Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, planning a rainy-day activity, or looking for a simple classroom craft that won’t leave you cleaning glitter off the floor for a week, this one checks every box. Kids of almost any age can make these on their own (with a little grown-up help for the hot glue step), and the finished hats double as ornaments, gift tags, or festive place cards.

Best of all? This craft is endlessly customizable. Once you’ve got the basic hat shape down, you can dress it up with just about any Christmas decoration you have on hand. We’ll walk you through the classic version first, then share our favorite ways to take it up a notch.

Why This Craft Is a Holiday Party Must-Have

There’s a reason this simple craft has been a holiday favorite for years. It’s fast, it’s foolproof, and it works for almost any group size. Whether you’ve got two kids or twenty, everyone can be making their own Santa hat within minutes of sitting down at the table.

It’s also a fantastic sensory and fine motor activity for little hands. Tracing, cutting, and gluing all help build hand-eye coordination, and kids get a real sense of pride from seeing their craft take shape right in front of them.

And because it uses basic supplies, it’s an easy one to have on standby. Keep a bag of craft sticks and cotton balls in your holiday bin, and you’ll always have a backup activity ready to go for a party, a snow day, or a bored kid on winter break.

Best For

Kid-friendly craft, ages 3 and up (younger kids will need help with cutting and gluing). Great for holiday parties, classroom activities, playdates, and family craft nights.

Time to Make

About 5 to 10 minutes per hat, plus a few minutes of drying time if you’re using hot glue.

What You’ll Need

Red craft sticks (popsicle sticks). Look for pre-dyed red ones at your local craft store, or use plain wooden craft sticks and paint them red yourself.

Red construction paper or cardstock

Cotton balls

White pom poms (small size, for the top of the hat)

Scissors

A pencil

School glue and a hot glue gun (adult use recommended for the hot glue)

How to Make Popsicle Stick Santa Hats

Step 1: Build the triangle frame.

Take three craft sticks and arrange them into a triangle shape, with two sticks forming the sides and one stick laid across the bottom. Have your child hold the sticks in place while an adult uses the hot glue gun to secure each corner. Let the glue cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Trace your triangle.

Place the glued craft stick triangle on top of a piece of red construction paper. Trace around the inside edge of the triangle with a pencil. Repeat this for as many hats as you’re planning to make.

Step 3: Cut out the paper triangle.

Here’s the trick that makes this step foolproof: don’t cut directly on the pencil line. Instead, cut about a quarter inch outside of the line, so your paper triangle ends up slightly larger than the traced shape. This gives you a little wiggle room and makes sure the paper fully covers the back of the craft stick frame.

Step 4: Glue the paper to the frame.

Flip the craft stick triangle over and glue the red paper triangle to the back using regular school glue. Press down firmly around the edges so the paper sticks to all three sides.

Step 5: Add the fur trim.

Glue cotton balls along the bottom edge of the triangle, working left to right until the entire bottom is covered. This is the “fur brim” of your Santa hat, so don’t be shy about layering the cotton balls close together for a fuller look.

Step 6: Top it off.

Glue one white pom pom (or a rolled-up cotton ball) to the top point of the triangle. This finishes off the classic Santa hat shape and gives kids a satisfying final step to complete their craft.

And that’s it. In just six easy steps, you’ve got a Santa hat craft that’s ready to hang, gift, or display anywhere in the house.

5 Ways to Make Your Santa Hats Extra Festive

The classic red-and-white hat is adorable on its own, but a few small additions can take this craft from cute to absolutely showstopping. Here are our favorite upgrades to try this year.

1. Add a mini Christmas scene. Before gluing on the fur trim, decorate the red paper triangle with tiny stickers or paper cutouts of a Christmas tree, a snowflake, or a sprig of holly. It’s a small touch that makes every hat feel one-of-a-kind.

2. Swap in glitter paper. Instead of plain red construction paper, use red glitter cardstock for the triangle. It catches the light beautifully and instantly makes the craft feel more special, especially if these hats are headed for the Christmas tree.

3. Give them some sparkle. Trace the edges of the craft sticks with a gold or silver glitter glue pen. Let it dry completely before moving on to the next step. This tiny detail adds a polished, boutique-store look to a craft that costs pennies to make.

4. Personalize with a name. Write each guest’s name across the red triangle in gold paint pen or a metallic marker before adding the trim. This turns your Santa hats into place cards for a holiday dinner table or name tags for a classroom coat hook.

5. Add jingle bells. Glue one or two small jingle bells to the pom pom at the top of the hat. Kids love the little jingle sound, and it adds a playful, tactile element that makes the finished craft even more fun to hold.

You don’t need to use every idea on every hat. Even picking just one or two upgrades is enough to make your batch of Santa hats feel completely fresh this year.

3 Fun Ways to Use Your Finished Santa Hats

Once your Santa hats are made, the fun doesn’t have to stop there. Here are a few of our favorite ways to put them to use around the house or at your next holiday gathering.

Turn them into ornaments. Glue or tape a small loop of red and white baker’s twine to the back of the hat, then hang it right on the Christmas tree. It’s a handmade ornament kids will want to point out to every guest who walks through the door.

Use them as gift tags. Write a name directly on the front of the hat, punch a small hole near the top, and thread a ribbon through to attach it to a wrapped present. It instantly upgrades any gift under the tree.

Set them up as place cards. If you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a kids’ Christmas party, prop a Santa hat with each guest’s name at their seat. It’s a festive, no-cost way to add a personal touch to your table setting.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Craft Session

Keep the hot glue gun to adults only, especially with younger children, and let each glued section fully cool before handing it back to your child for the next step.

If you’re making a big batch for a party or classroom, assemble all of the craft stick triangles ahead of time. That way kids can jump straight into the fun parts, like tracing, cutting, and decorating, without a long wait for glue to dry.

Running low on cotton balls? Small white pom poms work just as well for the fur trim and hold their shape a little better over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without a hot glue gun?

Yes. Regular school glue or a glue stick will work for the craft stick triangle, it will just need more time to dry before you move on to the next step.

What if I can’t find red craft sticks?

Plain wooden craft sticks work perfectly. Simply paint them red with acrylic craft paint and let them dry completely before assembling your triangle.

How far in advance can I make these?

These hats hold up well and can easily be made a few weeks ahead of your holiday party or gathering. Store them flat in a box to keep the cotton ball trim looking full and fluffy.

Bring the Holiday Fun to Your Next Gathering

This Popsicle Stick Santa Hat craft is proof that the simplest projects are often the most memorable. With just a few supplies and a handful of minutes, you and your kids can create decorations, gift tags, and keepsakes that make the whole season feel a little more festive.

Pick a few of the decoration upgrades above, gather the family around the table, and let the holiday crafting begin. However you decide to dress them up, these little Santa hats are guaranteed to bring some extra cheer to your home this Christmas.

This isn’t just a craft. It’s a full-blown party moment. Picture a table lined with jewel-toned tissue paper, a few pairs of kid-safe scissors, and a row of little hands turning plain paper into stained-glass-style Christmas trees that catch the light like tiny works of art.

Best of all, this craft is practically foolproof. There’s no tricky folding, no drying time, and no mess that requires a mop. Just cut, stick, and shine.

Whether you’re hosting a classroom holiday party, a family gathering, or your kid’s birthday-turned-Christmas bash, this suncatcher station is guaranteed to be the spot everyone gathers around. Let’s get you set up to host it like a pro.

Why This Craft Is a Guaranteed Hit

Suncatchers have a magic trick built right in: the second you hold one up to a window, it lights up like stained glass. Kids lose their minds over this every single time.

It’s also a fantastic fine motor skills workout disguised as fun. Little hands get practice cutting, arranging, and pressing, all while making something they’re genuinely proud of.

And because every tree comes out different depending on how the tissue paper gets layered, there’s zero pressure to make it “perfect.” Every single result looks intentional and beautiful.

Best For:

Kids ages 3 and up, classroom parties, holiday craft stations, family gatherings, birthday parties with a Christmas theme.

Time to Make:

20-30 minutes per suncatcher, plus a few extra minutes if you’re setting up a full craft station for multiple kids at once.

What You’ll Need

• Green or black construction paper (for the tree outline)
• Colored tissue paper in various shades of green, plus pops of red, gold, and white
• Clear contact paper
• Scissors
• A pencil
• A hole punch or star-shaped craft punch (optional, but highly recommended)
• String or yarn, for hanging the finished suncatchers

No printable template needed here. You’ll simply hand-draw your tree shape freehand, which actually makes this even more accessible for a last-minute party activity. A classic Christmas tree silhouette is just a tall triangle with a few “branches” stepped out along the sides, similar to a stack of three or four triangles getting wider toward the bottom.

How to Make Your Christmas Tree Suncatcher

1. Draw your tree.

On a piece of green or black construction paper, sketch a simple Christmas tree shape. Keep the lines big and bold so little hands can follow them easily. Add a small star shape at the top if you’d like a topper.

2. Cut out the inside of the tree.

This is the key step that makes the “stained glass” effect possible. Carefully cut around the tree’s outline first, then cut out the interior of the shape, leaving just the outer frame like a stencil.

3. Add your contact paper.

Peel the backing off a piece of clear contact paper and press it sticky-side up onto the back of your tree frame. This creates the surface your tissue paper will stick to.

4. Prep your tissue paper.

Cut or tear your tissue paper into small squares, roughly one inch each. For extra sparkle, punch a handful of tiny stars or dots out of gold and red tissue paper to use as “ornaments” and “lights.”

5. Fill in the tree.

Working on the sticky side of the contact paper, layer the tissue paper squares to fill the entire tree shape. Overlapping pieces slightly creates a richer, more dimensional color effect once the light shines through.

6. Add the ornaments and lights.

Scatter your punched star and dot shapes throughout the tree for a decorated, twinkling look. This step is what takes your suncatcher from “nice” to “wow.”

7. Seal it up.

Press a second piece of contact paper over the top to lock all the tissue paper securely in place. This step makes your suncatcher sturdy enough to last well beyond the party.

8. Trim the edges.

Cut around the tree shape one final time to clean up any excess contact paper.

9. Hang it up and let it shine.

Punch a small hole near the top, thread a piece of string through, and hang your suncatcher in a sunny window to watch it glow.

5 Ways to Make Your Suncatchers Even More Show-Stopping

The classic version of this craft is already beautiful, but a few small upgrades can take your holiday craft station from cute to absolutely magazine-worthy.

1. Go for an ombre effect. Instead of scattering random shades of green, layer your tissue paper from dark green at the bottom of the tree to a lighter, almost mint green near the top. The gradient looks incredibly polished once it’s backlit.

2. Add a glitter topcoat. Before sealing your second layer of contact paper, sprinkle a light dusting of fine glitter over the tissue paper. It gets locked in place and adds a gorgeous shimmer that catches the light beautifully.

3. Try a metallic star topper. Swap plain gold tissue paper for metallic or holographic tissue paper on the star. It reflects light in a completely different way and instantly upgrades the whole design.

4. Build a whole ornament family. Cut a few extra tree shapes in different sizes to hang together in a cluster, like a mini Christmas tree forest in your window. Grouped suncatchers photograph beautifully and make a serious style statement.

5. Color-code by guest. If you’re hosting multiple kids, assign each child a slightly different color palette, like traditional red and green, icy blues and silvers, or warm golds and whites. Every finished tree ends up unique, and each kid gets a suncatcher that feels totally their own.

Turn It Into a Full Party Craft Station

Want to make this the highlight of your holiday gathering? Set it up as a self-serve station so guests can create at their own pace.

Pre-cut a stack of tree outlines ahead of time so kids can jump straight into the fun part. This also saves you from managing scissors for younger guests.

Sort your tissue paper squares into small bowls or trays by color. This keeps the table tidy and makes the whole setup feel intentional rather than chaotic.

