Paper Drops



Total Time Needed:
1 Hour


Proof of elegance in simplicity, these graceful paper shapes come together with two snaps of a stapler.

Materials

* Colored paper
* Stapler

* Ribbon or gold cord

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Instructions

1.

ORNAMENT: Cut two 12-inch strips, two 10-inch strips, and one 8 3/4-inch strip. Line them up in this order: 12, 10, 8 3/4, 10, 12, with one set of ends even. Staple this end. Line up the other ends evenly (bending the outer strips as needed) and staple.
2.

HEART: Cut two 12-inch strips and two 9 1/2-inch strips. Line them up in this order: 9 1/2, 12, 12, 9 1/2, with one set of ends even. Staple this end. Now bend the unstapled ends into a heart shape, so a small heart lies inside a larger heart. Align the ends and staple together.
3.

TEARDROP: Cut two 12-inch strips, two 10 1/2-inch strips, and one 9-inch strip. Line them up in this order: 12, 10 1/2, 9, 10 1/2, 12, with one set of ends even. Staple this end. Next, make a crease 1 inch from the unstapled ends of the 12- and 10 1/2-inch strips. Finally, align the ends of all the strips and staple them together.
4.

Use the completed shapes to dress up a window or spin in midair from a light fixture or a ribbon. To hang each, knot the end of the gold cord and place it between the loose strips of paper at the top. Staple it all together.

Wrapping Paper Stars


These stellar but surprisingly easy party decorations (they come together with just a few cuts and twists) are made from all those odds and ends of holiday wrap you'd otherwise toss in the trash. Hang one or dozens to brighten up the house come party time.

Materials

* Heavy wrapping paper or origami paper
* Scissors

* Clear tape
* Hole Punch

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Instructions

1.

Cut eight 5- by 5-inch squares from heavy wrapping paper (you can also use precut origami paper).
2.

For each square: fold in half to form a triangle, pretty side out; fold in half again.
3.

Wrapping Paper Stars - Step 3 With scissors, cut into the first fold (now folded in half) about 3/4 inch down from the top, stopping about 1/4 inch from the end. Make a similar cut about 3/4 inch down from the first, as shown.
4.

Wrapping Paper Stars - Step 4 Open the square completely, plain side up, and bring up the 2 inside points to form a roll. Tape the points together with double-sided tape.
5.

Wrapping Paper Stars - Step 5 Flip the square over and tape together the middle points. Flip the square over again and tape the outer points.
6.

Wrapping Paper Stars - Step 6 Tape each of the 8 sections together, middle ring of one to outer ring of the next, to form a chain; tape the first and last sections together to form the star.
7.

To secure the star, tape the tips together in the center. Punch a hole at the top of one of the points and pass a string through to hang.

Dangling Snowman


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour


It doesn't take a single flake to build this frosty character -- you can round him up with white foam, buttons, and ribbon.

Materials

* 3 round objects (we used a spice jar lid, the bottom of a yogurt container, and a mason jar lid)
* Scissors
* Craft foam, white and orange
* Glue dots

* Monofilament
* Buttons
* Permanent marker
* Ribbon

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Instructions

1.

Using the round objects as patterns, cut out 2 white foam circles in each size.
2.

Dangling Snowman Step 2 Place one set of the circles on a flat surface, spacing them 1/4 inch apart. With glue dots, glue a 12-inch piece of monofilament across the circles as shown, then firmly press the matching circles on top.
3.

Use more glue dots to attach buttons and an orange craft foam nose. With a permanent marker, draw on eyes and a mouth. Finally, tie a ribbon scarf around the monofilament at the neck, and then knot the line above the head to create a loop for hanging.

This Is Cute :)

Wishing Spool


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour


Forget about postage to the North Pole. When kids roll their wish lists onto these cute-as-a-button spools, Santa will snap to attention.

Materials

* Acrylic paint and brush
* Wooden thread spool
* Marker
* Paper strip, cut to fit the width of the spool

* Double-sided tape
* Ribbon
* Self-sticking label

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Instructions

1.

Paint the spool and let it dry.
2.

Have your child write her Christmas list on the strip of paper.
3.

Roll the paper around the empty spool, using double-sided tape to fasten it, and leave some of the list hanging down (so Santa notices).
4.

Thread the ribbon through the spool's center and tie a knot at the top for hanging. Write your child's name on the self-sticking label. Affix it to the ribbon.

Sparkling Ice Crystals



Total Time Needed:
1 Hour


String up a few of these crystals, made of pipe cleaners and beads, and get ready for a flurry of compliments. For a cool twist, use silver pipe cleaners and pom-poms too.

Materials

* 12-inch white iridescent pipe cleaners
* Clear tri or sunburst beads

* Needle and fishing line
* White iridescent pom-poms

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Instructions

1.

Sparkling Ice Crystals - Step 1 Cut 6 pipe cleaners in half to create 12 pieces. Hold 11 pieces together and tightly wrap the last piece around the middle of the bundle, as shown, twisting its ends to secure it.
2.

Sparkling Ice Crystals - Step 2 Spread the pipe cleaner pieces into a starburst shape and thread about 5 beads onto each pipe cleaner half as shown.
3.

Using the needle, thread the pom-poms on the fishing line, then tie the snowflake to one end of the line.

