Is it beginning to look a lot like Christmas where you live? This is the time of the year in which if we’re not careful, we can get so busy planning, baking and shopping that we forget to set aside some special time to create with our kids. But art is a great way to relax, rejuvenate, and relieve some seasonal stress (that is, if you don’t mind the mess).
Below I have a fun and easy Christmas art project that’s adaptable for multiple ages. Plus, you can use it as a springboard for more elaborate creations with your more artsy kids.
Art Supplies Needed for this Christmas Art Project:
- Cardboard (chipboard or cereal box)
- Decorative paper scraps, cut into strips (even colorful magazine pages will work)
- ModPodge
- Twine or fishing line
- Hole punch
- Scissors
- Glitter (optional)
- Printed word or phrase (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Draw the shape of an ornament on the board and cut out. (To keep it super simple, use a saucer or lid and draw a round ornament.) I sketched a large sized ornament – approximately six inches long. This makes a great bedroom door hanger.
Step 2: Apply a coat of ModPodge over cardboard, then arrange the paper strips on the board in any pattern you like (I applied them in a wonky, whimsical pattern). Cover the strips with a second coat of ModPodge.
Step 3: While the glue is still wet, apply glitter (optional). Allow to dry, then repeat process on other side if desired. If you have an aversion to glitter (don’t worry, I won’t judge), use a permanent black pen or Sharpie to outline the different stripes and add more definition to them.
Another option: Add Christmas-y words or phrases to the ornament by typing in Word and printing out on your home printer. Suggestions for words/phrases: (Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noël, Ho Ho Ho, Naughty or Nice, Season’s Greetings, Winter Wonderland, etc.)
Step 4: Once ModPodge is completely dry, trim the edges of the strips of paper, punch a hole in the top of the ornament, then string your twine through it.
Step 5: Hang the over-sized ornament on door or wall. Or, encourage kids and teens to create several ornaments in various shapes, sizes and patterns to hang from ceiling with fishing wire and create a festive environment in their bedroom.
The Finished Piece:
Would you like more fun ideas for your kids & teens this Christmas season? I’d love for you to join me for my art course, Winter Wonderland! Find out more by clicking on the image below:
