Introduction
Christmas crafting with kids is one of my favorite ways to slow down during an otherwise hectic season. Over the years, I’ve learned that kids don’t need complicated projects to feel proud of what they make. They just need clear steps, forgiving materials, and permission to make a mess. One year I tried to over-plan a “perfect” craft afternoon and everyone melted down before step three—now I keep things simple and flexible.
Below are 20 easy Christmas DIY crafts for kids, each broken down clearly so you can recreate them at home without guessing. These ideas work well for classrooms, family nights, or weekend boredom busters, using supplies you likely already have.
1. Paper Plate Snowman
To make a paper plate snowman, start with two or three plain white paper plates for the body and head. Glue them together vertically and let them dry flat. Once secure, kids can draw eyes, a carrot nose, and buttons using markers or crayons. Add texture by gluing on cotton balls for snow, paper scraps for scarves, or construction paper hats.
This craft works well for mixed ages because younger kids can decorate while older kids help assemble. You can also turn it into a learning moment by talking about shapes, faces, or winter clothing.
Pro tip: Punch a hole at the top and add string if you want to hang the snowman on a wall or door.
2. Pine Cone Christmas Trees
Start by collecting pine cones and brushing off dirt. Paint them green using washable paint and let them dry completely. Once dry, kids can decorate the tips with beads, sequins, or small pom-poms glued onto each “branch.” A small cardboard circle or bottle cap glued to the bottom helps the pine cone stand upright.
This craft is great for kids who enjoy decorating rather than cutting. I usually set out bowls of decorations and let them choose freely—it turns into a mini art station.
Pro tip: Glue a small star cutout or foam sticker to the top for a finished tree look.
3. Popsicle Stick Reindeer
Use three popsicle sticks glued into a triangle shape as the base. Let it dry before decorating. Paint the sticks brown, then add googly eyes near the top point and a red pom-pom for the nose. Pipe cleaners twisted and glued to the top sides make antlers.
Once finished, these can be turned into ornaments or fridge magnets. Kids love naming their reindeer, which adds a fun storytelling element.
Pro tip: Clothespins work as mini clamps to hold sticks together while drying.
4. Christmas Card Ornaments
Gather old Christmas cards and cut out festive shapes like circles, stars, trees, or bells. Glue two identical shapes back-to-back with a ribbon or string sandwiched in between. This makes the ornament sturdier and more polished.
This is a wonderful recycling craft and an easy win when kids want quick results. Even uneven cuts look charming.
Pro tip: Outline edges with glitter glue to hide imperfect cuts.
5. Felt Santa Hats
Cut a triangle from red felt and a thin strip from white felt. Roll the triangle into a cone shape and glue along the seam. Attach the white strip around the bottom as trim and glue a small white pom-pom to the tip.
These mini hats can be ornaments, doll accessories, or table decorations. Older kids can practice measuring and cutting, while younger kids help glue.
Pro tip: Use tacky glue for faster hold with felt.
6. Beaded Candy Cane Decorations
Give kids pipe cleaners and red and white beads. Show them how to slide beads on, alternating colors, until the pipe cleaner is nearly full. Bend the top into a hook shape to form a candy cane.
This activity strengthens fine motor skills and keeps kids focused longer than expected. Finished candy canes can be hung on the tree or tied onto gifts.
Pro tip: Twist the pipe cleaner ends inward so beads don’t slide off.
7. Handprint Wreaths
Trace your child’s hand multiple times on green construction paper and cut them out. Arrange the handprints in a circle with fingers pointing outward, gluing them slightly overlapping. Add a red paper bow or sticker berries to complete the wreath.
This makes a meaningful keepsake, especially for younger kids. I always write the child’s name and year on the back.
Pro tip: Use different shades of green paper for depth.
8. Clay Ornaments
Roll out air-dry or baking clay to about ¼-inch thick. Use cookie cutters or freehand shapes to cut stars, trees, or circles. Poke a hole at the top with a straw before drying or baking.
Once dry, kids can paint their ornaments and add names or dates. These become treasured decorations over time.
Pro tip: Place parchment paper under clay to prevent sticking.