Cool Cube Card


Total Time Needed:
Afternoon Or Evening

It arrives folded like a traditional holiday greeting, but when you follow the easy instructions for assembling it, it transforms into a photo-cube ornament to hang on the tree.

Materials

* Template
* Photograph
* Glue

* Card stock
* Ribbon

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Instructions

1.

Download and print the template. Select 6 pictures of your family and trim each to a 2- by 2-inch square. With a glue stick, affix the pictures to the template where indicated. (When the card is folded, you'll have 4 photos on the front and 2 on the back.)
2.

Cool Cube Card - Step 2 Once it's dry, take the template to a copy shop and have them print copies on 8 1/2- by 11-inch sheets of heavy card stock. The cards will print out with a white border, which the copy shop can trim for you. Have them also fold the cards in half.
3.

At home, tie a 22-inch piece of colorful ribbon around the fold of each card, as shown (it doubles as a hanger), before slipping them into 6- by 9-inch envelopes.

Cloth Candy Canes


Total Time Needed:
2-3 Hours

Fashioned from colorful fabrics, this sweet Christmas icon will last season after season.

Materials

* 3 strips of cotton fabric (we recommend using different colors and/or prints), 3 by 12 inches
* Waxed paper
* White glue

* Small paintbrush
* 3 pipe cleaners
* Wire cutters (optional)

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Instructions

1.

Step 1 One at a time, lay each fabric strip, printed side down, on a waxed paper-covered surface and use a paintbrush to coat it with a thin layer of glue. Place a pipe cleaner along one long edge.
2.

Cloth Candy Canes - Step 2 Roll the fabric around it as tightly as possible. Smooth down the outer edge.
3.

Cloth Candy Canes - Step 3 Pinch together the tops of the 3 wrapped pipe cleaners. Tightly twist them into a spiral and bend the top into a candy cane shape.
4.

spacer Set the cane in a short drinking glass to dry (it can take several hours, depending on the humidity). Then neaten the ends by trimming them with wire cutters, if needed.

Downhill Racers


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

Gear up for your holiday decorating with these handmade tree trinkets.

Materials

* Craft stick
* Emery board
* Glue

* Toothpick
* Beads
* Ribbon

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Instructions

1.

To make a set of skis like these, first use hot glue to attach 2 emery boards an inch or so from the ends of 2 colored craft sticks (available at craft stores), then glue the sticks together as shown.
2.

For each pole, glue a small button onto one end of a toothpick and a round bead to the other end for a handle.
3.

Finally, glue the poles to the skis, tie a ribbon around the set, and tie on a string loop for hanging

Fav This Yr :)


Family Tree Ornaments


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

It's fun to turn your Christmas tree into a family photo album! Select a baby picture of each member of the family to place in little hanging frames. The grandkids can find themselves first, and then try to identify everyone else.

Materials

* Family photos

* Ornament frames (seasonal item available at craft stores)

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Instructions

1.

To make your own, have your kids help select a baby photo of each family member.
2.

Then simply place them in small ornament frames, seasonal items available at craft stores, and hang them on the tree.

Variations:
For a more old-fashioned feel, the photos can be scanned, sized, and printed in black-and-white (a copy shop can do this).

Spoon Snowshoes


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

These cute little snowshoes will make for a great decoration this winter.

Materials

* Wooden ice-cream spoons
* Glue
* Button

* Toothpick
* Ribbon
* String

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Instructions

1.

Draw a simple crisscross snowshoe pattern on 2 wooden ice-cream spoons. Hot-glue a length of pipe cleaner around the edge of each spoon, then glue together the spoons at the top.
2.

For each pole, glue a small button onto one end of a toothpick, then glue a loop of ribbon to the top of each pole.
3.

Finally, glue the poles to the snowshoes, tie a ribbon around the set, and tie on a string loop for hanging.

Wired Star


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour


Although cookie cutters are best known for their work in the kitchen, these fun-shaped baking utensils can also play a role in decorating your family's Christmas tree.

Materials

* 3-foot length of 18-gauge gold-colored craft wire
* Pencil
* Star-shaped cookie cutter

* Wire cutters
* 20-to 24-gauge colored lightweight wire
* Ribbon

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Instructions

1.

Wired Star - Step 1 To make an ornament like the one here, wrap one end of a 3-foot length of 18-gauge gold-colored craft wire around a pencil to form a hanging loop. With the loop at the top of a star cookie cutter, press the wire twice around the perimeter of the cookie cutter to form a star shape, twisting it around the hanging loop and using wire cutters (a parent's job) to snip off any excess. Remove the cutter.
2.

Now your child can complete the ornament by wrapping the wire outline with lengths of 20-to 24-gauge colored lightweight wire, securing the ends in place by wrapping them around the cookie cutter outline.
3.

Finally, tie a hanging ribbon to the loop, and your ornament is ready for display.

Mice Ornaments



Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

Sweeten up the Christmas tree with a collection of chocolate mice ornaments.

Materials

* Hershey's Kisses
* Pink felt
* Scissors
* Double-sided carpet tape

* Fishing line
* Self-adhesive googly eyes
* Curling ribbon

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Instructions

1.

Remove the tags from two Hershey's Kisses. Cut out mouse ears from pink felt, about 3/8-inch high. Using double-sided carpet tape, affix the bottoms of the ears to the flat side of one of the Kisses.
2.

