ARTFUL EXPERIENCES
Christmas Shadow Boxes
Mini scenes with maximum glow!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
This one is an all-time Smudge favourite, and it’s inspired by Paige and her incredible studio Hooray Art in Virginia. It has that rare mix of calm focus and total magic.
Create a small “sparkle bar” filled with Christmas-ready loose parts. Gems, beads, sequins, snowflakes, letter beads, dried petals, glitter, anything that catches the light and feels special. You’ll also need a raw wooden shadow box and watercolours for each artist.
Smudge Tip
Shallower boxes work best! Deep boxes encourage heavy layers of glue, which take much longer to dry and can stay cloudy. Raw ply boxes are just ideal as they’re affordable, light enough to hang, and soak up watercolour beautifully.
The Making
Invite the kids to paint the inside of their box (plus around the outside of the 'frame'). Liquid watercolours or palette watercolours both work so, so well. The wood grain still shows through, which adds warmth and depth once everything is layered on top.
While you leave the watercolours to dry, let each artist gather their chosen treasures into a small cup or bowl. This is such a lovely opportunity to discuss their ideas, with colour schemes or the feelings they want to portray about Christmas. Art curation is the best!
Then they'll need to pour a thin layer of clear glue into the base of the box, just enough to cover the surface and reach about one to two centimetres deep. Any more than that and drying time becomes a test of patience.
Now comes the extra fun part! Kids place their treasures one by one, adjusting, nudging, rearranging. They could build tiny festive scenes or scatter sparkles like snowfall. Letter beads are also perfect for meaningful messages or names or a line from a favourite carol.
Once finished, move the boxes somewhere warm to dry. Outdoors works beautifully if you’re in the southern hemisphere (like me!) and it's sunny at this time of year. Indoors is perfect too, as long as they’re left undisturbed (and flat!).
When fully dry, you can add a wire loop for hanging or attach magnetic strips to the back to add to the fridge.
Variations
Use a limited palette for a more tonal look, all whites and golds or icy blues and silvers.
Turn the boxes into gorgeous gifts by adding a small handwritten tag on the back.
Materials
Raw wooden shadow boxes
Liquid or palette watercolours
Clear glue or gum
Assorted Christmas loose parts
Small cups or bowls for collecting
Wire loops or magnetic strips for finishing
Back to Top
Christmas Shadow Boxes
Mini scenes with maximum glow!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
This one is an all-time Smudge favourite, and it’s inspired by Paige and her incredible studio Hooray Art in Virginia. It has that rare mix of calm focus and total magic.
Create a small “sparkle bar” filled with Christmas-ready loose parts. Gems, beads, sequins, snowflakes, letter beads, dried petals, glitter, anything that catches the light and feels special. You’ll also need a raw wooden shadow box and watercolours for each artist.
Smudge Tip
Shallower boxes work best! Deep boxes encourage heavy layers of glue, which take much longer to dry and can stay cloudy. Raw ply boxes are just ideal as they’re affordable, light enough to hang, and soak up watercolour beautifully.
The Making
Invite the kids to paint the inside of their box (plus around the outside of the 'frame'). Liquid watercolours or palette watercolours both work so, so well. The wood grain still shows through, which adds warmth and depth once everything is layered on top.
While you leave the watercolours to dry, let each artist gather their chosen treasures into a small cup or bowl. This is such a lovely opportunity to discuss their ideas, with colour schemes or the feelings they want to portray about Christmas. Art curation is the best!
Then they'll need to pour a thin layer of clear glue into the base of the box, just enough to cover the surface and reach about one to two centimetres deep. Any more than that and drying time becomes a test of patience.
Now comes the extra fun part! Kids place their treasures one by one, adjusting, nudging, rearranging. They could build tiny festive scenes or scatter sparkles like snowfall. Letter beads are also perfect for meaningful messages or names or a line from a favourite carol.
Once finished, move the boxes somewhere warm to dry. Outdoors works beautifully if you’re in the southern hemisphere (like me!) and it's sunny at this time of year. Indoors is perfect too, as long as they’re left undisturbed (and flat!).
When fully dry, you can add a wire loop for hanging or attach magnetic strips to the back to add to the fridge.
Variations
Use a limited palette for a more tonal look, all whites and golds or icy blues and silvers.
Turn the boxes into gorgeous gifts by adding a small handwritten tag on the back.
Materials
Raw wooden shadow boxes
Liquid or palette watercolours
Clear glue or gum
Assorted Christmas loose parts
Small cups or bowls for collecting
Wire loops or magnetic strips for finishing
Back to Top
Christmas Shadow Boxes
Mini scenes with maximum glow!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
This one is an all-time Smudge favourite, and it’s inspired by Paige and her incredible studio Hooray Art in Virginia. It has that rare mix of calm focus and total magic.
Create a small “sparkle bar” filled with Christmas-ready loose parts. Gems, beads, sequins, snowflakes, letter beads, dried petals, glitter, anything that catches the light and feels special. You’ll also need a raw wooden shadow box and watercolours for each artist.
Smudge Tip
Shallower boxes work best! Deep boxes encourage heavy layers of glue, which take much longer to dry and can stay cloudy. Raw ply boxes are just ideal as they’re affordable, light enough to hang, and soak up watercolour beautifully.
The Making
Invite the kids to paint the inside of their box (plus around the outside of the 'frame'). Liquid watercolours or palette watercolours both work so, so well. The wood grain still shows through, which adds warmth and depth once everything is layered on top.
While you leave the watercolours to dry, let each artist gather their chosen treasures into a small cup or bowl. This is such a lovely opportunity to discuss their ideas, with colour schemes or the feelings they want to portray about Christmas. Art curation is the best!