Set out a “finished tree” display area near a window so kids can hang their suncatcher up right away and see it glow. Watching their creation light up is honestly half the fun.

If you’re short on time, a Christmas tree suncatcher station is one of those party games and activities that requires almost no supervision once it’s set up, which means you get to actually enjoy your own party too.

Pro Tip:

Skip the second layer of contact paper if you want a more delicate, true stained-glass look. Just know your suncatchers will be a bit more fragile, so this version works best as a decoration rather than a take-home party favor.

Fun Variation:

Not into trees? This exact technique works beautifully for ornament shapes, snowflakes, stars, or even a simple wreath outline. Once your guests get the hang of the tissue paper technique, they can create an entire matching set of holiday suncatchers to fill your windows all season long.

With this craft station set up and ready to go, you’re all set to host a holiday party your guests will be talking about long after the last tree is hung in the window. Because the best parties are the ones filled with a little glitter, a lot of laughter, and windows that glow.

The Handprint Christmas Lights Craft turns a simple paint-and-press project into a string of ornaments that look like a strand of glowing holiday lights, except every single “bulb” is shaped exactly like your child’s palm and fingers. Hang the finished strand across a mantel, drape it on the tree, or clip it to a window, and you’ve got a decoration nobody else on the block has.

Here’s the best part: this craft grows with your family. Make one strand every December, and in ten years you’ll have a garland that’s basically a visual timeline of tiny hands turning into not-so-tiny hands. That’s the kind of decoration you don’t put in storage – you put it front and center every single year.

Let’s get into exactly how to make it, plus some upgrades that take this from “cute classroom craft” to “genuinely stunning holiday decor.”

Why This Craft Is a Guaranteed Win

This isn’t just a craft to kill twenty minutes before nap time. It’s a decoration with real staying power.

It’s low-cost. You’re working with paint, paper, and string – nothing you need to special-order.

It’s flexible. One handprint makes an ornament. Five handprints (from five kids, or five years of the same kid) makes a full garland.

And it’s sentimental in a way that a Target ornament will never be. Every host who’s tried this says the same thing: the finished garland ends up being the one decoration guests ask about.

What You’ll Need

Cardstock or heavy paper (white or cream works best so the paint pops)

Acrylic or washable kids’ paint in your bulb colors – go with classic Christmas red, green, gold, blue, and purple, or pick a color story that matches your existing decor

Paintbrushes, one per color if you’re working with multiple kids at once

Colored cardstock or construction paper for the bulb “backing” (this is what gives each ornament its outline color)

Scissors

Glue stick or tape

A black marker or a small strip of black cardstock, for the bulb “cap”

Baker’s twine, ribbon, or string to link the bulbs into a garland

A stapler (optional, but it makes assembly faster)

Glitter glue, sequins, or small gems, for decorating (optional but highly recommended – more on this below)

How to Make It: Step by Step

You don’t need a printable template for this one. A Christmas bulb is just an oval with a flat top, and you can draw it freehand in under a minute. Here’s the full process.

Step 1: Draw your bulb shape. On a piece of paper, trace a simple oval, roughly the size of your child’s open hand plus a little extra room on all sides. Flatten the top slightly and add a small rectangle above it, that’s your bulb’s metal cap. If you want a shortcut, trace around a small bowl or a large cup for a perfect oval every time.

Step 2: Cut out your template and trace it onto your colored cardstock, one bulb per light you want in your garland. This colored piece becomes the border around each handprint, so pick colors that pop.

Step 3: Cut a slightly smaller oval out of plain white or cream cardstock. This inner piece is where the handprint goes, and it should sit inside the colored border with a little colored edge showing all the way around, just like a real string light.

Step 4: Paint your child’s hand. Use a paintbrush to coat their palm and fingers evenly in your chosen color. Have them keep their fingers together as you paint. This one detail makes a huge difference in step 5.

Step 5: Press the hand onto the white cardstock, fingers pointed up or down depending on how you want the bulb to sit. Press firmly but don’t let little hands wiggle. Peel straight up in one smooth motion to avoid smudging.

Step 6: Let the paint dry completely before you touch it again. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes for acrylic paint, so this is a great moment to start a second color or take a snack break.

Step 7: Glue the white handprint piece onto the colored bulb-shaped backing, centering it so you get an even colored border all the way around.

Step 8: Add the cap. Cut a small black rectangle and glue it to the top of the bulb, where the “wire” would connect. Draw two or three horizontal lines across it with a white or silver marker for that classic bulb-cap look.

Step 9: String them together. Punch a small hole through the top of each bulb’s cap, or simply staple a length of twine to the back. Thread your twine or ribbon through each bulb in order, spacing them a few inches apart, until your whole garland is strung.

That’s it. You’ve got a one-of-a-kind handprint light garland, ready to hang.

Give It a Glow-Up: 6 Ways to Make This Craft Even More Stunning

The original version of this craft is sweet, but a plain painted oval on a plain colored background can look a little flat once it’s hanging on the wall next to your actual string lights. Here’s how to make each bulb look genuinely dazzling.

1. Add a glitter glow. Once the paint is fully dry, trace a thin glitter glue outline around the edge of each handprint. It mimics the way real bulbs catch light, and it instantly makes the ornament photograph better for your holiday cards or Instagram.

2. Go metallic on the caps. Skip the black marker lines and use a metallic gold or silver paint pen for the bulb cap instead. It’s a five-second swap that makes every single bulb look more polished.

3. Add a sequin or gem “shine spot.” Glue one small round gem or sequin near the top corner of each bulb, the same way real ornaments have a bright highlight. It’s a tiny detail that reads as “professionally decorated” instead of “craft project.”

4. Try an ombré color story. Instead of five totally different colors, paint each hand in a shade from the same family, like deep red fading into blush pink, or emerald into mint. Hung in order, the garland reads as one cohesive, designer-style piece instead of a mismatched rainbow.

5. Frost the edges. Dip just the fingertips in white paint before pressing the hand down, so each bulb comes out with a soft “frosted” tip. It’s an easy way to tie the craft into a winter wonderland theme, not just a Christmas one.

6. Upgrade your string. Skip plain twine and use a pre-lit LED garland wire as your base, then clip each handprint bulb onto it with tiny mini clothespins. Now your handprint garland is an actual string of lights, glowing bulbs and all.

More Ways to Play With It (Beyond the Garland)

The classic move is stringing every bulb into one long garland, but that’s just the starting point. Here are a few more ways to get creative with the same core craft.

Turn it into a wreath. Instead of a straight line, arrange five or six bulbs in a circle around a paper plate ring or a foam wreath form. Add a bow at the top and you’ve got a handprint wreath for the front door.

Make individual ornaments. Skip the string entirely and turn each bulb into its own tree ornament with a loop of ribbon at the top. Great if you’ve got multiple kids and want to avoid a “whose garland is this” negotiation.

Turn it into place cards. Shrink the template down, write a guest’s name on the back of each bulb, and use them as place settings for your holiday dinner table. Every guest goes home with a keepsake instead of a folded piece of cardstock.

Build a family countdown. Number each bulb 1 through 24 or 25 and hang them as a handmade advent countdown, one bulb removed each day until the big day arrives.

Bonus: Add a Christmas Wish

Here’s the detail that makes this craft feel extra special: flip each bulb over and write “My Christmas wish is…” followed by your child’s answer. It takes ten seconds, and it turns a decoration into a genuine keepsake. Years from now, that scribbled wish is going to hit a lot harder than the handprint itself.

If you’re making this with a toddler who can’t talk yet, jot down their age and the date instead. Either way, future-you will thank present-you for writing it down.

Pro Tips for a Smoother Craft Session

Work with one hand at a time if you’ve got multiple kids, so paint doesn’t dry out or transfer before you’re ready to press.

Lay down newspaper or a plastic tablecloth first. Handprint crafts are fun, but they are also, without exception, messy.

Keep a damp washcloth nearby for quick hand cleanups between colors.

If a print comes out smudged, don’t stress. A slightly imperfect handprint still looks completely charming once it’s cut out and framed by its colored border, and honestly, that’s part of the charm of a handmade piece.

Laminate the finished bulbs if you want this garland to survive being packed away and pulled back out for years to come. Write the year on the back of each one before you store it, so future-you can track exactly how much those little hands have grown.

A Decoration Worth Keeping Every Year

Store-bought garlands come down every January and get forgotten in a box until next December. This one’s different. Every year you add a new strand, you’re not just decorating, you’re building a keepsake that gets more meaningful with every hand that’s grown a little bigger.

Whether you hang it as one long garland, break it into individual ornaments, or turn it into a full wreath, this craft is proof that the best holiday decorations aren’t the ones you buy, they’re the ones you make together.

These Christmas light suncatchers are stained-glass-style light bulbs made from tissue paper and contact paper, and they catch the sun in a way that looks genuinely magical. No plug. No batteries. Just color and light doing all the work.

They’re also one of the easiest holiday crafts you’ll ever set up. If you’ve got tissue paper, contact paper, and about 20 minutes, you’re basically already done.

This one’s perfect for a family craft afternoon, a classroom party, a cookie-decorating playdate, or a kids’ table activity while the grown-ups handle the actual holiday dinner. Whatever the occasion, this craft delivers big holiday cheer for very little effort.

Why This Craft Is a Party-Planner’s Secret Weapon

Every host needs a few go-to activities that are low-mess, low-cost, and impossible to mess up. This is one of ours.

It’s mess-free. There’s no paint, no glue, and no glitter required (unless you want it – more on that below). Everything sticks together using the contact paper itself.

It works for a wide range of ages. Preschoolers can tear tissue paper and press it down. Older kids can get precise about color placement and patterns. Adults enjoy it too, honestly.

It doubles as decor. Once it’s made, it’s not going in a junk drawer. It’s going straight in the window, where it earns its keep all season long.

It’s budget-friendly. You likely already have most of what you need sitting in a craft drawer somewhere.

What You’ll Need

Cardstock (a sturdy white cardstock works best for tracing a clean bulb shape)

Clear contact paper

Tissue paper in assorted colors (red, green, gold, blue, pink, purple)

Scissors

A black permanent marker or black cardstock, for the bulb outline and cap

String or twine (optional, for stringing multiple bulbs together)

Tape or removable adhesive hooks, for hanging

No printable needed. A classic light bulb shape is just an oval with a slightly pointed top and a small rectangle “cap” at the base – think of a teardrop with a plug on it. You can freehand it, trace a plastic Easter egg or a light bulb ornament for the rounded part, or use a drinking glass to trace a smooth curve. It genuinely does not need to be perfect. Slightly wonky bulbs still look great once the color is in.

How to Make Christmas Light Suncatchers

Follow these steps and you’ll have a finished suncatcher in under half an hour.

1. Draw your bulb outline. On cardstock, sketch an oval-teardrop shape with a small cap rectangle on top. Cut it out. This becomes your template – trace around it as many times as the number of bulbs you want to make.

2. Cut two pieces of contact paper for each bulb, slightly larger than your template on all sides.

3. Peel the backing off one piece and lay it sticky-side up on your table. Tape the corners down so it doesn’t shift while little hands are working on it.

4. Place your bulb outline face-down onto the sticky contact paper and press gently. This keeps the outline crisp and visible from the front once it’s flipped.

5. Fill it with color. Tear or snip tissue paper into small pieces and press them onto the sticky area inside the outline. Cover every bit of sticky space so light can shine through evenly – gaps will show up as dark spots once it’s hanging.

6. Seal it. Once the tissue paper fills the shape, place your second piece of contact paper on top, sticky sides together, and smooth out any air bubbles with your hand.

7. Trim the excess around the outer edge of the bulb shape.

8. Add the black cap and outline using a black marker directly on the contact paper, or by cutting a thin strip of black cardstock and taping it to the top as the “socket.” This is the detail that makes it instantly read as a Christmas light.