Tape an 8-inch loop of fishing line behind the ears to form a hanger.
3.

With more double-sided carpet tape, join together the two flat sides of the Hershey's Kisses, with the mouse ears and fishing line loop pointing up. Add a pair of self-adhesive googly eyes.
4.

Slip a tail -- a 4-inch piece of curling ribbon -- under the foil. Now, see how they run (or disappear) from your tree!

Ribbon Ornament


Total Time Needed:
Afternoon Or Evening

You may want a few of these elegant ornaments for your own home, so make sure your crafter creates a few extra. If you're lucky enough to live somewhere hot and humid this time of year, crank up the air conditioning before beginning to work: you'll get the best results in a cool, dry environment.

Materials

* Newspaper
* 9-inch round helium-quality balloon
* 2 plastic cups or yogurt containers
* Scissors
* 3 to 3 1/2 yards of 1/4- to 5/8-inch-wide satin or similar-weight ribbon (no curling or sheer ribbon)

* Measuring cup, water
* White glue, such as Elmer's (regular, not washable)
* Craft stick or paint stirrer
* String or yarn

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Instructions

1.

Have your crafter cover her work area with newspaper, then inflate a balloon to 3 or 4 inches in diameter, tie it closed, and set the balloon on an upright cup or yogurt container.
2.

Help your child cut 8 to 10 ribbons (the wider the ribbon, the fewer she'll need), each one long enough to wrap completely around the balloon with 1 inch of overlap.
3.

In the second plastic cup or container, use the craft stick to mix together 1/2 cup of glue with 1/4 cup of water. Help your child dip the ribbons, one at a time, into the glue mixture, squeezing any excess back into the cup. Starting at the top, she should snugly wrap each ribbon completely around the balloon, avoiding the balloon's knot and smoothing out any wrinkles. Have her wrap the last ribbon around the middle of the balloon, equator style.
4.

Set the ornament on the container and allow it to dry completely, turning it every 1 to 2 hours. When it has dried, help your elf carefully poke at the balloon with a pencil eraser to separate it from the ribbons, then pop the balloon with a pin and remove it. Tie a piece of string or yarn to the top of the ornament for a hanger. To add a bow, thread a length of ribbon through the bottom of the ornament. Tie the ribbon into a bow, dip it into the glue mixture, and hang the ornament over newspaper to dry.

Ribbon Candy Ornaments


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

This fun-to-fold ribbon candy decoration really dresses up a tree or a window. Arrange several in a small box, and you've got a great gift package to send to a long-distance relative or family friend.

Materials

* 17 inches of 1 1/2-inch-wide wire ribbon (striped or solid colors work well)
* 16 inches of clear fishing line or decorative thread

* Needle
* Pencil

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Instructions

1.

For each ornament, fold down 1/4 inch at each end of the ribbon, then accordion-fold the ribbon in 1 3/4-inch sections.
2.

Ribbon Candy Ornaments - Step 2 Knot one end of the fishing line and thread the other through the needle. Push the needle up through the bottom of the folded ribbon pile and return the needle 1/4 inch away from the original hole as shown. Knot the line at the bottom.
3.

Pull the line from the top until the ribbon sandwich is about 1 1/2 inch thick and the two bottom knots are taut. Knot the line on top as shown, so that a loop is left for hanging. Now use a pencil or your finger to round out the side folds.

Festive Paper Pines




Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

Kids will get a real kick out of decorating these little evergreens -- the mini bulbs come alight when you punch holes in the outer layers, revealing the colored paper sandwiched between them.

Materials

* Red and yellow stationery (or other colors you like for lights)
* Green and brown card stock
* Pinking shears or decorative craft scissors (we used Fiskars Paper Edgers)
* Hole punch

* Glue or glue dots
* Pushpin
* 2 buttons
* Monofilament

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Instructions

1.

Festive Paper Pines - Step 1 Sandwich the red and yellow paper between 2 pieces of green card stock. Cut out a tree shape.
2.

Festive Paper Pines - Step 2 Remove the red sheet and punch a few random holes through the 3 remaining layers. Then remove the yellow sheet and replace the red one. Punch several new holes through the stack.
3.

Festive Paper Pines - Step 3 Cut a tree trunk from brown card stock (make it a little taller than needed) and glue the top of it between the red and yellow layers. Now glue the green layers to the outside.
4.

Festive Paper Pines - Step 4 Use the pushpin to poke a hole through the 4 layers, about 1/4 inch from the treetop. Thread a length of monofilament through the hole, then slide a button tree topper onto each end of the line. Knot the ends of the line to create a loop for hanging.

Candle Jars


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

While melting and pouring wax is best left to adults, the creative parts of this candle-making project (choosing the perfect crayon to color the wax and decorating the glass holder with beads) are meant for kids.

Materials

* Large saucepan
* Metal canning jar lid rim
* Coffee can
* Paraffin wax
* Crayons
* Paint stirrer

* Candlesticks (one for each jar)
* Thick widemouth glass jars
* Metal tongs
* Plastic beads
* Tacky glue

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Instructions

1.

Set up a double boiler to melt the paraffin. Fill the bottom of the saucepan with 4 to 5 inches of water and drop in the canning jar lid rim. Then pack chunks of paraffin into the coffee can, setting it on the jar rim so that it doesn't directly touch the bottom of the pot.
2.

