The wonderful holiday season is upon us, and moms everywhere are looking for ways to make this year even more magical. And, what is better to add some cheer than to create dazzling decor and adorable holiday crafts? These four DIY projects are so simple, even your kids can be a part of the festivities. These crafts aren’t just perfect for the holidays, they’re also affordable and take little time to complete, too. Try one of these four activities to create a bonding experience you and your kids can turn into a tradition.
1. Candy Cane Wreaths
As easy as they are charming, these candy cane wreaths couldn’t be more enticing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Candy canes
- Hot glue gun
- Sparkly red or white snowflake decorations
To create your wreath, just follow these simple steps:
- Use the hot glue gun to glue the candy canes together in a heart shape.
- Glue these hearts back to back until you’ve created a full circle.
- And lastly, glue a snowflake in the center.
If your child is too young to handle a hot glue gun, have them help by handing you candy canes as you go. Also, they can pick out a snowflake at the end. Add some extra fun with multicolored candy canes and snowflakes instead of the standard red and white.
2. Paper Chain Garland
This is one of the simplest and cleanest holiday crafts to do with your kids. These colorful paper chain garlands will be sure to keep you and your kids feeling festive. Here’s all you’ll need:
- Construction paper
- Glue
- Scissors
If you are in a pinch, you can even use folded tape instead of glue. You can use a ruler for precision, or just estimate the size to simplify the process even more. Here’s how to create the garland:
- While holding the construction paper horizontally, simply cut the construction paper into four evenly sized strips. Use the ruler here if desired, or fold the paper in half twice.
- Fold one strip into a circle and glue, then put the next strip through this circle and repeat.
- Continue until your garland has reached the length that suits your fancy.
Congratulations – You’ve completed another fun easy craft with your child. You can vary this craft with different colored paper, by painting or stamping the paper first, or by adding sparkles or stickers.
3. Handprint Cards
For all the loved ones in your life, a handmade card is sure to let them know how much you care this holiday season. And a handmade card literally made in the shape of your child’s hands is priceless. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Construction paper
- Scissors
- A pen or pencil
- If desired, a small photo of your child and glue
To make the handprint card:
- Fold the widest side of a piece of paper in half. Do not fold lengthwise.
- Have your child hold one hand down on the paper with the edge of their palm on the fold. Another method is to use fingerpaint in a shallow dish. Have your child dip their hand in the paint and print it on the folded paper.
- Trace their hand with a pencil and then cut it out.
- You and your child can now write any loving message you want on the card.
- For an extra special touch, glue a small photo of your child on the inside.
You can decorate the handprint any way you and your child want by transforming it into a tree and other things. Just let your imagination go wild. These make great gifts for family, babysitters and teachers.
4. Painted Terra Cotta Pots
This is one of those holiday crafts that you can simplify for the youngest kids. Also, you can make it as intricate as you want for the artistic teen in your family. Regardless of age, your kids will love this activity. All you need are some clean terra cotta pots and acrylic paint. Add sparkles, buttons, or anything else to make this extra creative.
For the youngest, a simple idea is to paint the pot red and the top strip white. Glue two large black buttons to the pot to create Santa’s coat. A more intricate idea is to paint a snowy background and a Christmas tree. Glue on buttons as decorations. You and your family can even come up with your own creative way to decorate your pots.
These holiday crafts are sure to bring you and your family closer this holiday season. They’re quick, fun, affordable, and timeless. Hopefully, you’ll love them so much your family will have new traditions to share for years to come.