9. Hang it up. Tape it directly to a window, or punch a small hole in the top and thread string through to hang it from a curtain rod, mantel, or garland.

Make a handful of these in different colors and tape them in a row across a window. Instant string of lights, no cords required.

5 Ways to Make These Even More Eye-Catching This Year

The original version of this craft is lovely, but here’s how to take it from “cute kids’ project” to “genuinely stunning window display.”

1. Go ombre. Instead of one solid color per bulb, layer tissue paper from light to dark within the same shape – pale pink fading into deep red, or lime green fading into forest green. It creates a gorgeous gradient effect when the light hits it.

2. Add a metallic shimmer. Swap a few standard tissue colors for metallic gold, silver, or copper tissue paper. These reflect light rather than just letting it pass through, so your string of bulbs will actually sparkle even after the sun goes down, thanks to nearby lamp or fairy light glow.

3. Frame them with real fairy lights. Hang your finished suncatchers directly onto a strand of battery-operated LED string lights instead of plain twine. During the day, the sun does the work. At night, the fairy lights glow right through the tissue paper. You get a display that works around the clock.

4. Try a two-tone bulb. Split the bulb shape in half and use two contrasting colors – red and green, or blue and silver – for a peppermint-inspired look that photographs beautifully.

5. Personalize the string. Instead of plain colored bulbs, write a letter on each one so the whole strand spells out JOY, NOEL, or a family name. Great for a mantel display or a classroom door.

Pro Tips

A few things worth knowing before you dive in.

Smaller pieces of tissue paper create a richer, more textured look than a few large sheets. Encourage tearing over cutting for a more organic, stained-glass feel.

Tape your contact paper down before you start. This one small step prevents 90% of the frustration that comes with this craft, especially with younger kids involved.

Work in batches. Prep all your bulb outlines and contact paper pieces ahead of time so the actual “fun part” – adding color – can happen without any downtime. This keeps kids engaged and prevents the dreaded mid-craft meltdown.

Hang them at different heights if you’re doing a full window display. A staggered, uneven arrangement actually looks more like a real strand of lights than a perfectly straight row.

Great For These Occasions

Family craft night during the holiday season

Classroom holiday parties, where each student makes a bulb and you display them together as one long garland

Kids’ table activity at a holiday gathering, to keep little ones busy while the adults visit

Cookie decorating playdates, as a second activity once the cookies are in the oven

Sunday School or after-school program holiday sessions

This craft is kid-friendly for essentially all ages with adult supervision, and it works equally well as a solo rainy-afternoon activity or a group party project for a full room of kids.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a printable template to make this work?

Not at all. A basic oval-with-a-cap shape is all you need, and it doesn’t have to be perfectly symmetrical. Trace a light bulb ornament, an egg, or just freehand it.

Can I skip the contact paper and use glue instead?

Contact paper is what gives this craft its glowing, stained-glass look and keeps things mess-free. Glue tends to make the tissue paper opaque and less vibrant when light passes through, so we’d recommend sticking with contact paper if you can.

How long do these last?

Taped to a window out of direct rain or moisture, these can easily last the whole holiday season. Store them flat in a folder if you want to reuse them next year.

What if I don’t have tissue paper on hand?

Thin, translucent papers like cellophane wrapping paper scraps or colored vellum can work in a pinch, though classic tissue paper gives the most authentic stained-glass texture.

Final Thoughts

This is exactly the kind of craft we love recommending: cheap, simple, genuinely fun to make, and the end result actually looks impressive hanging in a window. It’s proof that you don’t need a big budget or hours of prep to bring some real holiday magic into your home.

Round up your tissue paper, grab the kids, and get that window glowing. Because the best holiday memories are usually made with scraps of paper, a little sunlight, and someone you love sitting right next to you.

We’ve taken the original Rudolph handprint and dressed him up. Think sparkly antlers, a whole herd of reindeer siblings, and clever new ways to use this craft as more than just a keepsake – from place cards to gift tags to the star of your holiday party favor table.

Whether you’re hosting a classroom party, a family gathering, or a Santa-themed playdate, this is the kind of craft that keeps kids busy, gives parents an heirloom, and photographs beautifully for your holiday cards. Let’s dive in.

Best For, Time, and What You’ll Get

Best for: Kids ages 2 and up (with adult help for cutting and gluing), classroom parties, family craft nights, and holiday gift-making sessions.

Time to Make: 20-30 minutes per reindeer, plus drying time for glue.

Makes: One reindeer per handprint – perfect for making one per child, or a whole herd if you’ve got a big guest list.

What You’ll Need

The original supply list is a great starting point. Here’s what you need for the classic version, plus a few extras if you want to take the decoration up a notch.

The essentials:

• Brown cardstock (for tracing the hand, head, and tail)
• Small jingle bells
• Thin red ribbon
• Small red pom poms (for the nose)
• Small googly eyes
• Brown pipe cleaners (for the antlers)
• Tacky glue or hot glue (adult assistance recommended for hot glue)
• Scissors and a pencil

Optional upgrades for extra festive flair:

• Glitter pipe cleaners instead of plain brown, for antlers that catch the light
• A small strip of plaid or velvet ribbon to tie into a bow under the chin
• Metallic gold or red cardstock scraps for a tiny holly leaf or star accent
• A silver or gold paint pen for adding a personalized name or year
• Craft gems or sequins as an alternative to a pom pom nose for extra sparkle

Pro Tip: If you’re making a batch for a classroom or party, pre-cut the cardstock ahead of time. Little hands can trace and decorate, but pre-cutting saves a huge amount of time when you’re managing a group.

How to Make a Reindeer Handprint

Follow these steps in order and you really can’t go wrong. We’ve made dozens of these, and this is the exact process that gives you the cleanest, cutest result every time.

Step 1: Trace the hand. Fold your brown cardstock in half if you’re making this into a card. Lay the child’s hand flat with the wrist resting right on the folded edge, and trace around it with a pencil.

Step 2: Cut it out. Cut along your traced line. For the top of the hand (where the fingers are), try to cut it so it forms a fairly straight line across – this is what gives your reindeer its clean, body-like shape once assembled.

Step 3: Add a head and tail. Cut a small oval or circle for the head and a tiny triangle for the tail, both from the same brown cardstock. Glue the head to the top of the thumb side of the handprint, and the tail to the opposite end.

Step 4: Make the antlers. Cut two small pieces of brown (or glitter) pipe cleaner, then two additional smaller pieces. Twist a small piece onto each larger piece to form a Y-shaped antler. Glue both antlers to the back of the reindeer’s head so they peek up over the top.

Step 5: Add the face. Glue on two googly eyes and one red pom pom nose. Center the nose right at the bottom of the head for that classic Rudolph look.

Step 6: String the jingle bells. Cut a length of thin red ribbon and thread three small jingle bells onto it. Tie the ribbon across the reindeer’s neck like a little collar, right where the head meets the body.

Step 7: Add a hanger (for ornaments) or leave it flat (for cards). If you’re making an ornament, glue or tape a small loop of ribbon to the back of the head for hanging. If you’re making a card, skip this step and move on to writing your message.

Step 8: Write your message. If you folded your cardstock into a card, open it up and write “Merry Christmas,” a holiday poem, or a sweet note from your little one on the inside. This is the part that turns a craft into a keepsake – don’t skip it.

Pro Tip: Always write the child’s age and the date on the back. In a few years, this small detail becomes the most treasured part of the whole craft – you’ll be able to see exactly how much that little hand has grown.

5 Ways to Make Your Reindeer Handprint More Festive

The original version is charming on its own, but a few small tweaks can turn this into the standout craft at your holiday gathering. Here’s how we like to dress ours up.

1. Go metallic. Swap the plain brown cardstock body for a shimmery bronze or copper cardstock. It photographs beautifully and adds an unexpected touch of sparkle without any extra steps.

2. Build a reindeer herd. Use different shades of brown, tan, and even white cardstock to make a whole family of reindeer – one for each family member’s handprint. Line them up on a mantel or string them across a wall for an instant, personalized garland.

3. Add a plaid bow. Tie a small strip of plaid or velvet ribbon into a bow right under the chin, above the jingle bells. It’s a tiny addition that makes the whole craft feel more “boutique” than “classroom.”

4. Personalize the antlers. Use a gold paint pen to write the child’s name or the year along one antler. It’s a small detail, but it makes each reindeer completely one of a kind.

5. Upgrade the nose. Swap the classic red pom pom for a red rhinestone or sequin cluster. It catches the light on the tree and gives Rudolph a little extra sparkle.

Creative Ways to Use This Craft at Your Christmas Party

This craft is a lot more versatile than just a card or an ornament. Here are a few of our favorite ways to work it into a holiday gathering.

As a place card. Write each guest’s name across the reindeer’s belly and prop it up at each table setting. It doubles as a party favor guests can take home.

As a gift tag. Punch a small hole near the antlers and thread ribbon through to attach it directly to a wrapped present. It instantly makes any gift look more thoughtful.

As a craft station at the party itself. Set up a table with pre-cut cardstock shapes, glue, and decorations, and let guests build their own reindeer as an activity. It keeps kids busy while the adults mingle, and everyone leaves with a handmade souvenir.

As a cookie exchange or party favor topper. Attach a small reindeer to the top of a gift bag or treat box. It turns a simple party favor into something a guest will actually want to keep.

As a family keepsake ornament. Make one per child every year and date it on the back. Over time, you’ll build an entire collection that tracks how much your little ones have grown – it’s one of those Christmas traditions that gets more meaningful with every year you do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is this craft best for?

Kids as young as 2 can participate with help tracing and gluing. Kids 5 and up can usually manage most of the cutting and assembly on their own, with supervision around scissors and hot glue.

Can adults make this too?

Absolutely. This craft works just as well as a fun activity for an adult holiday party or a “make and take” station at a work party. Adults tend to get just as into the decorating as kids do.

How do I keep the handprint from getting damaged over the years?

Store finished ornaments flat in a labeled box or bag between seasons, and keep them away from excess humidity. The cardstock holds up well for years if it’s stored flat rather than crumpled.

Can I make this without a die-cut machine?

Yes – this entire craft is designed to be made with just a pencil, scissors, and a traced hand. No special tools or machines required.

Ready to Get Crafting?

This reindeer handprint craft is proof that some of the best holiday traditions are also the simplest ones. With a little cardstock, a few jingle bells, and one small hand, you’ll have a Christmas keepsake – or a whole herd of them – that your family will treasure for years to come.

Because the best holiday parties are the ones filled with a little glue, a little glitter, and a lot of laughter.

This Paper Plate Christmas Tree is the kind of project that turns into a full-blown tradition. It’s simple enough for toddlers to help with, open-ended enough to keep older kids engaged, and the finished trees are honestly too cute to hide away in a drawer.

Whether you’re planning a rainy-day activity, a classroom party, or a whole Christmas craft afternoon with the cousins, this is a project you can pull together with almost zero prep and supplies you probably already own.

Below, you’ll find the classic method, plus a big batch of fresh ways to decorate your trees so they look more festive, more giftable, and way more Instagram-worthy than the basic version most people are still making.

Why This Craft Is a Holiday Favorite

Most kids’ Christmas crafts are flat: cards, paintings, printables you color in and stick on the fridge. This one is different. It’s 3D, it stands up on its own, and kids get a real sense of accomplishment watching a flat plate turn into a little tree they can decorate however they like.

It’s also incredibly forgiving. There’s no “wrong” way to decorate these trees, which means less stress for you and more creative freedom for your kids. That combination is exactly why this craft has stuck around as a family favorite for years.