Melt the wax over medium-high heat, carefully adding more chunks until the can is about two-thirds filled. To color the melted wax, break half of a peeled crayon into pieces. Add them to the wax and slowly mix with a paint stirrer, then turn off the heat and let the paraffin cool for about 10 minutes (this will help minimize shrinkage when the wax hardens).
3.

Using a sharp knife, cut the candlesticks 1/2 inch shorter than the jar heights (adults only). Now, heat the jars by running warm water on the outsides but not the insides (this will help prevent cracking when you pour in the hot wax).
4.

With metal tongs, dip the bottom of each candlestick into the melted wax and stick it to the inner jar bottom. When the candlestick ends have hardened enough to hold, carefully pour enough wax into the jars to cover the candlestick tops but not the wicks.
5.

Once the candles cool completely, your kids can glue beads to the outside of the jar, arranging them in a border around the rim, perhaps, or creating a multicolor pattern all the way around.

Holiday Crackers


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

These simple candy-filled cardboard tubes, modeled after traditional British crackers, are a snap to mass-produce for a classroom holiday party. Your child can personalize them by adding mini handwritten notes or drawings along with the candy or add some noise by tying a jingle bell on one end.

Materials

* Scissors
* Wrapping paper
* Empty cardboard tubes, trimmed to desired lengths
* Clear tape or glue stick

* Ribbon or string
* Wrapped candy, toys, or treats
* Jingle bells (optional)

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Instructions

1.

Cut a piece of wrapping paper that's 6 inches longer than the tube and wide enough to wrap completely around it at least once. Center the tube along one long side of the paper and use tape or glue to hold it in place.
2.

Your child can then wrap the paper tightly around the tube and secure the seam with tape or glue. She should then twist the excess paper at one end and tie it closed with ribbon or string.
3.

Fill the tube with candy and other tiny surprises, then twist and tie closed the open end.

Merry Christmouse


total time needed

1hr

Like the mouse in the Clement Clarke Moore poem, this one isn't stirring, but he does make a sweet holiday gift or decoration, no cheese required.

Materials

* 2 1/2-inch Styrofoam egg
* White acrylic paint
* Fishing line
* Corsage pin
* White felt

* Pink felt
* Glue
* Googly eyes
* Craft wire, 5 inches

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Instructions

1.

Merry Christmouse - Step 1 First, use a serrated knife to cut a 2 1/2-inch Styrofoam egg in half lengthwise (parents only), then cover one of the halves with white acrylic paint and let it dry.
2.

For whiskers, fold a 2-foot length of fishing line into quarters and tie a knot at the middle. Trim the ends to about 1 1/2 inches, then stick a corsage pin (available at craft stores) through the knot and into the narrow end of the egg half.
3.

For each ear, cut a 1-inch circle from white felt, making a cut halfway through it, as shown above. Overlap the 2 sides of the cut and glue them together to create a curved shape. Glue a 1/2-inch pink felt circle to the center, then glue the ear in place.
4.

Finally, glue on a pair of googly eyes and stick a 5-inch length of craft wire in place for a tail.

Memory Lane Picture Frame

Total time needed
2-3hrs

Is your mother's or grandmother's jewelry box a treasure trove of elegant baubles? Ask her to donate some trinkets to your cause, then use them to decorate a picture frame for a sentimental sister or cousin. Want to get down to brass tacks instead? Make a treasure box with little pieces of hardware scavenged from Grandpa's tool chest.

Check out more ideas for easy-to-make Gifts that Celebrate Family.

Materials

* Picture frame (flat wood or plastic works best)
* Costume jewelry

* Foam brush
* Strong craft glue (we like Crafter's Pick The Ultimate Glue)

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Instructions

1.

To prepare the jewelry, remove earring and brooch backs and unstring any beads. Remove the glass from the picture frame.
2.

Working in sections, use the foam brush to apply a thick layer of glue, then press on the beads and jewelry. When the frame is completely dry, reinsert the glass.

Cookie Cutter Candles


Materials

* Cookie cutters (choose shapes that can stand up)
* Honeycomb wax sheets in various colors (available at craft stores or at candlewic.com; an 8- by 16-inch sheet will make 1 or 2 candles)

* Wicks
* Scissors

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Instructions

1.

For each candle, use a cookie cutter to make 10 identical shapes from the wax sheets. Divide the shapes into two stacks of 5.
2.

Sandwich a wick between the two stacks, starting at the bottom and extending it beyond the top by at least an inch. Press the sheets together gently. If they don't stick together, take the wax layers apart and use a hair dryer to gently warm each one before restacking them, adding the wick as instructed above.
3.

Trim the wick to about a half-inch. Stand your candle up, shaping the base as needed to make it sit securely.

Family Photo Books

Total time needed
1hr

Filled with favorite photos, this is just the present for a relative or special family friend, particularly one your family sees less often than you'd like.

Materials

* Assorted photos
* Craft knife
* 4-ply and 2-ply rag board (sold at art supply stores)

* 26-inch-long piece of ribbon
* Colored paper
* Glue stick

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Instructions

1.

Choose seven favorites from a stack of family photos.
2.

