars, sometimes called aesthetic jars or sensory jars, are both calming and visually stunning—perfect for your desk or nightstand.

  • How to Make It:
    • Take a glass or plastic jar.
    • Fill with layers of pastel sand, sequins, or glitter.
    • Add battery-operated fairy lights for a dreamy glow.
  • Why It’s Fun: They double as décor and calming stress relievers when you shake or swirl them.
  • Pro Tip: For a softer look, mix clear glue with glitter and water to create a slow-swirling sensory jar.

5.4 Pearl-Decorated Sunglasses

Turn plain sunglasses into a fashion statement with this glamorous yet simple DIY.

  • How to Make It:
    • Buy a pair of inexpensive sunglasses with thick frames.
    • Use flat-back pearls and a hot glue gun (or strong adhesive) to line the frames.
    • You can add pearls all around or just along the top for a subtle glam vibe.
  • Why It’s Fun: Perfect for summer beach days, road trips, or fun photoshoots with friends.
  • Pro Tip: Mix pearls with rhinestones for an even more sparkly aesthetic.

5.5 Vision Collages for Bedrooms

A vision collage is the ultimate girly aesthetic DIY—it’s part art project, part personal motivation board.

  • How to Make It:
    • Collect clippings from magazines, Pinterest printouts, or aesthetic photos.
    • Arrange them on poster board, corkboard, or even directly on your bedroom wall.
    • Add quotes, doodles, and stickers to make it truly yours.
  • Why It’s Fun: It transforms your space while keeping you inspired every day. Doing it with friends makes it even better—you can trade photos and ideas.
  • Pro Tip: Use fairy lights or photo clips to hang your collage pieces in a creative way.

6. Budget-Friendly DIYs for Teens and Friends

Crafting doesn’t need to cost much. In fact, some of the best projects are made with supplies you already have at home. These cute crafts to do prove that you don’t need a big budget to have fun—just creativity and a little resourcefulness.

6.1 Painted Rocks

One of the simplest yet most satisfying creative things to do with friends is rock painting.

  • How to Make It:
    • Collect smooth rocks from outdoors (or buy a bag at a craft store).
    • Use acrylic paint or paint pens to decorate them with mandalas, patterns, cartoon characters, or motivational words.
  • Why It’s Fun: Each rock becomes a mini canvas, and they make great paperweights or outdoor décor.
  • Pro Tip: Seal them with Mod Podge or spray sealer if you plan to leave them outside.

6.2 Origami Creations

Origami only requires paper but opens the door to endless creativity.

  • How to Make It:
    • Start with simple folds like cranes, hearts, or stars.
    • Once you’re comfortable, challenge friends with more advanced designs like flowers or animals.
  • Why It’s Fun: It’s meditative, satisfying, and perfect for group challenges—see who can fold the most intricate design!
  • Pro Tip: Use patterned origami paper for a polished, professional look.

6.3 DIY Bookmarks

Bookmarks are fast, fun, and functional—perfect for students and bookworms.

  • How to Make It:
    • Cut cardstock into strips.
    • Decorate with stickers, doodles, or inspirational quotes.
    • Punch a hole at the top and thread ribbon or yarn for a tassel.
  • Why It’s Fun: They make thoughtful gifts and can be customized endlessly.
  • Pro Tip: Try corner bookmarks folded from origami paper for a fun twist.

6.4 Paper Bead Bracelets

This eco-friendly craft is all about turning old magazines into wearable art.

  • How to Make It:
    • Cut long triangles from colorful magazine pages.
    • Roll tightly around a toothpick, secure with glue, and seal with Mod Podge.
    • String the beads onto elastic cord to make bracelets.
  • Why It’s Fun: They look stylish while recycling paper—double win!
  • Pro Tip: Mix paper beads with regular beads for added texture.

6.5 Painted Flower Pots

Flower pots are easy to find and super fun to customize.

  • How to Make It:
    • Buy inexpensive terracotta pots.
    • Paint them with acrylics—try abstract patterns, quotes, or trendy designs like checkerboards and clouds.
    • Seal with a waterproof coating for longevity.
  • Why It’s Fun: These pots are practical and make great gifts when paired with a small plant or succulent.
  • Pro Tip: Try group-painting pots and swapping them at the end of your hangout—it’s like a mini craft exchange.

7. Crafts That Double as Gifts

Crafting is fun, but you can take it one step further by creating items that make perfect presents. These crafts for teens to make are not only enjoyable to work on but also thoughtful and heartfelt—ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just-because surprises. When you give something handmade, you’re giving time, creativity, and love, which makes the gift extra special.

7.1 Handmade Candles

Candles are always a hit because they’re both cozy and stylish.