Then they'll need to pour a thin layer of clear glue into the base of the box, just enough to cover the surface and reach about one to two centimetres deep. Any more than that and drying time becomes a test of patience.
Now comes the extra fun part! Kids place their treasures one by one, adjusting, nudging, rearranging. They could build tiny festive scenes or scatter sparkles like snowfall. Letter beads are also perfect for meaningful messages or names or a line from a favourite carol.
Once finished, move the boxes somewhere warm to dry. Outdoors works beautifully if you’re in the southern hemisphere (like me!) and it's sunny at this time of year. Indoors is perfect too, as long as they’re left undisturbed (and flat!).
When fully dry, you can add a wire loop for hanging or attach magnetic strips to the back to add to the fridge.
Variations
Use a limited palette for a more tonal look, all whites and golds or icy blues and silvers.
Turn the boxes into gorgeous gifts by adding a small handwritten tag on the back.
Materials
Raw wooden shadow boxes
Liquid or palette watercolours
Clear glue or gum
Assorted Christmas loose parts
Small cups or bowls for collecting
Wire loops or magnetic strips for finishing
Back to Top
Wreath Weaving
Weave and wrap and loop
Bookmark
Installations
The Set Up
This is a beautiful way to bring everyone together around one generous shape. I usually form a large circle using armature wire or florist wire, but if you have access to vine branches, that’s even lovelier. Natural, flexible, and already full of character.
Hang the wreath once the basic shape is made so you can really see its scale, and then keep layering the wire (or vines!) so it's a sturdy structure. Three hanging points works best to keep it balanced and steady. From the bottom, tie on four or five small balls of wool or yarn so they hang down and are ready for little artists. The wreath doesn’t need to be perfect. A slightly wonky circle is part of the charm!
Offer a limited but rich palette of yarns, ribbons, fabric strips, tinsel, faux greenery, or whatever festive fibres you love working with.
The Making
Kids will tackle this in their own way. Some weave neatly back and forth. Others go for the fun part and start looping, wrapping, tossing yarn through and seeing what happens. Quick, slow, careful, chaotic. It all works!
Because it’s a shared wreath, kids naturally start reacting to what’s already there. Filling gaps, matching colour, changing directions, or adding a wild bit of texture.
And then suddenly it looks so so good! Thick with colour and full of texture and very obviously made by lots of hands.
Variations
Create smaller individual wreaths using embroidery hoops or cardboard rings.
Reuse the base next year. Unwrap, rewind, and start again!
Materials
Armature wire, florist wire, or vine branches
String or fishing line for hanging
Yarn, wool, ribbons, fabric strips, tinsel, faux greenery
Scissors
Back to Top
Wreath Weaving
Weave and wrap and loop
Bookmark
Installations
The Set Up
This is a beautiful way to bring everyone together around one generous shape. I usually form a large circle using armature wire or florist wire, but if you have access to vine branches, that’s even lovelier. Natural, flexible, and already full of character.
Hang the wreath once the basic shape is made so you can really see its scale, and then keep layering the wire (or vines!) so it's a sturdy structure. Three hanging points works best to keep it balanced and steady. From the bottom, tie on four or five small balls of wool or yarn so they hang down and are ready for little artists. The wreath doesn’t need to be perfect. A slightly wonky circle is part of the charm!
Offer a limited but rich palette of yarns, ribbons, fabric strips, tinsel, faux greenery, or whatever festive fibres you love working with.
The Making
Kids will tackle this in their own way. Some weave neatly back and forth. Others go for the fun part and start looping, wrapping, tossing yarn through and seeing what happens. Quick, slow, careful, chaotic. It all works!
Because it’s a shared wreath, kids naturally start reacting to what’s already there. Filling gaps, matching colour, changing directions, or adding a wild bit of texture.
And then suddenly it looks so so good! Thick with colour and full of texture and very obviously made by lots of hands.
Variations
Create smaller individual wreaths using embroidery hoops or cardboard rings.
Reuse the base next year. Unwrap, rewind, and start again!
Materials
Armature wire, florist wire, or vine branches
String or fishing line for hanging
Yarn, wool, ribbons, fabric strips, tinsel, faux greenery
Scissors
Back to Top
Wreath Weaving
Weave and wrap and loop
Bookmark
Installations
The Set Up
This is a beautiful way to bring everyone together around one generous shape. I usually form a large circle using armature wire or florist wire, but if you have access to vine branches, that’s even lovelier. Natural, flexible, and already full of character.
Hang the wreath once the basic shape is made so you can really see its scale, and then keep layering the wire (or vines!) so it's a sturdy structure. Three hanging points works best to keep it balanced and steady. From the bottom, tie on four or five small balls of wool or yarn so they hang down and are ready for little artists. The wreath doesn’t need to be perfect. A slightly wonky circle is part of the charm!
Offer a limited but rich palette of yarns, ribbons, fabric strips, tinsel, faux greenery, or whatever festive fibres you love working with.
The Making
Kids will tackle this in their own way. Some weave neatly back and forth. Others go for the fun part and start looping, wrapping, tossing yarn through and seeing what happens. Quick, slow, careful, chaotic. It all works!
Because it’s a shared wreath, kids naturally start reacting to what’s already there. Filling gaps, matching colour, changing directions, or adding a wild bit of texture.
And then suddenly it looks so so good! Thick with colour and full of texture and very obviously made by lots of hands.
Variations
Create smaller individual wreaths using embroidery hoops or cardboard rings.
Reuse the base next year. Unwrap, rewind, and start again!