Family Photo Books - Step 2 Use a craft knife to cut two 5- by 6 1/2-inch rectangles from the 4-ply rag board for the book covers. For the inner pages, cut one 5- by 39-inch rectangle from the 2-ply rag board. Lightly mark 6 1/2-inch increments along the long edges of the 2-ply rag board, and accordion-fold the sheet at those marks Use a ruler edge to press the folds into sharp creases.
3.

Family Photo Books - Step 3 Lay the ribbon on a tabletop and center the folded rag board on top so that the side with three creases is on the left and lines up with the midpoint of the ribbon Apply glue to the top of the folded rag board. Then lay the left side of the ribbon over the glued page and top with one of the book covers, pressing firmly until well stuck. Flip over the book and use the same method to attach the right side of the ribbon and the back cover.
4.

Family Photo Books - Step 4 Now, cut the colored paper into seven 4- by 5 1/2-inch rectangles. Glue one onto the center of each page and the front cover. Then glue the photos onto the colored paper. Finally, print the year on the front cover.

Tips:
Open the album into a full circle, tie the ribbon binding into a bow and it's ready to display on an end table or dresser.

Foamy Frame


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

This funky foam frame is simple enough for little fingers yet presents limitless personalizing possibilities for older kids. Along with a basic square, my girls cut the foam into a Christmas tree shape, a wreath, and a computer screen.

Materials

* Scissors
* One 9-by-12-inch sheet of colored craft foam
* Flexible pocket magnet frame (we used Original Soft Pocket Magnetic Photo Frames by Lytle, available in 3 1/2 by 5 inches, 4 by 6 inches, and 5 by 7 inches)

* Hot glue gun and glue
* Assorted accessories such as beads, buttons, fake jewels, glitter, googly eyes, or prepackaged foam cutouts

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Instructions

1.

Have your child cut a shape slightly smaller than the magnetic photo frame from the center of the foam sheet. Be sure the inside edge of the foam frame overlaps the magnetic frame by at least 1/4 inch.
2.

Next, help your elf apply a thin line of hot glue to one edge of the magnetic frame's clear front and firmly press the foam frame in place. Repeat with the remaining edges, one at a time, being careful not to glue over the pocket's opening.
3.

Your child can then trim the frame as she likes, making sure to leave a margin of foam sufficient to cover the outer edge of the magnetic frame. She can also glue on decorative accessories, then slip a favorite photo into the pocket.

Santa Lollipops
Ho, ho, homemade Claus


This is a simple ornament to produce en masse for classmates or to hang on your Christmas tree. Kids may continue playing with the tiny paper Santa hats long after the lollipops are history.

Materials

* Lollipop (the kind wrapped in plastic)
* White and red paper
* Hole punch
* Glue

* Red pompon
* Googly eyes
* Cotton balls
* Thread and tape

X

Instructions

1.

First, turn your lollipop upside down, then decorate one side of it as Santa's face. Here, we glued on a white paper beard (with a punched hole for Santa's mouth), a red pompon nose and two googly eyes.
2.

Santa Lollipops Step 2 To make the hat, cut a red paper semicircle, roll it up, and tape it to form a cone (you may need to experiment to get the right size). Glue cotton ball trim around the hat's bottom.
3.

Tape a loop of thread to the lollipop stick, then pull the thread through the top of the hat so that it sits on Santa's head. Add a bit of cotton for a pompon.

Snowy T-shirt


Total Time Needed:
Weekend Projects


Even if you're expecting a white Christmas this year, your crafter will love making it snow on these whimsical winter shirts. Just be sure all elves involved wear rubber gloves and use caution during the bleaching process.

Materials

* Rubber gloves
* Brightly colored cotton T-shirt, prewashed
* Plastic trash bags or tablecloth
* Plastic grocery bags
* Scissors

* 3 kitchen sponges
* Bleach
* Small disposable container (such as an empty margarine tub)
* Spray bottle
* Fabric markers, such as FabricMate or Marvey

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Instructions

1.

To begin, lay the shirt flat on a plastic trash bag or old tablecloth and slip one or two grocery bags flat inside it. Cut the sponges into a star and two circles, one slightly larger than the other. Rinse the sponges with water and wring them out thoroughly.
2.

With a window open for ventilation, pour a shallow layer of bleach into the disposable container and about 2 inches into the spray bottle. Have your child spritz bleach across the bottom of the shirt to saturate it. She should gradually apply less bleach as she moves up the shirt, ending with a thin mist across the middle. Allow the bleach to soak in for a moment to see how it's working.
3.

To build the snowman, help your child dip the larger round sponge into the bleach, squeezing to remove excess liquid, then press the sponge onto the shirt. Lift the sponge and check the boldness of the imprint. She can repeat this step if necessary, but should avoid using too much bleach, as this can obscure the image. Repeat with the smaller round sponge for the snowman's head, then complete the scene with a bleached star. Allow the shirt to dry overnight, then soak it briefly in hot, soapy wat

Tips:
If it's not easily seen, you may want to mark the bleached (snow) and unbleached (sky) portions of the shirt with masking tape to avoid losing your snowman in a blizzard!

Trim a Tree

This preschooler-friendly project is made with humble, familiar craft sticks. Help your child make the basic tree shape, then let her decorate it however she likes.

Materials

* Strong scissors
* Craft sticks (including 1 wide craft stick)
* Tacky glue
* Green and brown acrylic paint

* Sequins
* Small wooden star or other tree-topping ornament
* String

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Instructions

1.