9. Glitter Pinecone Ornaments
Brush glue onto the edges of pine cone scales and sprinkle glitter over them. Shake off excess and let dry completely. Attach a loop of string or ribbon at the top for hanging.
This craft looks elegant but is very simple, making kids feel like they made “real” decorations.
Pro tip: Use a tray or box lid underneath to contain glitter.
10. Sock Snowmen
Fill a white sock with rice until it’s plump. Tie off the top, then tie another section lower to form the head and body. Decorate with buttons, felt, or markers, and add a scarf from fabric scraps.
This is a bit messier, but kids love the soft, weighted feel of the finished snowman.
Pro tip: Use a funnel to pour rice easily.
11. Paper Chain Garlands
Cut strips of construction paper or wrapping paper. Form a loop with one strip and glue or tape it closed, then pull the next strip through and repeat. Kids can decorate strips before assembling.
Paper chains are great for group activities and instantly fill a space with color.
Pro tip: Mix patterns and solid colors for visual interest.
12. Toilet Paper Roll Santas
Cover toilet paper rolls with red paper. Add a white paper beard, googly eyes, and a cotton ball hat trim. A small red paper cone makes the hat.
This is a perfect upcycling craft and works well for classroom settings.
Pro tip: Draw the face before gluing on the beard.
13. Salt Dough Handprint Ornaments
Mix flour, salt, and water to form dough. Roll it out and press your child’s hand firmly into it. Cut around the print and make a hole at the top. Bake until dry.
Once cooled, paint and decorate. These are especially meaningful for parents and grandparents.
Pro tip: Let dough cool fully before painting to avoid cracks.
14. Pom-Pom Christmas Trees
Draw a triangle on cardboard and let kids glue green pom-poms inside the outline. Add a yellow pom-pom or star sticker at the top.
This craft is tactile and calming, great for kids who like repetitive motions.
Pro tip: Sort pom-poms by size before starting.
15. Button Christmas Trees
Arrange green buttons from largest to smallest into a triangle shape on cardstock. Glue them down and add a brown paper trunk.
Older kids enjoy planning patterns and color gradients.
Pro tip: Lay out the design before gluing permanently.
16. Paper Snowflakes
Fold white paper or coffee filters and cut small shapes along the edges. Open carefully to reveal unique snowflakes.
This classic craft never gets old and decorates windows beautifully.
Pro tip: Start with simple cuts for younger kids.
17. Mason Jar Snow Globes
Glue a small figurine to the inside of a jar lid. Fill the jar with water and glitter, then seal tightly and flip.
Kids love shaking them and watching the “snow” fall.
Pro tip: Use waterproof glue and supervise sealing.
18. Recycled Cardboard Gingerbread Houses
Cut cardboard into house shapes and tape together. Decorate with markers, paper, stickers, or paint instead of candy.
This avoids sugar overload while still encouraging creativity.
Pro tip: Draw guidelines before decorating.
19. Yarn-Wrapped Ornaments
Cut cardboard shapes or use clear ornaments. Wrap yarn around repeatedly, securing ends with tape or glue.
This craft builds patience and coordination.
Pro tip: Thicker yarn is easier for beginners.
20. Fingerprint Christmas Lights
Draw wavy lines on paper with a marker. Kids dip fingers in paint and press along the line to make colorful bulbs.
This is quick, joyful, and perfect for short attention spans.
Pro tip: Keep baby wipes nearby for fast cleanup.
Conclusion
These easy Christmas DIY crafts for kids are about connection more than perfection. I’ve learned that the memories made at the table matter far more than straight lines or matching colors. Pick a few ideas, gather your supplies, and enjoy creating together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are safe for kids to use in Christmas crafts?
Non-toxic paints, washable glue, blunt scissors, and large decorative items are safest for kids.
How can I make Christmas crafts educational?
Incorporate counting, color sorting, pattern making, and storytelling during crafting time.
What are some quick Christmas crafts for kids?
Paper chains, fingerprint art, and bead crafts are fast and satisfying.
How can I involve younger kids in these crafts?
Let them glue, paint, or decorate while adults handle cutting and assembly.
What should I do if my child loses interest in a craft?
Pause, simplify the steps, or switch activities. Creativity doesn’t need to be finished to be valuable.