Materials
Armature wire, florist wire, or vine branches
String or fishing line for hanging
Yarn, wool, ribbons, fabric strips, tinsel, faux greenery
Scissors
Back to Top
3D Paper Stars
Big impact with big, big joy!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
This is one of those processes that looks impressive but is actually very doable once you know the rhythm. You’ll need paper bags or lunch bags, glue, scissors, a hole punch and string for hanging. We usually use 7 bags per star. Thicker paper bags hold their shape best and give you that crisp, sculptural finish.
Stack the bags neatly with all the openings facing the same direction. Point the folded flap at the bottom of each bag upwards. That flap matters! It’s what gives the star its structure once it opens. So you apply the glue to the flap and then in a line upwards to form an upside down T. Then stick down the next bag with the flat side facing down into the glue, and the flap of the new bag facing upwards again. And so on!
Smudge Tip
For younger artists or thicker bags, split the stack. Glue 3 bags together in one pile and 4 in another, then cut the design into each stack separately. It makes cutting much easier and keeps the shapes cleaner. An adult can always help with this step if needed. once they've all got the same design cut into them, then you can go ahead and glue the two stack together so that all 7 bags are attached and lined up.
The Making
Draw a simple / bold design on the top bag. Curves, points and half circles work beautifully. Avoid anything too tiny because it can be trick to cut out intricate designs. Cut straight through the stack.
Now comes the moment everyone waits for! Hold both ends and gently pull the stack open into a star.
Glue the two outer edges together to secure the shape, or leave them unglued and add a hole punch and string so the star can be folded flat and reused year after year.
Finish with watercolours and metallic paints. Soft washes soak into the paper and give the star depth, or a touch of gold or silver will add just enough sparkle.
Materials
Paper bags or lunch bags. We like 120 gsm paper bags with the following dimensions 295 H x 160 W x 85 D mm gusset.
Glue sticks or liquid / hot glue
Scissors
Hole punch
String or fishing line
Watercolour paints
Metallic paints
Brushes
Gallery
Back to Top
3D Paper Stars
Big impact with big, big joy!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
This is one of those processes that looks impressive but is actually very doable once you know the rhythm. You’ll need paper bags or lunch bags, glue, scissors, a hole punch and string for hanging. We usually use 7 bags per star. Thicker paper bags hold their shape best and give you that crisp, sculptural finish.
Stack the bags neatly with all the openings facing the same direction. Point the folded flap at the bottom of each bag upwards. That flap matters! It’s what gives the star its structure once it opens. So you apply the glue to the flap and then in a line upwards to form an upside down T. Then stick down the next bag with the flat side facing down into the glue, and the flap of the new bag facing upwards again. And so on!
Smudge Tip
For younger artists or thicker bags, split the stack. Glue 3 bags together in one pile and 4 in another, then cut the design into each stack separately. It makes cutting much easier and keeps the shapes cleaner. An adult can always help with this step if needed. once they've all got the same design cut into them, then you can go ahead and glue the two stack together so that all 7 bags are attached and lined up.
The Making
Draw a simple / bold design on the top bag. Curves, points and half circles work beautifully. Avoid anything too tiny because it can be trick to cut out intricate designs. Cut straight through the stack.
Now comes the moment everyone waits for! Hold both ends and gently pull the stack open into a star.
Glue the two outer edges together to secure the shape, or leave them unglued and add a hole punch and string so the star can be folded flat and reused year after year.
Finish with watercolours and metallic paints. Soft washes soak into the paper and give the star depth, or a touch of gold or silver will add just enough sparkle.
Materials
Paper bags or lunch bags. We like 120 gsm paper bags with the following dimensions 295 H x 160 W x 85 D mm gusset.
Glue sticks or liquid / hot glue
Scissors
Hole punch
String or fishing line
Watercolour paints
Metallic paints
Brushes
Gallery
Back to Top
3D Paper Stars
Big impact with big, big joy!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
This is one of those processes that looks impressive but is actually very doable once you know the rhythm. You’ll need paper bags or lunch bags, glue, scissors, a hole punch and string for hanging. We usually use 7 bags per star. Thicker paper bags hold their shape best and give you that crisp, sculptural finish.
Stack the bags neatly with all the openings facing the same direction. Point the folded flap at the bottom of each bag upwards. That flap matters! It’s what gives the star its structure once it opens. So you apply the glue to the flap and then in a line upwards to form an upside down T. Then stick down the next bag with the flat side facing down into the glue, and the flap of the new bag facing upwards again. And so on!
Smudge Tip
For younger artists or thicker bags, split the stack. Glue 3 bags together in one pile and 4 in another, then cut the design into each stack separately. It makes cutting much easier and keeps the shapes cleaner. An adult can always help with this step if needed. once they've all got the same design cut into them, then you can go ahead and glue the two stack together so that all 7 bags are attached and lined up.
The Making
Draw a simple / bold design on the top bag. Curves, points and half circles work beautifully. Avoid anything too tiny because it can be trick to cut out intricate designs. Cut straight through the stack.
Now comes the moment everyone waits for! Hold both ends and gently pull the stack open into a star.
Glue the two outer edges together to secure the shape, or leave them unglued and add a hole punch and string so the star can be folded flat and reused year after year.
Finish with watercolours and metallic paints. Soft washes soak into the paper and give the star depth, or a touch of gold or silver will add just enough sparkle.
Materials
Paper bags or lunch bags. We like 120 gsm paper bags with the following dimensions 295 H x 160 W x 85 D mm gusset.
Glue sticks or liquid / hot glue
Scissors
Hole punch
String or fishing line
Watercolour paints
Metallic paints
Brushes
Gallery
Back to Top
Festive Sensory Play
A pause button in the middle of the season.