What You’ll Need

Paper plates (1 per tree – grab a few extra in case of mistakes)

Clear tape

Green paint (or try a few different shades for variety)

Glue: school glue, PVA glue, or tacky glue all work well

Decorations: mini pom poms, buttons, sequins, beads, mini bells, glitter, ribbon scraps, or a mini star for the top

Scissors

A paintbrush

Don’t have pom poms on hand? No problem. Stickers, buttons, beads, gems, sequins, or even torn bits of colored paper all work beautifully. Use whatever you already have in your craft stash – this project is about creativity, not a shopping list.

How to Make a Paper Plate Christmas Tree

Step 1: Cut your cone shape.

Find the center point of your paper plate and cut out a wedge, roughly a quarter of the plate. This missing wedge is what lets the plate curl into a cone.

Step 2: Roll it into a cone.

Bring the two cut edges together, overlapping them slightly, until you have a cone shape that stands up on its own. Secure it with tape.

Step 3: Keep the tape on the inside.

Since you’ll be painting the outside of the cone, try to keep your tape hidden on the inside. Rolling small loops of tape works great for holding the overlapping flap in place. If you do need a bit of tape on the outside, wait until the paint has dried before adding it so it sticks properly and stays hidden once decorated.

Step 4: Paint your tree green.

You can paint the plate flat before rolling it, but there’s something extra fun about painting the cone once it’s already standing up. Kids especially love painting a 3D shape instead of a flat piece of paper. Let the paint dry completely before moving on.

Step 5: Decorate.

Once the paint is fully dry, it’s time for the fun part: gluing on pom poms, buttons, sequins, or whatever decorations you’ve chosen. Let your kids place these however they like. There’s no “correct” pattern here, and the trees look great no matter how the decorations land.

Step 6: Let it dry, then display.

Give the glue time to fully set before moving your tree. Once it’s dry, find a fun spot to show it off. A mini mantel display, a windowsill, or the center of your holiday table are all great options.

Pro Tip

If your regular school glue isn’t holding heavier decorations like buttons or beads, switch to tacky glue or a low-heat glue gun for a stronger hold. Tacky glue is thicker and grips faster, which makes it a great choice for anything with weight to it.

Make It More Festive: Fresh Decorating Ideas

The classic pom pom tree is a favorite for a reason, but there are so many ways to dress these trees up and make them feel even more special this year. Try mixing and matching a few of these ideas to give your trees a whole new look.

The Snowy Tree

After the green paint dries, dab on a light layer of white paint using a dry brush or a piece of crumpled paper towel. This creates a soft, snow-dusted effect along the edges of the tree, almost like it’s been caught in a light snowfall.

The Glitter Tree

While the green paint is still wet, sprinkle on fine glitter for a tree that catches the light beautifully. This version looks especially magical sitting near candles or string lights.

The Ribbon-Wrapped Tree

Instead of paint, wrap thin ribbon around the cone in a spiral pattern, securing it with a dot of glue as you go. Add pom poms or mini bells on top for a tree that looks more like a wrapped gift than a craft project.

The Button and Bead Tree

Swap pom poms for a mix of buttons, beads, and sequins in gold, silver, red, and green. This version has a slightly more elegant, grown-up look, which makes it a great option if you want a tree that fits a more polished holiday display.

The Woodland Tree

Skip the bright colors and go natural. Glue on small twigs, dried berries, or bits of moss for a rustic, woodland-inspired tree that pairs beautifully with a farmhouse or cabin-style holiday theme.

The Ornament Tree

Use a hole punch to add tiny paper circles in different colors, then glue them on like miniature ornaments. Top it off with a small paper star or a gold pom pom for the finishing touch.

The Yarn-Wrapped Tree

Wrap green yarn around the cone from base to tip instead of painting it. This gives the tree a cozy, textured look and adds a totally different feel from the smooth painted version.

More Ways to Use This Craft

Once you’ve mastered the basic tree, there are plenty of ways to put it to use beyond a simple display piece.

Make a mini forest. Create trees in three or four different sizes using small, medium, and large paper plates. Cluster them together on a table or mantel for a sweet little Christmas forest scene.

Turn them into place cards. Write a guest’s name on a small tag and tuck it into the base of each tree for an easy, homemade centerpiece at your holiday dinner table.

Use them as gift toppers. A mini tree glued to the top of a wrapped present adds a handmade touch that store-bought bows just can’t match.

Set up a decorating station. If you’re hosting a holiday playdate or a classroom party, paint and cut the cones ahead of time, then set out bowls of pom poms, buttons, and glue so each child can decorate their own tree. It’s a simple, low-mess activity that keeps kids entertained and sends them home with something they made themselves.

Helpful Tips Before You Start

A few small adjustments can make this project go even more smoothly, especially if you’re making several trees at once or working with younger kids.

Cut all your plate wedges ahead of time if you’re working with toddlers or a larger group. This keeps scissors out of little hands while still letting them do the fun parts: rolling, painting, and decorating.

Let the paint dry fully before decorating. Gluing pom poms onto wet paint can smear the color and stop the glue from holding properly.

Work on a covered surface. Paint and glue can get messy fast, especially with younger crafters, so a plastic tablecloth or old newspaper under your workspace will save you cleanup time later.

If a cone won’t hold its shape, add a second piece of tape along the seam. Sturdier plates will also help the cone keep its form once it’s fully decorated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can toddlers do this craft?

Yes, with a little help. Have an adult handle the cutting and rolling, then let toddlers take over the painting and decorating, which are the most hands-on and enjoyable parts for little ones anyway.

How long does this craft take?

Plan on about 20 to 30 minutes of active crafting time, plus drying time for the paint and glue in between steps.

What size paper plate works best?

A standard 9-inch paper plate works great for a single tree. Smaller dessert plates make cute mini trees, which are perfect if you want to create a cluster or mini forest display.

How long will the finished trees last?

With regular paper plates, these trees will hold up well for the whole holiday season as a decoration. Just keep them away from damp areas, since paper plates aren’t moisture-resistant.

Wrap Up the Season With a Craft the Whole Family Will Love

This Paper Plate Christmas Tree craft proves that some of the best holiday memories come from the simplest projects. All it takes is a paper plate, a little paint, and whatever decorations you have on hand to create something your kids will be proud to display all season long.

However you decide to decorate yours, snowy, glittery, ribbon-wrapped, or piled high with pom poms, you’ll end up with a handmade tree that’s full of personality and made with a lot of love. Because the best holiday decorations are always the ones your kids made themselves.

This is one of those crafts that looks like it took a Pinterest-famous DIYer hours of skill to pull off, but it’s shockingly simple. You’re basically gluing pretty fabric to the back of a glass plate. That’s it. No painting skills required, no fancy tools, and no trip to a specialty craft store for expensive supplies.

We’re taking the classic version of this project and giving it a full holiday glow-up. You’ll get the same foolproof method, plus updated design ideas so your plates look current, festive, and totally gift-worthy this Christmas.

Why This Craft Is Such a Hit

A decoupage cookie plate solves a very real holiday problem: you want to bring cookies to a party, drop off a treat for a neighbor, or send your kid’s teacher home with something sweet, but you don’t want it to look like an afterthought.

This craft gives you a reusable, dishwasher-safe (top rack, hand wash recommended for longevity), genuinely beautiful serving piece for the cost of a dollar-store plate and a few dollars of fabric. Once it’s sealed, the design is protected under a glass surface, so it holds up wash after wash, season after season.

It’s also endlessly customizable. Change the fabric, and you’ve got a plate for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or a summer barbecue. Once you learn the technique, you’ll never look at a plain glass plate the same way again.

What You’ll Need

Clear glass plate (a plain dinner or dessert plate works great – dollar stores, Walmart, and Target all carry inexpensive options)

Mod Podge (the Gloss or Outdoor formula holds up best for plates that will be washed)

A holiday-print fabric fat quarter (18″ x 22″ is plenty for one plate) – look for a Christmas print with a scale that fits your plate size

Foam craft brush (a small one for detail work near the edges is a nice bonus)

Sharp fabric scissors

Rubbing alcohol and a paper towel or lint-free cloth

A soft towel to protect your work surface

Painter’s tape (optional, to hold fabric in place while you work)

How to Make Your Decoupage Christmas Cookie Plate

Step 1: Clean Your Plate

Wipe the entire plate down with rubbing alcohol, front and back. This strips away fingerprints, dust, and any invisible oils that would keep the Mod Podge from sticking properly. Skipping this step is the number one reason decoupage projects peel later, so don’t rush it.

Let the plate air dry completely before moving on.

Step 2: Cut Your Fabric

Turn the plate face down on your towel. Lay your fabric right side down and place the plate on top so you can see how the print will land once it’s flipped. This is your moment to get picky about placement.

Center the prettiest part of the print – a cluster of trees, a truck, a wreath, whatever your fabric’s hero image is – right in the middle of the plate. Cut a circle of fabric about 1 to 2 inches larger than the plate all the way around. You want extra fabric to work with, not a tight fit.

Step 3: Glue the Fabric Down

Working in small sections, brush a generous, even layer of Mod Podge onto the back of the plate. Press your fabric down, right side facing the glue, and smooth it out from the center toward the edges using your fingers or the foam brush. This pushes out air bubbles instead of trapping them under the fabric.

Take your time here. Small bubbles or wrinkles are much easier to smooth out now than after everything dries.

Step 4: Seal and Trim

Once the fabric is fully adhered, brush another thin, even coat of Mod Podge directly over the back of the fabric. Really work it into the weave of the fabric, especially near the edges, so nothing is left dry or loose.

Let this dry for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until it’s no longer tacky to the touch. Then trim away the excess fabric around the plate’s edge with sharp scissors, cutting as close to the rim as you comfortably can.

Step 5: Add a Finishing Seal Coat

Brush one more full coat of Mod Podge over the entire back of the plate, covering the fabric completely edge to edge. This final layer is what gives your plate that smooth, protected finish and helps it hold up to gentle hand washing later.

Let it dry fully, ideally overnight, before handling the plate again.

Pro Tip: Skip the Streaks

Mod Podge dries clear, but it goes on cloudy and white, which can make it hard to tell where you’ve already covered. Brush in one consistent direction (top to bottom, then side to side) for each coat, and hold the plate up to the light between coats to spot any missed patches before they dry.

Make It More Christmas: Fresh Design Ideas That Feel Current

The original version of this craft is lovely, but a plain fabric-and-glue plate can look a little flat sitting next to your other holiday decor. Here’s how to take it from “nice craft” to “where did you buy that?”

Layer in Metallic Accents

After your final Mod Podge coat has dried, use a fine-tip gold or silver paint pen to trace small details on the front of the plate, like the outline of a tree branch or a few dots along the rim. Because you’re drawing on the front (the side people eat off, not the glued side), keep any decorative marks along the outer edge only, away from where food actually sits, and let the paint fully cure before use.

Add a Ribbon-Wrapped Rim

Hot glue a slim strip of velvet or plaid ribbon around the outer edge of the plate, right along the rim where the glass meets the table. This hides any slightly uneven fabric trimming and instantly makes the whole piece look more polished and boutique-made. Choose a ribbon color that pulls from your fabric print, like a deep red, forest green, or buffalo plaid.

Mix Two Complementary Prints

Instead of one fabric, cut a smaller circle from a second coordinating print (think: a solid plaid paired with a busy truck-and-tree scene) and layer it in the center before adding your main fabric ring around it. This “double decoupage” look adds depth and makes each plate feel more custom.

Try a Frosted or Painted Border

Before you start decoupaging, use painter’s tape to mask off a 1-inch band around the very outer edge of the plate’s back. Apply a coat of white or metallic glass paint to that band and let it dry before removing the tape. Then decoupage your fabric into the center circle. The result looks like a plate with a professionally painted rim.

Personalize It

Use a paint pen to write a name, year, or short holiday message (“Merry Christmas 2026” or a family name) along the back edge of the plate before your final seal coat. This turns a general craft plate into a keepsake gift, which is perfect for grandparents, teachers, or a hostess gift you want to feel extra thoughtful.