Use strong scissors to trim several craft sticks to lengths ranging from around 1 1/2 to 3 3/4 inches (a parent's job).
2.

Have your child choose six pieces, including one full-sized stick, and help her arrange them from shortest to longest on a wide craft stick. Adhere the pieces with tacky glue, then let the stick tree dry.
3.

Trim a Tree Step 3 Have your child paint the tree green and brown with acrylic paints. After the paint is dry, she can add sequin ornaments with glue. Our tree's topper is a small wooden star from a craft store, painted yellow. Tie a loop of string around the top of the tree for hanging

Twinkle Lights

Kick up the glitz of a plain strand of holiday lights with foil cupcake liners. For the best results, you'll want to use the sturdier, laminated foil cupcake liners (we used Wilton Silver Foil Baking Cups).

Materials

* Strand of holiday lights
* Laminated foil cupcake liners

* Scissors

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Instructions

1.

Twinkle Lights Step 1 For each light, fold a liner into eighths by folding it in half three times. Snip off two of the corners at an angle, as shown. Cut off the tip of the point to create a center hole.
2.

Twinkle Lights Step 2 Unfold the liner and flip it inside-out so that the shiny side is on the inside. Slide the liner over the light so that it sits around the base of the bulb holder.

Fancy Boot Christmas Stocking


Total Time Needed:
2-3 Hours


This boot was made for stuffing, and that's just what Santa will do this Christmas Eve.

Materials

* Scissors
* 2 pieces of purple felt, each 24 by 15 inches
* 2 pieces of black faux fur, each 24 by 15 inches
* Long sewing pins
* Large-eye sewing needle

* Purple embroidery floss
* Costume jewelry buttons and chains (sold at many fabric stores)
* Clear tape
* 9 inches of black twist cord

X

Instructions

1.

The Basic Stocking: Click here to download the fancy boot stocking pattern.
2.

Cut 1 boot shape from each piece of the purple felt and 1 from each piece of the black fur. Be sure to cut the fur boots so the toes point in opposite directions with the fur sides up.
3.

Pin together the boots with the fur boots on the inside, furry sides in, and the purple boots on the outside.
4.

Fancy Boot Christmas Stocking - Step 4 Using the floss, whipstitch around the edges, sewing the boots together. Leave the top edges unsewn.
5.

Fancy Boot Christmas Stocking - Step 5 At the top, sew together the front 2 edges, then the back 2.
6.

Fold down the top to make a cuff.
7.

The Trimmings: Use floss to sew the buttons and chains to the boot.
8.

Tape the ends of the cord to keep them from fraying, then sew the cord to the stocking for hanging.

Tips:
A Stitch for All Stockings
Thread your needle with a length of floss and knot one end. Begin sewing by pushing the needle up through the underside of the fabric and then out the top. Loop the needle back under the fabric and repeat the stitch.

Classic Stocking


Total Time Needed:
2-3 Hours

This personalized stocking will bring lots of smiles on Christmas morning.

Materials

* Scissors
* 2 pieces of red fleece, each 24 by 16 inches
* 2 pieces of white faux fur, each 24 by 16 inches
* Long sewing pins
* Large-eye sewing needle
* Red embroidery floss
* White embroidery floss

* Sheet of yellow felt, 9 by 12 inches
* Yellow embroidery floss
* Fiberfill
* Fabric paint
* Clear tape
* 9 inches of white twist cord

X

Instructions

1.

The Basic Stocking: Click here to download the classic stocking pattern.
2.

Cut 1 stocking shape from each piece of the red fleece and 1 from each piece of the faux fur . Be sure to cut the fur stockings so that the toes point in opposite directions with the fur sides up.
3.

Pin together the stockings with the fur stockings on the inside, furry sides in, and the red stockings on the outside.
4.

Classic Stocking - Step 4 Whipstitch (see page 131) around the edge with the red floss to sew the shapes together, leaving the top unsewn.
5.

Classic Stocking - Step 5 At the top, sew together the front 2 edges, then the back 2, with the white embroidery floss.
6.

Fold down the top to make a cuff.
7.

The Trimmings: Cut 2 star shapes from the yellow felt.
8.

Use the yellow floss to whipstitch around the edges, sewing the stars together. Leave a small section unsewn.
9.

Stuff the star with fiberfill, then finish sewing the edges.
10.

Write your child's name on the star with fabric paint and sew it to the edge of the cuff.
11.

Tape the ends of the cord to keep them from fraying, then sew the cord to the stocking for hanging.

Tips:
A Stitch for All Stockings
Thread your needle with a length of floss and knot one end. Begin sewing by pushing the needle up through the underside of the fabric and then out the top. Loop the needle back under the fabric and repeat the stitch

Candy Sleigh


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

Looking for a way to sweeten the wait for Santa's sleigh? This little item should help.

Materials

* Square tissue or cracker box
* Candy canes

* Red tape or paint
* Candy

X

Instructions

1.

Cut off and discard the top of the box. Trim the cut edge of the box so that it resembles a sleigh.
2.

Cover the sleigh with red tape or paint, or leave it if you like the pattern already printed on.
3.

Cut holes in the lower corners of the sleigh and insert candy canes "runners."
4.

Fill the sleigh with candy.

