Winter’s cold temps tend to keep people indoors for the warmth of the fireplace, but despite that, this time of year also brings out people’s creative juices. Everyone becomes a baker, inspired by visions of tasty cookies and the fantastic smells coming from the kitchen. And crafts bring a hint of nostalgia as parents watch their kids create masterpieces that will be hung in the home, taped to the door or dangled from windows and be cherished for years to come.
These craft ideas are fun to make and will keep your little one busy this winter. Let’s craft!
STICK SNOWFLAKE
Materials: Sticks and Twine
Gather sticks of the same size and spread them out, keeping them together in the middle. Tie twine around and through the sticks, making sure the snowflake keeps its shape. This craft is super easy and can be made in all sizes. For smaller sizes, instead of sticks, use twigs.
SNOWY PINE CONE
Materials: Pine cone, White acrylic paint, Paintbrush, Epsom salts, Twine, Hot glue, Wooden bead
Apply white paint to the top of each scale of the pine cone. While paint is still wet, grab a handful of Epsom salts and sprinkle over the pine cone. The salt will stick to the paint, giving your pine cone a frosted look. Let dry. Glue a wooden bead sideways onto the top and loop twine through and tie a knot.
TWIG CAMPFIRE
Materials: Handful of twigs, Coaster or another sturdy base, Battery-operated votive, Craft glue
Glue along the length of your first twig and press onto your base. Add another layer, applying glue so it affixes to the bottom layer, forming a rough circle. Continue to glue and build your layers of twigs until the structure is about 2 inches high. Turn on your votive and drop it into your campfire.
REINDEER
Materials: Twigs, Red felt, Googly eyes, Yarn, Hot glue
Cut the twigs so they’re the same size. Lay them in a triangle, placing the long ends over the short end, and glue the ends together. With the felt, cut a small circle for the nose and glue it to the bottom of the triangle. Glue googly eyes on to finish the look. Finally, attach both ends of the yarn at the ears.
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Written by Vong Hamilton and Kristin Hinnant. Photos by Deanna Curry, Kendra Reeder and Kristin Hinnant.
What are your favorite winter crafts? Leave a comment below!
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