  • How to Make It:
    • Melt soy wax or beeswax in a double boiler.
    • Stir in fragrance oils (like lavender, vanilla, or citrus) and add a few drops of dye if you want color.
    • Pour into jars, teacups, or even seashells for a unique container.
    • Let them cool, then trim the wick and decorate the jar with a label, ribbon, or twine.
  • Why It’s Fun: Each candle is completely customizable, from the scent to the container.
  • Pro Tip: For a chic aesthetic, stick to neutral wax colors and minimal labels for that high-end store look.

7.2 DIY Bath Bombs

These fizzy little creations are like mini spa days in a ball. They make pampering gifts that everyone loves.

  • How to Make It:
    • Combine baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salt, and cornstarch.
    • Add essential oils for fragrance and food coloring for fun shades.
    • Lightly spritz the mixture with water until it holds together.
    • Pack into silicone molds (like spheres, stars, or hearts) and let dry for 24 hours.
  • Why It’s Fun: Watching them fizz in the tub is almost as fun as making them.
  • Pro Tip: Wrap them in clear cellophane with a cute ribbon for an instant gift.

7.3 Photo Frames

There’s nothing more meaningful than gifting a photo frame filled with memories.

  • How to Make It:
    • Start with a plain wooden or cardboard frame.
    • Paint it, cover it with glitter, or glue on shells, buttons, or rhinestones.
    • Print a favorite photo with your friends or family and place it inside.
  • Why It’s Fun: It’s a craft and a keepsake rolled into one.
  • Pro Tip: Add a handwritten note or doodle on the back of the frame for an extra surprise.

7.4 Embroidered Tote Bags

For crafty teens who love stitching, this project combines fashion with functionality.

  • How to Make It:
    • Buy blank canvas tote bags (they’re inexpensive and eco-friendly).
    • Sketch a simple design—flowers, names, or a favorite quote.
    • Use embroidery floss and a needle to stitch your design directly onto the fabric.
  • Why It’s Fun: It’s slow and meditative, plus the results are wearable art.
  • Pro Tip: If embroidery feels intimidating, try iron-on patches or fabric paint for a quicker version.

7.5 Handmade Soaps

Pretty soaps are a thoughtful way to show someone you care, and the process is easier than you’d think.

  • How to Make It:
    • Use a melt-and-pour soap base.
    • Add fragrances, food-safe coloring, or extras like glitter, oats, or dried flowers.
    • Pour into molds (hearts, shells, or geometric shapes work great).
    • Once solid, pop them out and wrap in wax paper or a gift box.
  • Why It’s Fun: Handmade soaps look luxurious and smell amazing.
  • Pro Tip: Try layering two or three colors in one bar for an ombré effect.

8. Tips for Hosting the Perfect Craft Night with Friends

Craft nights are one of the best creative things to do with friends because they mix laughter, snacks, and creativity. But a little planning goes a long way in making the evening stress-free and fun for everyone. Here’s how to pull it off like a pro:

8.1 Choose 1–2 Main Projects

  • Don’t overwhelm the group with too many choices. Pick a couple of projects (like friendship bracelets and painted tote bags) that suit different skill levels.
  • This way, everyone can finish something and feel proud of their creation.

8.2 Create a Crafting Station

  • Gather scissors, glue, tape, markers, and other essentials in a central spot so no one has to keep searching.
  • Use trays or baskets to organize supplies for each project—it saves time and avoids mess.

8.3 Set the Mood with Music & Snacks

  • Put together a fun playlist to keep the energy up—something light, upbeat, and sing-along-worthy.
  • Provide easy-to-eat snacks like popcorn, fruit skewers, or cookies so no one gets sticky hands.
  • Bonus: Make a DIY drink station with lemonade or hot cocoa to match the season.

8.4 Encourage Creativity & Flexibility

  • Provide a “base idea” for each craft, but remind everyone they can customize as much as they want.
  • The best part of crafting is when people put their own spin on it!

8.5 Capture the Memories

  • End the night with a mini photo session. Take group shots holding your creations or stage a flat-lay photo of all the finished projects.
  • You’ll have keepsakes not just of the crafts, but also of the time spent together.

Final Thoughts,

Craft nights with friends prove that you don’t need fancy supplies or a big budget to create something meaningful. These crafts to do with friends are more than just projects—they’re a chance to laugh, bond, and spark your inner creativity.

Whether you’re diving into fun crafts for teenagers, trying girly crafts for teens, or exploring cool DIYs as a group, there’s always joy in the process.

The best part? These ideas fit any space, from a cozy bedroom floor to a living room coffee table, and they’re as flexible as your imagination.

So why not invite your crew, gather some supplies, and make your next hangout unforgettable? Start small, get creative, and let the fun flow—you’ll end up with crafts (and memories) worth keeping.

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