Candy Stick Vase


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour ]


This simple craft makes a colorful centerpiece for your holiday table or an easy gift your child can create for someone special on her list.

Materials

* Aluminum can
* Candy
* Double-sided foam mounting tape

* Ribbon
* Plastic cup

X

Instructions

1.

To make one, first snugly wrap 3 or 4 rings of double-sided foam mounting tape around a clean, dry, and labelless aluminum can (ours was 15 ounces).
2.

Peel off the tape's protective covering to expose its second sticky side.
3.

One at a time, attach colorful individually wrapped candy sticks (available at candy shops; we used 26) to the tape, setting them as close together as possible and pressing them firmly in place.
4.

For a festive finish, tie a ribbon around the container. To use the vase for fresh flowers or plants, set a plastic cup inside the can as a liner before adding water.

Lollipop Tree


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

Studded with lollipop lights, this tabletop tree is a sweet alternative to a holiday candy dish. Just be sure to keep a package of replacement "bulbs" on hand. For printable cutting instructions, check out lolli.gif.

Materials

* Corrugated cardboard that measures 9 inches across the base and 8 inches tall
* Craft knife
* Lollipops

* 11-inch wooden skewer
* Bottle cork
* Glue

X

Instructions

1.

Lollipop Tree - Step 1 Cut two triangles from cardboard. (Note: The holes in the corrugated layer should run vertically.) Draw lines across each triangle at 1-inch intervals, then cut along the lines. Discard the top two strips from one triangle.
2.

Lollipop Tree - Step 2 With a craft knife, cut narrow 1/2 inch deep notches (a parent's job) centered in the bottom edge of all the strips from the complete triangle except for the second strip from the top. Cut a similar notch in the top edge of the bottom strip in the other triangle.
3.

Next, cut out an X-shaped cardboard base on which to assemble the tree. Glue an inverted bottle cork to the center of the base. Once the glue dries, insert the tip of a narrow (1/8-inch diameter) 11-inch wooden skewer far enough into the cork to secure it.
4.

Now assemble the triangles into a tree. First, fit together the two bottom strips so that the notches interlock. Then slide them onto the skewer so that the blunt end passes through the center corrugation holes and they come to rest on the cork. Slide the next largest unnotched strip onto the skewer in like fashion. Add the matching notched strip, lock it onto the previous one, and then swivel the two so that they are at 45-degree angles to the bottom strips.
5.

Add the remaining strips, alternating between unnotched and notched pieces and swiveling each locked pair slightly. Finally, "light up" the tree with lollipops by fitting the sticks into the holes in the "boughs."

from Admin
 

Super thread, keep-it-tidy. Thanks for sharing!

Regards
Chris P
Admin

Peppermint Tree


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

With green mint boughs and sour ball lights, this tabletop tree is a treat for kids to decorate -- and for holiday guests, who can harvest goodies from its branches.

Materials

* Double-sided foam tape
* 9- by 4-inch Styrofoam cones (sold in most craft stores)
* Three 10-ounce bags of individually wrapped green striped mints
* Small bag of individually wrapped multicolored sour balls or jawbreakers

* Yellow paper
* Yellow lollipop
* Decorative candle stand

X

Instructions

1.

Apply strips of double-sided foam tape to the Styrofoam cone, as shown at left, until virtually the entire surface is covered.
2.

Now your child can attach the wrapped mints to the exposed tape, starting with one row around the bottom and working his way up. For the best coverage and color, he should stick each mint to the tree by the rounded edge rather than with the flat surface facing out. Encourage him to mix in a few multicolored sour ball or jawbreaker lights as he goes.
3.

For a tree topper, cut a star out of the yellow paper, tape the lollipop to it, and then push the lollipop stick straight down into the cone. Finally, set the tree on the decorative candle stand.

no probs Chris :) glad to share them esp at christmas we all need to spend time with our kids why not make some memorys along the way :)


most the post's dont cost alot of money to make but others need a few bits and pieces all in all they should make many hrs of happy memorys :)

Cupboard Door Décor

Get a handle on your holiday decorating routine this ear by turning your cupboard and dresser drawer knobs into festive symbols. All you need is a few craft-store supplies and, of course, a little help from your kids.

Materials

* FOR THE STAR, REINDEER, SANTA, OR CANDY CANE:
* Foamies sheets (sold at most craft stores)
* Craft knife
* Colored markers

* FOR THE TREE:
* Felt
* Metal key ring
* Brass paper fastener
* Sticker stars or glue

X

Instructions

1.

Cupboard Door Decor - Step 1 (Star) Star: Cut out a star from the Foamies sheets, then cut an asterisk-shaped opening in the center. Then accent the edge of the star with colored marker (gold or silver looks especially nice).
2.

Cupboard Door Decor - Step 2 (Reindeer) Reindeer: Glue foam antlers and eyes on a cut-out foam deer head, then use markers to draw on pupils and a mouth. Cut an asterisk-shaped opening where the nose should go. Slip the heat onto a cabinet or dresser knob. Then use double-sided tape to stick a red circle onto the knob.
3.

Cupboard Door Decor - Step 3 (Santa) Santa: From white foam, cut out a large teardrop-shaped face with a circle at the top. Cut an asterisk-shaped opening in the center where a nose should be. With colored markers, draw on a Santa's hat and facial features, then give Santa a nose by slipping the cutout onto a cabinet knob.
4.