How to Style and Use Your Finished Plate

Once your plate is fully cured (give it a full 24 to 48 hours before washing or heavy use), it’s ready for its big moment. Here are the best ways to put it to work this holiday season.

Cookie exchange centerpiece: Stack an assortment of cookies in the middle and let the border pattern peek out around the edges. The busier the fabric print, the more it frames the cookies like a picture.

Neighbor and teacher gifts: Wrap a few cookies in cellophane, tie it off with a coordinating ribbon, and set the whole bundle on the plate. The plate itself becomes part of the gift, not just the delivery method.

Holiday party dessert table: Use a few of these plates at different heights (stack one on a cake stand, lay another flat) to add color and pattern to your dessert spread without buying a single piece of holiday tableware.

Hostess gift: Fill it with cookies, wrap the whole thing in clear cellophane and a bow, and you’ve got a gift that looks like it came from a boutique bakery, not your kitchen table.

Common Questions About This Craft

Is this plate safe to eat off of?

Yes, with a few precautions. Keep all of your decoupage work on the back (underside) of the plate, since it’s a clear glass plate, the design shows through from the top while food sits on the untouched front surface. Never apply Mod Podge or fabric directly to the side that touches food.

Can I put it in the dishwasher?

Hand washing is the safest bet for keeping the design intact long-term. A gentle wipe with a soft, damp cloth is usually all it needs, since food never touches the decorated side.

How long does the design last?

With a proper cleaning step, even coats of Mod Podge, and gentle hand washing, these plates can last for years. Many crafters report using the same plates every holiday season for five or more years without any peeling.

What if my fabric print is too small or too large for my plate?

Either works. For a smaller print, center a favorite motif and let the pattern repeat naturally around it. For a larger print or single image, cut generously and don’t worry about capturing the whole design; a partial, well-centered image often looks more intentional than trying to fit everything in.

Can I make matching plates for a whole set?

Absolutely, and it’s the easiest way to make an ordinary dessert table look pulled together. Buy your fabric fat quarter and a stack of matching glass plates in one trip, then batch out steps 1 through 5 across all of them at once. Doing several plates in one sitting is actually faster per plate than making them one at a time, since you’re not stopping to clean up supplies between each one.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind Before You Start

Give yourself more time than you think you need. Between drying time for each coat and the overnight cure at the end, this isn’t a same-day, same-hour project if you want it to hold up well. Plan to start it a few days before you need the finished plate, especially if it’s headed to a party or being gifted.

Buy a little extra fabric. Fat quarters are inexpensive, and having extra on hand means you can redo a section if a bubble or wrinkle sets in somewhere you don’t love, without a second trip to the store.

Work in a warm, dry space. Mod Podge dries faster and clearer in a warm room with good airflow. A humid bathroom or a cold garage will slow your drying time way down and can leave the finish a little cloudier than you want.

Ready to Get Started

This is exactly the kind of project that photographs beautifully, costs almost nothing to make, and turns a plain plate into something people ask about at every single party. Grab a plate, pick out a fabric that makes you smile, and give yourself an evening to put this together. Once you see the finished result sitting on your dessert table, you’ll understand exactly why this craft has stuck around as a holiday favorite for years, and why it’s worth giving it a fresh update this Christmas.

We rounded up some of the most-loved viral Christmas DIYs and gave each one a fresh, more polished spin so your home looks like it belongs in a holiday catalog. We also added a few brand-new ideas to the mix, because once you start DIY-ing your decor, it’s honestly hard to stop.

Grab your hot glue gun, put on a Christmas playlist, and let’s get crafting. Your future guests (and your Instagram feed) are going to thank you.

1. Glass Deer Vignette with Floating Candles

This one is proof that “elegant” and “easy” can absolutely coexist. Picture two shimmering glass jars, each one etched with a delicate reindeer silhouette, topped with a glowing floating candle and finished with a plush velvet bow. It’s the kind of centerpiece guests will assume you bought from a boutique.

The original TikTok version used clear beads glued around the rim. We’re upgrading it with a gold mercury-glass finish for extra shine, plus a trick to keep your candles burning longer without a mess.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 clear glass cylinder jars or vases (any home store will have these)
• Etched or frosted deer decal, or a deer-etched glass candle holder
• Gold beaded trim or ribbon
• Velvet bows in red or your color scheme
• Hot glue gun
• Floating candles
• Distilled water (it stays clearer than tap water)

How to Make It:

1. If your jars don’t already have a deer design, apply a deer decal or etching stencil to the front of each jar.

2. Measure your gold beaded trim around the top and bottom edge of each jar, then trim to size.

3. Hot glue the beaded trim around the rim first, then the base, holding each piece for a few seconds until it sets.

4. Tie a velvet bow around the neck of the jar (or glue it in place) so it sits just above the deer design.

5. Fill each jar about two-thirds full with distilled water.

6. Drop in a floating candle right before your guests arrive and light it up.

Pro Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil like cinnamon or pine to the water for a subtle holiday scent that fills the room as the candle burns.

2. Mini Snow Village in a Jar

This is basically a snow globe, minus the shaking and the risk of your toddler dropping it. A tiny glowing house nestled in “snow,” peeking out from a glass apothecary jar. It’s cozy, it’s charming, and it looks incredible glowing on a mantel at night.

We’re leveling this one up by adding layered “snow drifts” and a warm LED light source that’s safer than a real flame and lasts all season long.

What You’ll Need:

• Large glass apothecary jar with a lid
• Epsom salt or fake snow (both create a realistic sparkly texture)
• Small light-up tin or ceramic house
• Mini bottle-brush trees
• Battery-operated tea light
• Small pinch of cotton batting (optional, for extra fluffy snowdrifts)

How to Make It:

1. Pour a layer of Epsom salt or fake snow about two inches deep into the bottom of your jar.

2. Shape the snow into a gentle slope, higher toward the back.

3. Turn on your battery tea light and tuck it inside the little house.

4. Nestle the lit house into the snow, angling it slightly so the glow is visible from the front.

5. Add a bottle-brush tree or two beside the house.

6. Use small tufts of cotton batting to build up drifts around the base for extra texture, then place the lid back on.

Fun Variation: Make a whole “street” by using a wide rectangular jar or tray and lining up three or four tiny houses side by side.

3. Upside-Down Wine Glass Candle Holders

This is the DIY that makes people say, “Wait, how did you DO that?” You flip a wine glass upside down, stuff it with ornaments, and turn it into a glowing pedestal candle holder. It photographs beautifully and works as a centerpiece, a mantel accent, or even a table setting for a holiday dinner party.

We’re updating the color palette to a rich red-and-gold combo with faux poinsettias for a more luxe, editorial look.

What You’ll Need:

• Stemmed wine glasses (thrift stores are a great source for cheap ones)
• Mini and medium-sized ornaments in your color scheme
• Candle bases or wide pillar candle holders that fit the glass base
• Hot glue gun
• Faux poinsettias or small floral picks
• Pillar candles

How to Make It:

1. Fill each wine glass about three-quarters full with a mix of ornaments, starting with larger ones and filling gaps with smaller ones.

2. Apply hot glue to the candle base and press it firmly onto the bottom (stem side) of the glass. Let it dry fully before moving on.

3. Once dry, carefully flip the entire piece upside down so the candle base now sits on top.

4. Glue faux poinsettias or floral picks around the base of the glass to hide the seam and add color.

5. Set your candle on top and light it whenever you want instant holiday ambiance.

Pro Tip: Group three of these in different heights down the center of your dinner table for a showstopping tablescape.

4. Budget-Friendly Ornament Wreath

This wreath went viral for a reason: it looks expensive, but it costs next to nothing. Dozens of ornaments clustered together on a simple wood or foam base create a wreath with serious texture and sparkle, and you can customize the colors to match absolutely any decor style.

We’re adding a tip to mix finishes (matte, glitter, and metallic) so it reads as high-end instead of flat.

What You’ll Need:

• Plain wood, foam, or wire wreath base
• A large mix of ornaments in varying sizes, all in your chosen color palette
• Hot glue gun (a low-temp one is safer for ornaments)
• Ribbon for hanging

How to Make It:

1. Sort your ornaments by size before you start so you can grab them quickly as you go.

2. Starting with your largest ornaments, wedge them into gaps around the base and hot glue each one in place.

3. Fill in the remaining gaps with medium-sized ornaments, working to eliminate visible base underneath.

4. Use your smallest ornaments last to fill any tiny leftover gaps.

5. Attach a ribbon loop to the back for hanging, and let the glue fully cure for a few hours before hanging it up.

Pro Tip: Mix in a few unexpected textures, like small pinecones or faux berries, to make the wreath look more custom and less “one big bag of ornaments.”

5. Glitter-Dipped Ornaments

These ornaments have that soft, sparkly, “snowed-on” look that’s nearly impossible to find in stores, and they make a gorgeous handmade addition to your tree or a gift topper. The process is oddly satisfying, too, which makes this a great one to do with friends over a glass of wine.

We’re updating the technique with a two-tone dip for extra dimension.

What You’ll Need:

• Clear fillable plastic ornaments
• Polycrylic or Mod Podge
• Fine glitter in two coordinating colors (like silver and iridescent white)
• Small paper funnel
• Small disposable cup for pouring

How to Make It:

1. Pour a small amount of polycrylic into your disposable cup, then pour it into the ornament.

2. Swirl and tilt the ornament so the polycrylic coats the entire inside surface evenly.

3. Use your funnel to pour out any excess. You only need a thin, even layer left behind.

4. Pour your first glitter color in through the funnel, tilting the ornament to coat about two-thirds of the interior.

5. Add your second glitter color to coat the remaining area, creating a soft ombre effect where the colors overlap.

6. Set the ornament upside down in an egg carton or ornament stand to dry fully, usually overnight.

Pro Tip: Do a whole batch in one sitting. The setup and cleanup take the most time, so you might as well make a dozen while you’re at it.

6. Giant Oversized Ornaments

Nothing makes a porch or entryway look more festive than a cluster of giant ornaments that are way bigger than physically possible. This is one of those decorations that stops neighbors mid-walk, and it costs almost nothing to make.

We’re adding a design upgrade so these look like polished, glossy ornaments instead of painted balloons.

What You’ll Need:

• Medium and large exercise/yoga balls
• Metallic spray paint in red, gold, or silver
• Small and medium plastic cups (for the “cap” on top)
• Wide ribbon
• Craft glue or hot glue
• Adhesive vinyl or cardstock for a decorative buckle or pattern (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Wipe down each exercise ball to remove any dust, then apply two to three light coats of metallic spray paint, letting each coat dry fully. Do this outdoors or in a well-ventilated space.

2. Cut a few small slits around the base of each plastic cup so ribbon can be threaded through.

3. Feed your ribbon through the slits, then hot glue the cup securely to the top of the ball to create the ornament “cap.”

4. Tie a loop of ribbon at the top of the cup for hanging, and add a bow at the base if desired.

5. If you want a Santa-belt or striped design, cut shapes from adhesive vinyl and apply them directly to the dry, painted surface.

Pro Tip: Weigh down or stake smaller balls if you’re displaying them outside so wind doesn’t send your giant ornaments rolling down the street.

7. “Santa Cam” Jar

This one is less about decor and more about holiday mischief management. A glittery jar with a fake camera lens glued to the front, labeled “Santa Cam,” is basically a parent’s secret weapon for the entire month of December. Kids love it, parents love it even more.

We’re keeping this one mostly as-is because honestly, it’s already perfect. Just a small styling upgrade to make it look more like a real display piece.