Bookmark
Sensory Play
The Set Up
This one is all about slowing things down. A grounding, open-ended sensory space that feels especially welcome during the busyness of December.
Start with the sensory base. We love dyed rice in festive tones, reds, greens, whites, golds, but you can adjust the palette to suit your space and holiday vibes. If dyeing rice feels a bit mysterious, don’t worry! It’s quick and very forgiving. We’ve shared our go-to method over on the blog if you’d like to see exactly how we do it.
Layer in loose parts that invite scooping, pouring, and gentle play. Tiny pine offcuts for scent and texture, brass cups, small bowls, spoons, bells, beads, ornaments, and a little sparkle. Mirrors at the base of the tub are always a winner, reflecting light and movement as hands explore.
Why it Matters
Sensory play offers children a chance to slow their nervous system and settle into their bodies. The repetitive actions of scooping, pouring, and sifting create a natural rhythm that supports focus, regulation, and calm.
During a busy season like Christmas, this kind of play becomes especially valuable. It gives kids space to reset, to engage without performance or pressure, and to follow their own pace. Fine motor strength, coordination, and real-life skills are all quietly supported, but the real value is in the pause it creates.
Materials
Dyed rice (or another sensory base you love)
Large shallow tub or tray
Small bowls, cups, spoons, scoops, funnels
Tiny pine offcuts or natural loose parts
Christmas decorations or ornaments (unbreakable)
Bells, beads, or sparkly details
Mirrors for the base of the tray (optional but lovely)
Back to Top
Festive Sensory Play
A pause button in the middle of the season.
Bookmark
Sensory Play
The Set Up
This one is all about slowing things down. A grounding, open-ended sensory space that feels especially welcome during the busyness of December.
Start with the sensory base. We love dyed rice in festive tones, reds, greens, whites, golds, but you can adjust the palette to suit your space and holiday vibes. If dyeing rice feels a bit mysterious, don’t worry! It’s quick and very forgiving. We’ve shared our go-to method over on the blog if you’d like to see exactly how we do it.
Layer in loose parts that invite scooping, pouring, and gentle play. Tiny pine offcuts for scent and texture, brass cups, small bowls, spoons, bells, beads, ornaments, and a little sparkle. Mirrors at the base of the tub are always a winner, reflecting light and movement as hands explore.
Why it Matters
Sensory play offers children a chance to slow their nervous system and settle into their bodies. The repetitive actions of scooping, pouring, and sifting create a natural rhythm that supports focus, regulation, and calm.
During a busy season like Christmas, this kind of play becomes especially valuable. It gives kids space to reset, to engage without performance or pressure, and to follow their own pace. Fine motor strength, coordination, and real-life skills are all quietly supported, but the real value is in the pause it creates.
Materials
Dyed rice (or another sensory base you love)
Large shallow tub or tray
Small bowls, cups, spoons, scoops, funnels
Tiny pine offcuts or natural loose parts
Christmas decorations or ornaments (unbreakable)
Bells, beads, or sparkly details
Mirrors for the base of the tray (optional but lovely)
Back to Top
Festive Sensory Play
A pause button in the middle of the season.
Bookmark
Sensory Play
The Set Up
This one is all about slowing things down. A grounding, open-ended sensory space that feels especially welcome during the busyness of December.
Start with the sensory base. We love dyed rice in festive tones, reds, greens, whites, golds, but you can adjust the palette to suit your space and holiday vibes. If dyeing rice feels a bit mysterious, don’t worry! It’s quick and very forgiving. We’ve shared our go-to method over on the blog if you’d like to see exactly how we do it.
Layer in loose parts that invite scooping, pouring, and gentle play. Tiny pine offcuts for scent and texture, brass cups, small bowls, spoons, bells, beads, ornaments, and a little sparkle. Mirrors at the base of the tub are always a winner, reflecting light and movement as hands explore.
Why it Matters
Sensory play offers children a chance to slow their nervous system and settle into their bodies. The repetitive actions of scooping, pouring, and sifting create a natural rhythm that supports focus, regulation, and calm.
During a busy season like Christmas, this kind of play becomes especially valuable. It gives kids space to reset, to engage without performance or pressure, and to follow their own pace. Fine motor strength, coordination, and real-life skills are all quietly supported, but the real value is in the pause it creates.
Materials
Dyed rice (or another sensory base you love)
Large shallow tub or tray
Small bowls, cups, spoons, scoops, funnels
Tiny pine offcuts or natural loose parts
Christmas decorations or ornaments (unbreakable)
Bells, beads, or sparkly details
Mirrors for the base of the tray (optional but lovely)
Back to Top
Stamped Wrapping Paper
Make the paper part of the present!
Bookmark
Print Making
The Set Up
This is printmaking with a very real purpose. You’ll need long rolls of paper and space to spread out. Kraft paper is our favourite because it makes colours pop and instantly feels special, but white paper absolutely works too.
For stamps, create your own using cardboard or wooden blocks as a base. Draw a bold shape and build it up with foam stickers, keeping everything roughly the same thickness so the stamp prints evenly. Stars, trees, circles, stripes and simple festive shapes work so well here. But really, the sky's the limit!
Set out paint in trays. Poster paint is perfect, especially if you mix in a little white to boost opacity. If you want a more refined print, block printing ink is beautiful and only needs the tiniest amount.
Roll out at least one to one and a half metres of paper per child.
The Making
Ink up the stamp using a roller or sponge brush, then press it down firmly onto the paper. Lifting straight up gives the cleanest print, but a bit of wobble or overlap only adds character.
Encourage the artists to think about rhythm rather than perfection. Repeating a shape. Leaving gaps. Turning the stamp as they go. Swapping stamps with a friend to see what happens. This is pattern-making in the most playful way.