Candy Cane: Trim a sheet of white foam into candy cane shapes and then draw on stripes with a broad-tipped red marker.
5.

Cupboard Door Decor - Step 5 (Tree) Tree: From felt, cut out a Christmas tree shape with a tall, exaggerated top. Insert the top through a large key ring and then fold it over onto the tree. Secure the overlap to the tree with a brass paper fastener (this doubles as a treetop decoration). Decorate the tree with sticker stars or glued-on felt balls.

Santa's Hitching Post

A parking space in your driveway might suffice, but there's nothing like an official hitching post to make travelers from the North Pole feel right at home.

Materials

* Thin wooden board
* Acrylic paint
* Duct tape
* Snow shovel
* Big red bow

* Jingle bells (optional)
* Rope
* Bucket
* Carrots and/or apples

X

Instructions

1.

To assemble one, use acrylic paint to print the words "Reindeer Hitching Post" on a thin wooden board. Once the paint is thoroughly dry, securely duct-tape the sign to the handle of a snow shovel. Then tie a big red bow to the handle just below the sign. You can wire on jingle bells too for an extra-festive touch.
2.

Anchor the shovel firmly in a deep mound of snow. Finally, attach a length of rope (Santa will need this to tie his hooved helpers) and place a feed bucket filled with a few carrots or apples nearby.

Candy Cane Signpost


Total Time Needed:
1-2 Hours



Here's a real treat for your tree: a candy cane-like ornament that points the way to Santa's place.

Materials

* Large craft stick (ours was 4 ½ inches long)
* Acrylic paint: white, green and red
* Craft knife
* Permanent marker
* Glue

* Small green felt holly leaves
* Red mini pom-pom berries
* White glitter
* 5-inch piece of ribbon

X

Instructions

1.

Coat a large craft stick (ours was 4 ½ inches long) with white acrylic paint and another with green paint. Let them dry, then add stripes of red paint to the white stick.
2.

Use a craft knife to cut a 3-inch section from the green stick, notching each end to create an arrow shape, as shown. Write "North Pole" on the sign in permanent marker, then glue the sign to the red-and-white craft stick.
3.

Next, glue on small green felt holly leaves and red mini pom-pom berries. If you like, add dabs of white paint, then sprinkle on white glitter for snow.
4.

Finally, glue both ends of a 5-inch piece of ribbon to the back of the signpost for a hanger and let the glue dry.

Christmas Choir


Total Time Needed:
1 Hour

Arranged on a windowsill or mantel, this caroling trio is just the prop to spread holiday cheer. These songsters also make a fun addition to the Paper Gingerbread Village.

Materials

* Tempera paint and paintbrushes
* 1 toilet paper tube
* 1 paper towel tube, cut into two different lengths
* Colored paper (for faces and mittens)
* Black marker and pink pencil

* Glue
* Sheet music (from a songbook or gift wrap)
* 3 child's socks
* String or raffia

X

Instructions

1.

Paint the tubes and set them aside to dry. From the colored paper, cut out oval face shapes and draw on eyes and mouths with the marker. Use the pink pencil to color rosy cheeks. Cut out paper mittens for each caroler too.
2.

From the sheet music, trim two small rectangles and fold each in half to resemble a mini songbook. Glue the faces onto the tubes. Then glue a songbook between each pair of mittens and glue the mittens to the tubes.
3.

For hats, trim the feet off the socks and discard them. Fold an end of each sock tube into a cuff and stretch it onto a caroler's head. Tie the hat closed with string or raffia.

Christmas Countdown Garland


Total Time Needed:
1-2 Hours

How many more days?" Answer the most popular question of the season with an Advent calendar-like garland full of surprises.

Materials

* Six 8 1/2-by 11-inch sheets of card stock
* Scissors
* Stickers

* Pen
* Ribbons
* Hole punch

X

Instructions

1.

Cut six 8 1/2-by 11-inch sheets of card stock in half the long way to create 12 pieces (more if you want to count down more than 12 days).
2.

Fold each piece, overlapping the top over the bottom, to create a "countdown card" that opens and closes, as shown above.
3.

Write a surprise inside each card--some Yuletide trivia, directions to a treasure hunt for a small toy or candy, a holiday joke, or a treat like going out to dinner or staying up late.
4.

Then seal the cards with stickers, number the outsides, punch holes in the tops, and use small pieces of ribbon to attach them all to an evergreen garland.

I Love These <3 :)


Christmas Dinner Place Markers



Total Time Needed:
1 Hour


These miniature bejeweled trees will dress your holiday table with a festive flair -- and provide a personalized spot for each of your guests.

Materials

* Green acrylic paint
* Paper cone water cups (without wax coating; 1 for each guest; available at office supply stores) or construction paper
* Clear or double-sided tape
* Glitter glue
* Craft glue

* Plastic gems
* White and gold paper
* Scissors
* Pen or marker

X

Instructions

1.

Paint some of the cups green and let them dry (about 10 minutes). If you're using construction paper instead, roll it into cones, tape the seams, then trim the bottoms so they sit evenly.
2.

Decorate the trees with garlands of glitter glue and glue on plastic gems for ornaments. Finally, glue together different-size stars cut from the white and gold paper, write a guest's name on each pair, then tape or glue the stars atop the trees.