What You’ll Need:

• Round glass jar with a lid
• Mod Podge or a similar sealant
• Red glitter
• Fake camera lens (craft stores or online marketplaces carry these)
• Small Santa hat (the mini ornament-sized kind)
• Stick-on letters or a printed vinyl decal reading “Santa Cam”

How to Make It:

1. Coat the inside of the jar with a layer of Mod Podge or sealant.

2. Pour in red glitter and rotate the jar until the interior is fully coated. Let it dry completely.

3. Once dry, replace the lid.

4. Cut a small hole in the front of the jar (or lid, depending on your jar shape) and glue the fake camera lens into place.

5. Apply your “Santa Cam” lettering just below or around the lens.

6. Glue the mini Santa hat to the top of the jar as a finishing touch.

Pro Tip: Set it on a shelf facing the living room or Christmas tree so the kids actually notice it. Half the magic is knowing it’s watching.

8. Faux Snow Branch Centerpiece

This is a newer trend that’s been all over TikTok this year, and it’s the easiest one on this entire list. A cluster of frosted branches in a tall vase, dusted with faux snow and strung with warm fairy lights, creates a centerpiece that looks like it belongs in a winter lodge.

What You’ll Need:

• Tall clear or ceramic vase
• Bare branches (real or faux birch/willow branches work great)
• Spray-on faux snow
• Battery-operated warm white fairy lights
• A few oversized ornaments or pinecones for the vase base

How to Make It:

1. Lightly spray your branches with faux snow, working in thin coats so it doesn’t clump.

2. Let the branches dry completely, ideally outside or over a drop cloth.

3. Place a few large ornaments or pinecones in the bottom of your vase to weigh it down and add color at the base.

4. Arrange your frosted branches in the vase, fanning them out for height and width.

5. Wrap fairy lights loosely around the branches, tucking the battery pack behind the vase.

Pro Tip: Use branches that are taller than your vase by at least two feet. Height is what makes this centerpiece feel dramatic instead of small.

9. Hot Cocoa Bar Display

This is more of a whole “station” than a single decoration, and it’s one of the most requested party setups every holiday season. A hot cocoa bar turns a simple drink into an experience, and it doubles as decor the second it’s set up.

What You’ll Need:

• A tiered tray or wood serving board
• Glass jars or canisters for cocoa mix, marshmallows, and toppings
• Small chalkboard or printed labels
• Mugs displayed upright or hung on a small stand
• String lights or garland to frame the display

How to Make It:

1. Choose your base, whether that’s a bar cart, console table, or tiered tray.

2. Fill your glass jars with cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, and chocolate chips.

3. Label each jar clearly so guests know exactly what’s inside.

4. Arrange mugs nearby, either stacked or hung on hooks for easy grabbing.

5. Frame the whole setup with garland or string lights to tie it into your existing decor.

Pro Tip: Add one “adults only” jar with mini bottles of peppermint schnapps or Baileys off to the side for a grown-up twist on the classic setup.

10. DIY Marquee Light Sign

These oversized light-up letters have been everywhere on TikTok, and they’re the kind of statement piece that instantly makes a space feel party-ready. Spell out “JOY,” “NOEL,” or your family’s last name for a personalized touch that works as decor year after year.

What You’ll Need:

• Cardboard letter cutouts or a pre-made marquee letter kit
• String lights (battery-operated or plug-in, sized to your letters)
• Hot glue gun or a hole punch, depending on your letter material
• Craft knife (if cutting your own letters)

How to Make It:

1. If making your own letters, sketch large block letters on thick cardboard and cut them out carefully with a craft knife.

2. Mark evenly spaced dots along the outline of each letter where your lights will sit.

3. Poke small holes at each mark, just big enough to hold a single light bulb in place.

4. Insert your string lights one bulb at a time from front to back, working around the entire letter.

5. Secure the light cord to the back of the letter with tape or glue so it stays put.

Pro Tip: Lean your letters against a wall or mantel rather than trying to make them freestanding. It’s a much sturdier look and easier to set up.

11. Ornament Topiary Trees

These mini “trees” made entirely of stacked ornaments are a newer spin on the classic ornament wreath, and they make a gorgeous pair flanking your front door or fireplace.

What You’ll Need:

• A cone-shaped foam base (available at any craft store)
• A large mix of small ornaments in your color scheme
• Hot glue gun
• A decorative pot or vase to display the finished tree
• A star or bow topper

How to Make It:

1. Starting at the base of the cone, glue your largest ornaments in a ring around the bottom.

2. Work upward in rings, using progressively smaller ornaments as you near the top.

3. Fill in any visible gaps with the smallest ornaments you have.

4. Glue a star or bow topper to the very top of the cone.

5. Set the finished tree into a decorative pot to complete the look.

Pro Tip: Make one in each size, small, medium, and large, and cluster them together for a “topiary family” display that looks incredibly high-end.

Ready to Get Crafting?

Every one of these ideas started as a viral TikTok trend, and every one of them is genuinely easy enough to pull off even if you’ve never touched a glue gun in your life. Pick two or three that fit your space and your budget, and build your holiday decor around them.

Because the best Christmas gatherings aren’t the ones with the most expensive decorations. They’re the ones filled with a little bit of glitter, a little bit of glow, and a whole lot of holiday spirit.

This year, skip the plain plate of cookies wrapped in plastic wrap. Instead, turn an empty Pringles can into a ridiculously cute, totally giftable Christmas cookie container.

It sounds almost too simple to be true. But that’s exactly why it works so well. You get a sturdy, stackable, perfectly-sized cookie tube for the cost of a few craft supplies you probably already have on hand.

Best part? Once you learn the basic technique, you can dress it up in dozens of different styles. Plaid and rustic. Fuzzy Santa face. Candy cane stripes. Sparkly and elegant. Farmhouse chic. The can is just your blank canvas.

Let’s walk through exactly how to make these, plus five gorgeous decoration styles to try this season.

Why a Pringles Can Makes the Perfect Cookie Container

Before we get into the how-to, let’s talk about why this idea is such a smart one for holiday gifting.

First, the size is just right. A Pringles can holds a satisfying stack of round or square cookies without them getting crushed on the way to your neighbor’s door.

Second, it already has a lid. No searching for the perfect box, no wrestling with tissue paper that won’t stay put. Pop the plastic lid back on and you’re done.

Third, and maybe most importantly, it’s a total surprise. Nobody expects cookies to come out of a chip can. That little twist of “wait, what?” is what makes people smile and remember your gift over everyone else’s.

And finally, it’s budget-friendly. You’re basically upcycling trash into a keepsake gift container. Your wallet and the planet both win.

What You’ll Need

Empty Pringles can (any size – the tall original size holds the most cookies)

Scrapbook paper, patterned cardstock, or wrapping paper

Craft glue, double-sided tape, or a hot glue gun

Scissors or a paper trimmer

Ribbon, twine, or pom-pom trim

Embellishments (felt shapes, mini ornaments, gift tags, stickers – whatever fits your theme)

Your favorite Christmas cookies

That’s really it. Everything on this list is easy to find at a craft store, a dollar store, or already sitting in a drawer in your house.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Christmas Cookie Container

Ready to get started? This whole project takes about 15 minutes per can once you get the hang of it. Perfect for an evening in front of a Christmas movie.

Step 1: Empty and Clean Your Can

Finish off the chips (the fun part, obviously) and wipe out the inside of the can with a dry paper towel or cloth. You want it completely free of crumbs and grease before you start decorating.

Step 2: Measure and Cut Your Paper

Wrap your scrapbook paper or cardstock around the can to measure how much you’ll need. Add about half an inch of overlap so your seam is easy to hide.

Cut the paper to match the height of the can, leaving the lid area open so the cover still snaps on and off smoothly.

Step 3: Wrap and Secure

Apply glue or double-sided tape along the edge of the can, then roll the paper around it, smoothing out any bubbles as you go.

Press the seam down firmly and let it set for a minute or two. If you’re using a heavier cardstock, a hot glue gun will give you a stronger hold.

Step 4: Add Your Decorative Trim

This is where the magic happens. Wrap ribbon, twine, or pom-pom trim around the top and bottom edges of the can to cover the raw paper edges and give it a polished, finished look.

Secure the trim with a small dot of hot glue every few inches so it stays put as the can gets handled and gifted.

Step 5: Layer On the Embellishments

Now have fun with it. Add a felt Christmas tree, a fuzzy Santa face, a knit pom-pom, or a little wooden gift tag with the recipient’s name.

This is the step that takes your container from “nice” to “wow, did you buy this?”

Step 6: Fill, Seal, and Deliver

Stack your cookies inside, snap the lid on, and you’re ready to gift. If your cookies are delicate, tuck a small piece of parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.

5 Christmas Cookie Container Styles to Try This Year

Here’s where this classic idea gets a serious holiday glow-up. These five looks are all trending right now, and every single one uses the exact same basic technique above.

1. Cozy Plaid & Felt Tree

Wrap your can in red and white buffalo plaid or classic tartan paper for an instant cozy-cabin feel.

Top it with a border of red pom-pom trim, then tie a rustic olive-green twine bow right at the front.

Add a small felt Christmas tree cutout dotted with pom-pom “ornaments” and a yellow felt star. Finish with a kraft paper gift tag that says something sweet like “Merry & Bright.”

Best for: Neighbors, coworkers, and anyone who loves a farmhouse Christmas look.

2. Fuzzy Santa Face

Wrap your can in a green polka-dot or snowflake-print paper for a playful base.

Glue on a soft, fuzzy felt Santa face right in the center – white beard, rosy cheeks, and a little knit-style red hat. You can find pre-made felt Santa face embellishments at most craft stores, or cut your own from felt sheets.

Wrap a strip of jute twine around the top with a couple of red wooden beads threaded on for extra texture, and finish with a round tag that reads “Merry Christmas.”

Best for: Kids’ teacher gifts, classroom exchanges, and anyone who loves a whimsical touch.

3. Candy Cane Stripe & Snowflake

Wrap your can in a bold red and white diagonal candy-stripe paper for a peppermint-shop vibe.

Add a white knit or felt snowflake as the centerpiece, held on with a bright red button in the middle.

Top it off with a thick red pom-pom border and an olive twine bow, plus a tag that says “Warm Wishes.”

Best for: A whole batch to line up on a table – the stripes look incredible grouped together.

4. Sparkly & Elegant

Swap the rustic textures for glitter cardstock or metallic gold and white paper.

Use a satin ribbon instead of twine, and tie it in a crisp, polished bow. Add a single sprig of faux holly or a small glittered ornament as your focal point.

Best for: Hostess gifts, holiday parties, or anyone on your list who loves a glam aesthetic.

5. Farmhouse Kraft & Greenery

Wrap your can in plain kraft paper for a natural, neutral base.

Tie on a strip of burlap ribbon, then tuck in a small sprig of real or faux pine and a few red berries under the bow.

Finish with a simple stamped or handwritten tag for a homemade, straight-from-the-farmhouse feel.

Best for: A minimalist, natural look that pairs beautifully with any cookie inside.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Use spray adhesive instead of glue stick if you want a perfectly smooth wrap with zero wrinkles or bubbles.

Measure twice, cut once. It’s tempting to eyeball your paper, but a slightly-too-short piece will leave an awkward gap at the seam.

Keep your embellishments lightweight. Heavy add-ons like large ornaments can make the can top-heavy or hard to stack.

Make a small batch of “test” cans first if you’re planning to do a dozen or more. It’ll help you figure out your fastest assembly process before you commit to a full production line.

Set up an assembly line if you’re making several. Cut all your paper pieces first, then wrap them all, then add trim, then embellish. It’s much faster than finishing one can completely before starting the next.

What Cookies Should You Put Inside?

Almost any cookie works beautifully in these containers, but round or square cookies stack the most neatly.

Classic sugar cookies, shortbread, chocolate chip, gingerbread rounds, and thumbprint cookies are all great choices. Avoid anything too delicate or with wet frosting that might smear against the sides of the can.