Some kids love creating a steady repeat, others prefer scattered prints or layered colour. Both are fabulous once the whole length is filled, and I just adore how individual they all are when finished!
Why we love this one
It connects process art to everyday life. Kids see their work used, folded, tied and given. There’s pride in that, and a quiet understanding that art doesn’t have to live on a wall to matter!
Variations
Limit the colour palette for a more graphic look.
Try printing vertically by taping paper to the wall if floor space is tight.
Use the stamps to create Christmas cards and present tags to match.
Materials
Kraft or white wrapping paper
Cardboard or wooden blocks for stamp bases
Foam stickers
Poster paint or block printing ink
Rollers or sponge brushes
Paint trays
Drop sheets
Back to Top
Stamped Wrapping Paper
Make the paper part of the present!
Bookmark
Print Making
The Set Up
This is printmaking with a very real purpose. You’ll need long rolls of paper and space to spread out. Kraft paper is our favourite because it makes colours pop and instantly feels special, but white paper absolutely works too.
For stamps, create your own using cardboard or wooden blocks as a base. Draw a bold shape and build it up with foam stickers, keeping everything roughly the same thickness so the stamp prints evenly. Stars, trees, circles, stripes and simple festive shapes work so well here. But really, the sky's the limit!
Set out paint in trays. Poster paint is perfect, especially if you mix in a little white to boost opacity. If you want a more refined print, block printing ink is beautiful and only needs the tiniest amount.
Roll out at least one to one and a half metres of paper per child.
The Making
Ink up the stamp using a roller or sponge brush, then press it down firmly onto the paper. Lifting straight up gives the cleanest print, but a bit of wobble or overlap only adds character.
Encourage the artists to think about rhythm rather than perfection. Repeating a shape. Leaving gaps. Turning the stamp as they go. Swapping stamps with a friend to see what happens. This is pattern-making in the most playful way.
Some kids love creating a steady repeat, others prefer scattered prints or layered colour. Both are fabulous once the whole length is filled, and I just adore how individual they all are when finished!
Why we love this one
It connects process art to everyday life. Kids see their work used, folded, tied and given. There’s pride in that, and a quiet understanding that art doesn’t have to live on a wall to matter!
Variations
Limit the colour palette for a more graphic look.
Try printing vertically by taping paper to the wall if floor space is tight.
Use the stamps to create Christmas cards and present tags to match.
Materials
Kraft or white wrapping paper
Cardboard or wooden blocks for stamp bases
Foam stickers
Poster paint or block printing ink
Rollers or sponge brushes
Paint trays
Drop sheets
Back to Top
Stamped Wrapping Paper
Make the paper part of the present!
Bookmark
Print Making
The Set Up
This is printmaking with a very real purpose. You’ll need long rolls of paper and space to spread out. Kraft paper is our favourite because it makes colours pop and instantly feels special, but white paper absolutely works too.
For stamps, create your own using cardboard or wooden blocks as a base. Draw a bold shape and build it up with foam stickers, keeping everything roughly the same thickness so the stamp prints evenly. Stars, trees, circles, stripes and simple festive shapes work so well here. But really, the sky's the limit!
Set out paint in trays. Poster paint is perfect, especially if you mix in a little white to boost opacity. If you want a more refined print, block printing ink is beautiful and only needs the tiniest amount.
Roll out at least one to one and a half metres of paper per child.
The Making
Ink up the stamp using a roller or sponge brush, then press it down firmly onto the paper. Lifting straight up gives the cleanest print, but a bit of wobble or overlap only adds character.
Encourage the artists to think about rhythm rather than perfection. Repeating a shape. Leaving gaps. Turning the stamp as they go. Swapping stamps with a friend to see what happens. This is pattern-making in the most playful way.
Some kids love creating a steady repeat, others prefer scattered prints or layered colour. Both are fabulous once the whole length is filled, and I just adore how individual they all are when finished!
Why we love this one
It connects process art to everyday life. Kids see their work used, folded, tied and given. There’s pride in that, and a quiet understanding that art doesn’t have to live on a wall to matter!
Variations
Limit the colour palette for a more graphic look.
Try printing vertically by taping paper to the wall if floor space is tight.
Use the stamps to create Christmas cards and present tags to match.
Materials
Kraft or white wrapping paper
Cardboard or wooden blocks for stamp bases
Foam stickers
Poster paint or block printing ink
Rollers or sponge brushes
Paint trays
Drop sheets
Back to Top
Oh, Christmas Tree!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
Cardboard trees are one of the easiest ways to get proper Christmas energy into a room, without turning it into a craft chaos situation. They stand tall, they look brilliant grouped together, and they give kids a big surface to paint without needing a “perfect” drawing.
If you can source cardboard yarn cones, they are ideal. They already have the right taper, they are sturdy, and they sit happily on a table. If you don't have cones, cut two identical tree shapes from thick cardboard. Add a slit from the top down on one tree, and a matching slit from the bottom up on the other. Slot them together and you have a standing tree. Ta-da!
Set out paint in a range of greens plus a few surprise options, because real trees are never one flat colour. White is non negotiable for mixing and for highlights. A small amount of black helps older kids explore shade without turning everything muddy. Glitter is optional, but honestly, it is Christmas!
The Making
Start with paint! Broad strokes and patterns and blocks of colour. While the paint is still wet, sprinkle on glitter or sparkles so they really stick.
Once the trees are dry enough to handle it's time to decorate (just like the real thing!). Wire gets wrapped and bent. Beads slide on. Stars get added to the top. This is a great moment to talk about balance and structure so that if something tips, kids adjust. If it leans, they problem solve.