If you’re gifting to several people, consider making two or three different cookie varieties and mixing them inside each can for a little variety pack effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cookies fit in a Pringles can?

A standard tall Pringles can typically holds 12 to 16 cookies, depending on their size and thickness.

Can I reuse cans from other snack brands?

Absolutely. Any cylindrical snack can with a resealable plastic lid will work the same way.

How far in advance can I make these?

You can decorate your cans weeks ahead of time and store them empty until you’re ready to fill them with fresh cookies right before gifting.

Will the paper come loose over time?

Not if you use a strong adhesive like hot glue or double-sided tape and press the seams firmly. These hold up well even with multiple hands passing them around.

What if I don’t have scrapbook paper?

Wrapping paper, old holiday cards, kraft paper, or even fabric scraps all work as a substitute. Get creative with what you already have.

Make a Batch and Spread the Cheer

Once you make your first one, you’ll want to make a dozen more. They really are that fun and that fast.

Line up a few cans, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and turn it into a cozy crafting night. Before you know it, you’ll have a whole collection of adorable, ready-to-gift cookie containers for neighbors, teachers, coworkers, and friends.

Because the best Christmas gifts are the ones that make people smile before they even open them.

Whether you’re planning a cozy afternoon at home, a classroom party, or a full-blown Christmas craft station for a family gathering, these 19 projects are foolproof, budget-friendly, and genuinely fun to make.

Every single one uses supplies you probably already have on hand: paper plates, popsicle sticks, cardboard tubes, and a healthy stash of pom-poms.

We’ve also given each classic a fresh, more festive upgrade. Because “cute” is great, but “cute and a little bit magical” is even better.

Ready to get your hands glittery? Let’s dive in.

1. Paper Plate Santa

This one is the ultimate gateway craft. It’s simple enough for toddlers, satisfying enough for big kids, and it always turns out adorable, no matter how “creative” the painting gets.

The classic version uses paint and cotton balls. Our upgrade adds texture and shine so Santa looks extra plush on the mantel or the tree.

Best for: Toddlers through elementary age

Craft Time: 30-40 minutes (plus drying time)

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 1 paper plate per Santa
• Red, black, white, and orange paint
• PVA glue
• Cotton balls (regular and a bag of “fluffed” cotton wool if you have it)
• 1 white or red pom-pom
• A small handful of chunky glitter (optional, for the hat)

How to Make It:

1. Mix white paint with a touch of orange or pink to create a skin tone. Paint the bottom two-thirds of the paper plate with it.

2. Paint the top third a bold red, curving the line so it looks like the edge of a Santa hat.

3. While the paint is still slightly wet, sprinkle a pinch of chunky glitter along the red section for a “snow-dusted hat” effect. Let everything dry completely.

4. Paint a big red circle for the nose.

5. Spread a generous line of PVA glue along the border between the red and skin-tone sections.

6. Pull apart and thin out your cotton balls, then press them along the glue line to form the fur trim of the hat.

7. Add another line of glue along the bottom edge of the plate and press on more cotton balls, fluffing them up as you go to build a full, textured beard.

8. Finish with two black dot eyes and glue the pom-pom to the tip of the hat.

Pro Tip: Don’t glue the cotton balls flat. Twist and layer them so the beard has real dimension. It’s the difference between “flat cotton ball” and “actually looks like a beard.”

2. Popsicle Stick Reindeer Ornament

Rudolph fans, this one’s for you. Three popsicle sticks, a pom-pom nose, and a few minutes of glue-drying time turn into an ornament that’ll end up on the tree year after year.

It’s also a great “set it and let it dry” craft if you’re juggling multiple kids or multiple projects at once.

Best for: Preschool through elementary age

Craft Time: 15 minutes active, plus drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 3 craft or popsicle sticks per reindeer
• Brown paint
• 1 red pom-pom per reindeer
• 2 googly eyes per reindeer
• Red ribbon (for hanging)
• Glue gun or strong craft glue

How to Make It:

1. Glue two sticks together in a V shape to form the antlers, then glue a third stick across the top to connect them, like a triangle with the point facing down.

2. Paint the whole thing brown and let it dry fully.

3. Glue the red pom-pom to the bottom point for Rudolph’s nose.

4. Glue a googly eye on each side, just above the nose.

5. Cut a short piece of ribbon, form it into a loop, and glue the ends to the back of the top stick so it can hang on the tree.

Fun Upgrade: Swap the plain ribbon for a length of jingle bell garland, or thread a couple of tiny bells onto the hanging loop. Every time this ornament gets bumped, it jingles, and kids will “accidentally” bump it constantly.

3. Handprint Christmas Tree Cards

Grandparents live for these. A handprint tree card is a keepsake disguised as a craft, and it doubles as your holiday greeting card, which means you’re knocking out two to-dos at once.

Best for: All ages (even babies, with help)

Craft Time: 20 minutes

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• Kraft paper or cardstock cards (folded)
• Green cardstock for the handprint tree
• Brown cardstock scraps for the trunk
• Yellow cardstock for a star
• Small gems, sequins, or metallic stickers
• Glue stick and tape

How to Make It:

1. Trace your child’s hand on green cardstock with fingers spread wide, then cut it out. This becomes the tree.

2. Glue the handprint onto the front of the folded card.

3. Cut a small rectangle from brown cardstock and glue it beneath the handprint as the trunk.

4. Cut a small star from yellow cardstock and glue it at the top, where the middle finger points.

5. Decorate the handprint “branches” with gems, sequins, or stickers as ornaments.

6. Write your holiday message inside once everything is dry.

Pro Tip: Use metallic gold or silver paint on the fingertips before tracing for an extra festive, shimmery edge to each “branch.”

4. Torn Paper Christmas Tree

No scissors required, which makes this one genuinely safe for even your youngest crafters. It’s also one of the most satisfying fine motor activities on this list.

We’ve updated the classic rainbow-strip version with an ombré color scheme that looks a lot more intentional and gift-worthy for display.

Best for: All ages, including toddlers

Craft Time: 25-30 minutes

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• Black cardstock (as the base)
• Construction paper in shades of green (light to dark), plus yellow for the star
• Glue sticks

How to Make It:

1. Have your kids rip the green paper into rough horizontal strips of varying lengths. Don’t worry about straight edges; torn is the whole point.

2. Starting near the bottom of the black cardstock, glue down your longest strip.

3. Layer the next strip slightly above and overlapping the first, using a slightly shorter piece.

4. Keep working your way up, using progressively shorter strips, and shifting from darker greens at the bottom to lighter greens near the top for that ombré effect.

5. Rip small pieces of yellow paper and cluster them at the very top to form a star.

6. Let it dry flat before displaying.

Fun Upgrade: Skip the black background and tape the finished tree to a sunny window instead, using strips of colorful tissue paper rather than construction paper. Sunlight turns it into a stained-glass tree.

5. Clothespin Snowman Family

These little guys come together fast and look great as a set. Line up four or five on a shelf, string them on a garland, or clip them to a stocking as a name tag.

Best for: Preschool through elementary age

Craft Time: 20 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• Wooden clothespins
• White paint
• Orange pom-poms (mini, for noses)
• Yarn in assorted colors (for scarves)
• Black fine-tip marker
• Craft glue

How to Make It:

1. Paint each clothespin white and let dry completely.

2. Glue a mini orange pom-pom near the top of the clothespin for the nose.

3. Use the black marker to add two dot eyes above the nose and a row of dot “buttons” down the front.

4. Wrap a short piece of yarn around the neck area and tie it into a small knot to form a scarf.

5. Let everything dry fully before displaying or using as a clip.

Pro Tip: Add a small strip of magnetic tape to the back of each snowman and turn them into a set of fridge magnets. It gives the craft a life well beyond December 26th.

6. Stained Glass Paper Plate Ornament

The original version of this craft uses tissue paper circles on a solid paper plate. Our upgrade turns it into a genuine light-catching ornament by swapping in a plate with the center cut out.

Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers

Craft Time: 20 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 1 paper plate per ornament, with the center circle cut out ahead of time (an adult’s job)
• Tissue paper squares in red, green, and blue
• Clear contact paper, cut into two matching circles
• Ribbon, for hanging

How to Make It:

1. Peel the backing off one circle of contact paper and lay it sticky-side up.

2. Press the paper plate ring on top so the sticky side shows through the center hole.

3. Have your child press tissue paper squares onto the sticky surface, overlapping colors and filling the whole circle.

4. Peel the backing off the second contact paper circle and press it over the top to seal everything in place.

5. Trim any extra contact paper around the edge of the plate.

6. Punch a small hole at the top, thread ribbon through, and tie a loop for hanging.

Fun Upgrade: Hang a few of these in a row across a window using fishing line. When the sun hits them, the whole window turns into a mini stained-glass display.

7. Paper Plate Santa Claus (Layered Version)

This is our second Santa on the list, but don’t skip it. It uses a completely different construction method, layering a plate face onto a paper triangle, which gives you a totally different look and a bit more of a 3D pop.

Best for: Preschool through elementary age

Craft Time: 35-40 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Intermediate (some cutting required)

What You’ll Need:

• 1 paper plate (top third trimmed off)
• Flesh-tone paint
• Red and white cardstock
• 2 large googly eyes
• 1 red pom-pom
• Glue stick and scissors

How to Make It:

1. Trim the top third off the paper plate and paint the remaining circle with flesh-tone paint. Set aside to dry.

2. Cut a large triangle from red cardstock.

3. From white cardstock, cut two 2-inch circles and one narrow strip. Cut one of the circles in half.

4. Glue the dried paper plate face onto the middle of the red triangle.

5. Glue the whole white circle at the top point of the triangle for the pom-pom base of the hat, and glue the white strip across the top of the plate as the hat brim.

6. Glue on the googly eyes, then glue the two half-circles below them as a mustache, topped with the red pom-pom as the nose.

Pro Tip: Fold small accordion pleats into a strip of white paper before gluing it on as the mustache. It adds instant texture without any extra materials.

8. Cardboard Tube Elf

These cheeky little elves are made almost entirely from recycling bin materials, which makes this one of the most budget-friendly crafts on the whole list.

Line up a few and you’ve got yourself Santa’s entire workshop crew.

Best for: Elementary age (some cutting into cardboard required)

Craft Time: 30-35 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Intermediate

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cardboard tube per elf
• Kid-friendly acrylic paint in green, red, or blue
• Colored paper (for the hat)
• Yellow felt or paper (for the collar)
• Pom-poms or jingle bells (for the hat tip)
• Fine-tip paintbrush or marker
• Stapler and PVA glue

How to Make It:

1. At the top of the tube, cut two slanted notches on opposite sides and fold the cardboard inward to form pointed elf ears.

2. Paint the tube in your chosen body color and let it dry.

3. Use a fine-tip brush or marker to add a face: eyes, a rosy nose, and a smile.

4. Cut a large circle of colored paper, cut it in half, and roll one half into a cone shape sized to fit over the tube.

5. Staple the cone closed, glue a pom-pom or jingle bell to the tip, and set it on top of the tube so the ears peek out.

6. Glue a strip of yellow felt around the neck as a collar to finish.

Fun Upgrade: Swap the pom-pom for a real jingle bell and use these as place card holders at your holiday dinner table. Write each guest’s name on a small paper flag and tuck it into the collar.

9. 3D Paper Plate Christmas Tree

This one takes a flat paper plate and turns it into a little cone-shaped tree that actually stands up on its own. It’s a great change of pace if your craft table has been all flat projects lately.