Artist Study: Paul Klee
Paul Klee was a Swiss artist working in the early 1900s. He returned to trees again and again throughout his work, but never as something to copy or get “right.” His trees are built slowly through colour, pattern, and repeated marks. Nature was a huge influence for him, especially gardens, landscapes, and trees.
What’s interesting for kids is that Klee wasn’t painting leaves or branches. He was building a structure through layers. Colour next to colour. Shape stacked on shape. Texture doing the work.
It’s a great reminder that a tree doesn’t need to look realistic to feel complete! It can be abstract, decorative, messy, joyful, and bold. Exactly like the ones that start to appear when kids are given time, colour, and permission to experiment.
Materials
Cardboard yarn cones or thick cardboard for cut out trees
Poster paint or paint sticks
White paint for mixing and highlights
Optional black paint for shade
Brushes, sponges, rollers
Glitter
Florist wire
Beads
Cardstock for stars
Scissors
Hot glue for attaching stars and wire (optional)
Gallery
Back to Top
Oh, Christmas Tree!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
Cardboard trees are one of the easiest ways to get proper Christmas energy into a room, without turning it into a craft chaos situation. They stand tall, they look brilliant grouped together, and they give kids a big surface to paint without needing a “perfect” drawing.
If you can source cardboard yarn cones, they are ideal. They already have the right taper, they are sturdy, and they sit happily on a table. If you don't have cones, cut two identical tree shapes from thick cardboard. Add a slit from the top down on one tree, and a matching slit from the bottom up on the other. Slot them together and you have a standing tree. Ta-da!
Set out paint in a range of greens plus a few surprise options, because real trees are never one flat colour. White is non negotiable for mixing and for highlights. A small amount of black helps older kids explore shade without turning everything muddy. Glitter is optional, but honestly, it is Christmas!
The Making
Start with paint! Broad strokes and patterns and blocks of colour. While the paint is still wet, sprinkle on glitter or sparkles so they really stick.
Once the trees are dry enough to handle it's time to decorate (just like the real thing!). Wire gets wrapped and bent. Beads slide on. Stars get added to the top. This is a great moment to talk about balance and structure so that if something tips, kids adjust. If it leans, they problem solve.
Artist Study: Paul Klee
Paul Klee was a Swiss artist working in the early 1900s. He returned to trees again and again throughout his work, but never as something to copy or get “right.” His trees are built slowly through colour, pattern, and repeated marks. Nature was a huge influence for him, especially gardens, landscapes, and trees.
What’s interesting for kids is that Klee wasn’t painting leaves or branches. He was building a structure through layers. Colour next to colour. Shape stacked on shape. Texture doing the work.
It’s a great reminder that a tree doesn’t need to look realistic to feel complete! It can be abstract, decorative, messy, joyful, and bold. Exactly like the ones that start to appear when kids are given time, colour, and permission to experiment.
Materials
Cardboard yarn cones or thick cardboard for cut out trees
Poster paint or paint sticks
White paint for mixing and highlights
Optional black paint for shade
Brushes, sponges, rollers
Glitter
Florist wire
Beads
Cardstock for stars
Scissors
Hot glue for attaching stars and wire (optional)
Gallery
Back to Top
Oh, Christmas Tree!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
Cardboard trees are one of the easiest ways to get proper Christmas energy into a room, without turning it into a craft chaos situation. They stand tall, they look brilliant grouped together, and they give kids a big surface to paint without needing a “perfect” drawing.
If you can source cardboard yarn cones, they are ideal. They already have the right taper, they are sturdy, and they sit happily on a table. If you don't have cones, cut two identical tree shapes from thick cardboard. Add a slit from the top down on one tree, and a matching slit from the bottom up on the other. Slot them together and you have a standing tree. Ta-da!
Set out paint in a range of greens plus a few surprise options, because real trees are never one flat colour. White is non negotiable for mixing and for highlights. A small amount of black helps older kids explore shade without turning everything muddy. Glitter is optional, but honestly, it is Christmas!
The Making
Start with paint! Broad strokes and patterns and blocks of colour. While the paint is still wet, sprinkle on glitter or sparkles so they really stick.
Once the trees are dry enough to handle it's time to decorate (just like the real thing!). Wire gets wrapped and bent. Beads slide on. Stars get added to the top. This is a great moment to talk about balance and structure so that if something tips, kids adjust. If it leans, they problem solve.
Artist Study: Paul Klee
Paul Klee was a Swiss artist working in the early 1900s. He returned to trees again and again throughout his work, but never as something to copy or get “right.” His trees are built slowly through colour, pattern, and repeated marks. Nature was a huge influence for him, especially gardens, landscapes, and trees.
What’s interesting for kids is that Klee wasn’t painting leaves or branches. He was building a structure through layers. Colour next to colour. Shape stacked on shape. Texture doing the work.
It’s a great reminder that a tree doesn’t need to look realistic to feel complete! It can be abstract, decorative, messy, joyful, and bold. Exactly like the ones that start to appear when kids are given time, colour, and permission to experiment.
Materials
Cardboard yarn cones or thick cardboard for cut out trees
Poster paint or paint sticks
White paint for mixing and highlights
Optional black paint for shade
Brushes, sponges, rollers
Glitter
Florist wire
Beads
Cardstock for stars
Scissors
Hot glue for attaching stars and wire (optional)
Gallery
Back to Top
Spin Art Decorations
Let the movement do the hard work.
Bookmark
Painting & Drawing
The Set Up
Start with wooden discs or coasters. These are the perfect size and weight for spinning, and they take paint beautifully. Before you begin, decide how the decorations will hang.
If you have access to a drill, you can pre-drill a small hole near the edge of each disc. This makes threading ribbon later quick and tidy. If not, prepare looped ribbons instead. Cut short lengths of ribbon and glue the ends together to form a loop. Hot glue works best here. Set these aside so they’re ready once the spinning is finished.
You’ll also want somewhere to hang the decorations while they dry. A clothes rack, washing line, hooks along a wall, or even a few pegs clipped to a rail all work well. Having this ready makes the transition from making to displaying much easier.
Lay out paints with good flow, brushes or squeeze bottles, and drop sheets. This is a joyful, splashy process and it likes a bit of space!
The Making
Spin, drip, layer, repeat. Let the paint move and do its thing. Once the discs are finished, place them flat and give them proper drying time before handling.
When they’re dry, it’s time to finish them off.
If your discs have holes, thread ribbon or string straight through and tie a knot.
If you’ve made looped ribbons, use another generous blob of hot glue to attach the loop to the back of the disc. Press and hold until secure.
Hang the decorations up straight away. Seeing them spin gently and catch the light is part of the magic, and it gives the whole process a very satisfying ending.
Variations
Sprinkle on glitter after the final spin so it sits on top.
Use larger discs for a more dramatic result.
Materials
Plywood discs or coasters
Squeeze paints, metallics, glitter paint or poster paint
Salad spinners
Ribbon or string for hanging
Glitter (optional)
Back to Top
Spin Art Decorations
Let the movement do the hard work.
Bookmark
Painting & Drawing
The Set Up
Start with wooden discs or coasters. These are the perfect size and weight for spinning, and they take paint beautifully. Before you begin, decide how the decorations will hang.
If you have access to a drill, you can pre-drill a small hole near the edge of each disc. This makes threading ribbon later quick and tidy. If not, prepare looped ribbons instead. Cut short lengths of ribbon and glue the ends together to form a loop. Hot glue works best here. Set these aside so they’re ready once the spinning is finished.
You’ll also want somewhere to hang the decorations while they dry. A clothes rack, washing line, hooks along a wall, or even a few pegs clipped to a rail all work well. Having this ready makes the transition from making to displaying much easier.
Lay out paints with good flow, brushes or squeeze bottles, and drop sheets. This is a joyful, splashy process and it likes a bit of space!
The Making
Spin, drip, layer, repeat. Let the paint move and do its thing. Once the discs are finished, place them flat and give them proper drying time before handling.
When they’re dry, it’s time to finish them off.
If your discs have holes, thread ribbon or string straight through and tie a knot.
If you’ve made looped ribbons, use another generous blob of hot glue to attach the loop to the back of the disc. Press and hold until secure.
Hang the decorations up straight away. Seeing them spin gently and catch the light is part of the magic, and it gives the whole process a very satisfying ending.
Variations
Sprinkle on glitter after the final spin so it sits on top.
Use larger discs for a more dramatic result.
Materials
Plywood discs or coasters
Squeeze paints, metallics, glitter paint or poster paint
Salad spinners
Ribbon or string for hanging
Glitter (optional)
Back to Top
Spin Art Decorations
Let the movement do the hard work.
Bookmark
Painting & Drawing
The Set Up
Start with wooden discs or coasters. These are the perfect size and weight for spinning, and they take paint beautifully. Before you begin, decide how the decorations will hang.
If you have access to a drill, you can pre-drill a small hole near the edge of each disc. This makes threading ribbon later quick and tidy. If not, prepare looped ribbons instead. Cut short lengths of ribbon and glue the ends together to form a loop. Hot glue works best here. Set these aside so they’re ready once the spinning is finished.
You’ll also want somewhere to hang the decorations while they dry. A clothes rack, washing line, hooks along a wall, or even a few pegs clipped to a rail all work well. Having this ready makes the transition from making to displaying much easier.
Lay out paints with good flow, brushes or squeeze bottles, and drop sheets. This is a joyful, splashy process and it likes a bit of space!
The Making
Spin, drip, layer, repeat. Let the paint move and do its thing. Once the discs are finished, place them flat and give them proper drying time before handling.
When they’re dry, it’s time to finish them off.
If your discs have holes, thread ribbon or string straight through and tie a knot.
If you’ve made looped ribbons, use another generous blob of hot glue to attach the loop to the back of the disc. Press and hold until secure.
Hang the decorations up straight away. Seeing them spin gently and catch the light is part of the magic, and it gives the whole process a very satisfying ending.
Variations
Sprinkle on glitter after the final spin so it sits on top.
Use larger discs for a more dramatic result.
Materials
Plywood discs or coasters
Squeeze paints, metallics, glitter paint or poster paint
Salad spinners
Ribbon or string for hanging
Glitter (optional)
Back to Top
Yarn Wrapped Ornaments
Hanging Holiday Art!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
Start with sturdy cardboard shapes. Stars, trees, circles, candy canes. Keep them bold and uncomplicated so the wrapping feels rhythmic, not fiddly.
Paint sticks are optional but brilliant here. A quick layer of colour underneath means any gaps in the yarn still look great and it helps kids commit to wrapping without worrying about “coverage”.
Cut a small notch in the edge of each shape to anchor the yarn, or tape the starting end on the back.
Add a small finishing tray too. Buttons, beads, sequins, bells. Not lots, just enough. Easier said than done!
Smudge Tip
Pre cut your chosen colours of wool / yarn into manageable lengths. About arm length is perfect because it's long enough to wrap, short enough to avoid tangles (and the inevitable frustration).