Best for: Preschool through elementary age

Craft Time: 30 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 1 paper plate per tree
• Green paint
• Clear tape
• Glue
• Multicolored pom-poms, or sequins, beads, or buttons

How to Make It:

1. Find the center of the paper plate and cut out one quarter-wedge, from the edge to the middle.

2. Roll the remaining plate into a cone shape and secure it with tape on the inside, so your paint job stays clean.

3. Paint the outside of the cone green and let it dry fully.

4. Glue on pom-poms, sequins, or beads as ornaments, spacing them out across the whole tree.

Pro Tip: Tuck a battery-operated mini LED light string inside the cone before you glue on the final decorations. A little glow makes these trees look genuinely magical on a mantel or windowsill after dark.

10. Popsicle Stick Snowflake Ornaments

This is an open-ended craft, meaning there’s no wrong way to make it. Set out the supplies, give minimal instructions, and let each snowflake turn out completely unique.

Best for: All ages

Craft Time: 30 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 3 popsicle sticks per snowflake (regular or jumbo)
• White and blue paint
• Craft glue and glitter glue
• Gems, sequins, snowflake-shaped confetti
• White feathers (optional)
• Ribbon, for hanging

How to Make It:

1. Paint the popsicle sticks white (or leave a few unpainted for variety) and let them dry.

2. Glue three sticks together at the center point so they cross like an asterisk, forming a six-pointed snowflake shape.

3. Let the kids decorate freely with gems, sequins, glitter glue, and feathers, arranging pieces before gluing to test out the look.

4. Once dry, tie a loop of ribbon to one point for hanging.

Fun Upgrade: Dip the finished, dried snowflake edges in a thin layer of glue and roll them in fine iridescent glitter for an “iced over” look that catches the light beautifully on the tree.

11. Paper Plate Elf Photo Prop

The original version of this craft is an adorable elf face. Our twist turns it into a wearable photo booth prop, which makes it perfect if you’re hosting a holiday party and want a built-in activity station.

Best for: Preschool through elementary age

Craft Time: 30 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Intermediate

What You’ll Need:

• 1 small paper plate per elf
• Green, yellow, and white cardstock
• Skin-tone paint
• Cotton balls
• Googly eyes and a red pom-pom (for the nose)
• A wooden craft stick or dowel
• Glue and scissors

How to Make It:

1. Paint the small paper plate with skin-tone paint and set aside to dry.

2. Cut a tall, narrow triangle from green cardstock and fold down the tip to look like a hat.

3. Cut pointy ear shapes and a zig-zag hairline strip from yellow cardstock.

4. Glue the ears to the sides of the paper plate and glue the plate onto the green triangle.

5. Glue the yellow zig-zag hairline across the top edge of the plate, then top it with a row of cotton balls for the hat trim.

6. Add googly eyes, the pom-pom nose, and draw on a smile.

7. Tape or glue a craft stick to the back so it can be held up like a mask.

Fun Upgrade: Make a whole batch of these along with the Reindeer Hat below, and set up a simple photo backdrop. Guests grab a prop, strike a pose, and you’ve got an instant party activity with zero setup cost.

12. Gingerbread Man Decorating Craft

Skip the store-bought template. Tracing and cutting the gingerbread shape by hand is half the fun, and it means every gingerbread kid turns out just a little different.

Best for: All ages (younger kids may need help with cutting)

Craft Time: 30-40 minutes

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• Brown cardstock or heavy paper
• A gingerbread cookie cutter, or a simple hand-drawn outline, to trace
• White paint or puffy fabric paint (for “icing”)
• Buttons, ric rac ribbon, sequins, and pom-poms (for decorating)
• Black marker and scissors
• Glue

How to Make It:

1. Trace a gingerbread cookie cutter (or draw a simple gingerbread outline freehand) onto brown cardstock and cut it out.

2. Use white paint or puffy fabric paint to add icing swirls along the arms, legs, and collar. Let it dry.

3. Decorate with buttons, ric rac, sequins, and pom-poms, gluing pieces on as “candy” details.

4. Use the black marker to add a face and any final details.

5. Mount the finished gingerbread man onto a piece of colored cardstock to display.

Pro Tip: Let each kid decorate two gingerbread shapes back-to-back with a loop of ribbon glued between them, and you’ve got a two-sided ornament ready for the tree instead of a flat wall piece.

13. Toilet Paper Roll Christmas Tree

This is a fantastic craft for using up your recycling stash, and the finished tree has a fun, tiered look that’s more dimensional than a flat cutout.

Best for: Preschool through elementary age

Craft Time: 25 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 4 cardboard tubes per tree (flattened and trimmed to graduating widths)
• Green and brown paint
• Dot markers or small paintbrushes (for decorations)
• Twine, for hanging
• Glue

How to Make It:

1. Flatten each cardboard tube and trim into graduated widths: one small, two medium, one large.

2. Paint three of the pieces green and one small piece brown, then let them dry.

3. Stack and glue the green pieces from largest to smallest to form a tree shape, with the brown piece glued at the bottom as the trunk.

4. Use dot markers or a small brush to add colorful “ornament” dots across each tier.

5. Glue a loop of twine to the back of the top tier for hanging.

Fun Upgrade: Wrap each tier in a different color of yarn instead of painting it. The texture makes the tree look more like a cozy knit ornament than a cardboard tube.

14. Handprint Reindeer Headband

Every kid loves a wearable craft, and this one comes with a built-in party favor: a headband they’ll want to keep on for the rest of the day.

Best for: All ages

Craft Time: 25 minutes

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• Brown construction paper (for the headband strip and handprint antlers)
• Googly eyes
• 1 red pom-pom (for the nose)
• Glue and tape or a stapler

How to Make It:

1. Cut a long strip of brown construction paper sized to wrap around your child’s head, and set it aside.

2. Trace two handprints on brown paper with fingers spread wide and cut them out. These become the antlers.

3. Glue the handprints to the inside top edge of the headband strip so they stick up like antlers.

4. Glue on googly eyes and the red pom-pom nose to the front center of the band.

5. Wrap the band around your child’s head to size, then tape or staple it closed.

Fun Upgrade: Write each child’s name along the band with a gold paint pen before assembling. It turns a craft into a keepsake photo prop for your holiday card or party photos.

15. Clothespin Doily Angel

These are delicate, pretty, and surprisingly quick to make. A paper doily “wings” out beautifully once it’s pinched into a clothespin, and no two ever look quite the same.

Best for: Elementary age

Craft Time: 20 minutes, plus drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 1 mini wooden clothespin per angel
• 1 mini paper doily per angel
• Silver or gold pipe cleaner (for the halo)
• Tan cardstock (for the face)
• White paint and fine glitter
• Glue

How to Make It:

1. Pinch the doily in the center on both sides and clip it into the clothespin so it fans out into wings.

2. Cut a small circle from tan cardstock, draw on a simple face, and glue it to the top of the clothespin.

3. Bend a pipe cleaner into a small circle, leaving a short tail, and tuck the tail into the top of the clothespin to form a halo.

4. Paint the clothespin white, then sprinkle it with glitter while the paint is still wet.

5. Let everything dry fully before hanging on the tree.

Pro Tip: Cut the doily wings slightly asymmetrically before clipping them in. It sounds counterintuitive, but a little imperfection makes each angel’s wings look more natural and “fluttery.”

16. Salt Dough Handprint Ornaments

If you only make one truly sentimental keepsake this year, make it this one. Salt dough hardens into something sturdy enough to store and reuse every single Christmas.

Best for: All ages

Craft Time: 20 minutes active, plus 2-3 hours baking or air-drying time

Skill Level: Beginner friendly, adult help needed for baking

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup salt, 1/2 cup water (mixed into a firm dough)
• A rolling pin
• Paint, in any colors you like
• Ribbon, for hanging
• A straw (to poke a hanging hole)

How to Make It:

1. Mix the flour, salt, and water into a smooth, firm dough, then roll it out to about half an inch thick.

2. Press your child’s hand firmly into the dough to leave a clean handprint, then trim around it with a butter knife, leaving a small border.

3. Use the straw to poke a small hole near the top edge for hanging later.

4. Bake at 200°F for 2-3 hours until fully hardened, or air-dry for 24-48 hours, flipping occasionally.

5. Once completely cool and dry, paint however you like and let the paint dry fully.

6. Thread ribbon through the hole and tie a loop for hanging.

Pro Tip: Write the year and your child’s age on the back with a permanent marker before baking. In five years, this small step will matter far more than the craft itself.

17. Yarn-Wrapped Christmas Tree

This one has a genuinely handmade, boutique look, and it’s a great choice if you want a craft that also works as real home decor once it’s finished.

Best for: Elementary age and up

Craft Time: 25-30 minutes

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cardboard cone or rolled cardstock cone per tree
• Green yarn (plus a few other colors, optional)
• Glue
• Small pom-poms, mini bells, or a button for the topper

How to Make It:

1. Starting at the base of the cone, add a small line of glue and begin wrapping yarn tightly around it.

2. Continue wrapping upward in a spiral, adding glue every few wraps to keep the yarn secure, and pressing each row snug against the last.

3. Wrap all the way to the top point and tie off the end, tucking it under the last wrap.

4. Glue small pom-poms, buttons, or mini bells across the tree as ornaments.

5. Top it off with a star or pom-pom glued at the very tip.

Fun Upgrade: Wrap two or three cones in different heights and different shades of green for an instant “little forest” centerpiece down the middle of your holiday table.

18. Pinecone Reindeer

A great pick if you want to sneak in a little nature walk before the craft table opens. Pinecones make surprisingly perfect reindeer bodies, antlers included.

Best for: Preschool through elementary age

Craft Time: 20 minutes

Skill Level: Beginner friendly

What You’ll Need:

• 1 pinecone per reindeer
• 2 small twigs, or a brown pipe cleaner twisted into antler shapes
• Googly eyes
• 1 red pom-pom, for the nose
• Glue

How to Make It:

1. Lay the pinecone on its side so the wider end faces forward, like a reindeer’s face.

2. Glue the two twigs (or twisted pipe cleaner antlers) into the top of the pinecone, angled outward.

3. Glue the googly eyes just below the antlers.

4. Glue the red pom-pom to the tip of the pinecone as the nose.

5. Let it dry fully before setting it out on display.

Pro Tip: Glue a small loop of twine to the top of the pinecone before adding the antlers, and these turn into rustic, natural-looking tree ornaments instead of tabletop decor.

19. Melted Bead Suncatcher Ornaments

This craft has a genuine “wow” factor when it comes out of the oven, and kids are consistently amazed watching plain plastic beads melt into a stained-glass shape.

Best for: Elementary age and up, oven step is an adult job

Craft Time: 15 minutes active, plus 10-15 minutes baking

Skill Level: Intermediate (adult supervision required for the oven)

What You’ll Need:

• Pony beads in holiday colors
• A metal cookie cutter (star, tree, or snowflake shapes work great)
• A baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Ribbon, for hanging

How to Make It:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Set your cookie cutter on the parchment paper and fill it with a single layer of pony beads, packing them in fairly tight.

3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching closely, until the beads have fully melted and fused together.

4. Let the pan cool for a few minutes before carefully lifting the cookie cutter away, and let the ornament cool completely and harden.

5. Once fully cool, thread a ribbon through one edge to hang.

Pro Tip: Stick to a single family of colors, like all reds and pinks, or all blues and whites, for each shape. Mixing every color in the bin tends to look muddy once melted, while a limited palette looks intentional and glassy.

Get the Whole Craft Station Ready in Advance

The secret to a smooth Christmas craft session, whether it’s just your own kids at the kitchen table or a full house of party guests, is prepping ahead.

Pre-cut anything that needs sharp scissors, pre-paint anything with a long drying time the day before, and lay out supplies in labeled bins so kids can grab what they need without a scramble.

Pick two or three crafts from this list rather than trying all nineteen in one sitting. A focused table with a couple of great options always beats an overwhelming one with too many choices.

However you spend it, here’s to a Christmas season filled with glitter on the floor, glue on the fingers, and handmade decorations that mean a whole lot more than anything store-bought ever could.