The Making
Start wrapping! Around, across, diagonally, back again. This is pattern making without needing to “know” pattern. To change colours, tuck the yarn end under a few wraps on the back and begin again. Tape is fine too, especially for younger kids. This is not a knot competition.
If someone gets stuck in perfection mode, give them one simple nudge: choose a rule for one minute only. Wrap in one direction. Or wrap only in X shapes. Then break the rule and see what happens. Weaving in some buttons and beads is also a gorgeous option.
Once it feels finished, add a hanging loop. Either tie a loop directly around a section of wrapping, or tape a loop to the back and secure it with a final wrap of yarn.
Why We Love It
This one is sneaky. It looks simple, but it’s packed with skills!
It builds hand strength and coordination. It encourages planning and persistence. It gives kids a calming, repetitive rhythm, plus a big payoff at the end because it becomes something they can hang, gift, or keep.
Variations
Swap yarn for ribbon, fabric strips, twine, metallic thread
Make mini versions as gift toppers or tags
Turn it into a group garland by tying everyone’s ornaments onto one long string
Materials
• Cardboard shapes
• Scissors (or craft knife for adult prep)
• Paint sticks (optional for base colour)
• Yarn (a small curated palette plus one textured option)
• Tape or notches for anchoring
• String or extra yarn for hanging loops
• Buttons, beads, bells, sequins
• PVA glue (optional for heavy add ons)
Back to Top
Yarn Wrapped Ornaments
Hanging Holiday Art!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
Start with sturdy cardboard shapes. Stars, trees, circles, candy canes. Keep them bold and uncomplicated so the wrapping feels rhythmic, not fiddly.
Paint sticks are optional but brilliant here. A quick layer of colour underneath means any gaps in the yarn still look great and it helps kids commit to wrapping without worrying about “coverage”.
Cut a small notch in the edge of each shape to anchor the yarn, or tape the starting end on the back.
Add a small finishing tray too. Buttons, beads, sequins, bells. Not lots, just enough. Easier said than done!
Smudge Tip
Pre cut your chosen colours of wool / yarn into manageable lengths. About arm length is perfect because it's long enough to wrap, short enough to avoid tangles (and the inevitable frustration).
The Making
Start wrapping! Around, across, diagonally, back again. This is pattern making without needing to “know” pattern. To change colours, tuck the yarn end under a few wraps on the back and begin again. Tape is fine too, especially for younger kids. This is not a knot competition.
If someone gets stuck in perfection mode, give them one simple nudge: choose a rule for one minute only. Wrap in one direction. Or wrap only in X shapes. Then break the rule and see what happens. Weaving in some buttons and beads is also a gorgeous option.
Once it feels finished, add a hanging loop. Either tie a loop directly around a section of wrapping, or tape a loop to the back and secure it with a final wrap of yarn.
Why We Love It
This one is sneaky. It looks simple, but it’s packed with skills!
It builds hand strength and coordination. It encourages planning and persistence. It gives kids a calming, repetitive rhythm, plus a big payoff at the end because it becomes something they can hang, gift, or keep.
Variations
Swap yarn for ribbon, fabric strips, twine, metallic thread
Make mini versions as gift toppers or tags
Turn it into a group garland by tying everyone’s ornaments onto one long string
Materials
• Cardboard shapes
• Scissors (or craft knife for adult prep)
• Paint sticks (optional for base colour)
• Yarn (a small curated palette plus one textured option)
• Tape or notches for anchoring
• String or extra yarn for hanging loops
• Buttons, beads, bells, sequins
• PVA glue (optional for heavy add ons)
Back to Top
Yarn Wrapped Ornaments
Hanging Holiday Art!
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
Start with sturdy cardboard shapes. Stars, trees, circles, candy canes. Keep them bold and uncomplicated so the wrapping feels rhythmic, not fiddly.
Paint sticks are optional but brilliant here. A quick layer of colour underneath means any gaps in the yarn still look great and it helps kids commit to wrapping without worrying about “coverage”.
Cut a small notch in the edge of each shape to anchor the yarn, or tape the starting end on the back.
Add a small finishing tray too. Buttons, beads, sequins, bells. Not lots, just enough. Easier said than done!
Smudge Tip
Pre cut your chosen colours of wool / yarn into manageable lengths. About arm length is perfect because it's long enough to wrap, short enough to avoid tangles (and the inevitable frustration).
The Making
Start wrapping! Around, across, diagonally, back again. This is pattern making without needing to “know” pattern. To change colours, tuck the yarn end under a few wraps on the back and begin again. Tape is fine too, especially for younger kids. This is not a knot competition.
If someone gets stuck in perfection mode, give them one simple nudge: choose a rule for one minute only. Wrap in one direction. Or wrap only in X shapes. Then break the rule and see what happens. Weaving in some buttons and beads is also a gorgeous option.
Once it feels finished, add a hanging loop. Either tie a loop directly around a section of wrapping, or tape a loop to the back and secure it with a final wrap of yarn.
Why We Love It
This one is sneaky. It looks simple, but it’s packed with skills!
It builds hand strength and coordination. It encourages planning and persistence. It gives kids a calming, repetitive rhythm, plus a big payoff at the end because it becomes something they can hang, gift, or keep.
Variations
Swap yarn for ribbon, fabric strips, twine, metallic thread
Make mini versions as gift toppers or tags
Turn it into a group garland by tying everyone’s ornaments onto one long string
Materials
• Cardboard shapes
• Scissors (or craft knife for adult prep)
• Paint sticks (optional for base colour)
• Yarn (a small curated palette plus one textured option)
• Tape or notches for anchoring
• String or extra yarn for hanging loops
• Buttons, beads, bells, sequins
• PVA glue (optional for heavy add ons)
Back to Top
