Valentine’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating love and appreciation, making it the perfect time for heartfelt expressions of affection. Handprint crafts for Valentine’s Day offer a unique and personal way to show love, especially for children and families. These crafts carry a sentimental value, turning simple handprints into lasting memories that can be cherished for years to come.
The charm of handprint crafts lies in their ability to create something meaningful with just a few materials, making them an ideal choice for teachers, parents, and caregivers. Not only do they serve as a creative activity for children, but they also provide an opportunity to make memories together. Whether it’s a handprint card, a wall decoration, or a keepsake gift, handprint crafts are a beautiful and timeless way to celebrate love on Valentine’s Day.
Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day
Handprint crafts are a wonderful and personal way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, especially for children. Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day use the shape of a handprint to create meaningful, heartfelt gifts or decorations. Handprint crafts can be turned into greeting cards, love-themed artwork, or even personalized gifts like framed prints or keychains. The activity allows for creativity while also making lasting memories, as each handprint is unique to the person who made it. Whether it’s using paint, markers, or other materials, handprint crafts offer a simple and sentimental way to spread love on Valentine’s Day.
Handprint Valentine’s Day Flowers
A handprint turned into a flower creates a colorful and meaningful Valentine’s Day craft that can be gifted or displayed.
Materials Used:
- Construction paper (red, pink, green)
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers or crayons
Steps:
- Trace and cut out your child’s handprints on red or pink construction paper to make the petals of the flower.
- Cut out a circle for the flower’s center from yellow or green construction paper.
- Glue the handprints around the circle to form a flower shape.
- Cut a green stem and leaves from construction paper and glue them to the flower.
- Write a loving message such as “You’re My Favorite Flower” at the bottom of the page.
Handprint Heart Tree Craft
A lovely way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is by creating a handprint heart tree. This craft symbolizes love and unity, making it perfect for a classroom or family activity.
Materials Used:
- Construction paper (green, red, and brown)
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers or crayons
- Black pen
Steps:
- Start by drawing a large tree trunk on a piece of brown construction paper.
- Use your child’s handprint in green paper for the leaves of the tree. Cut out several handprints.
- In red construction paper, cut out small hearts. Write a special Valentine’s message or draw doodles on each heart.
- Glue the handprints on top of the tree trunk as the foliage.
- Attach the hearts to the branches or surrounding areas.
- Add additional details with markers or crayons to decorate the tree further.
- Let it dry completely before displaying.
Love Bug Handprint Craft
Love bugs are an adorable way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. These cute creatures will surely bring smiles to anyone who sees them.
Materials Used:
- Red, black, and white construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue stick
- Markers
- Wiggle eyes (optional)
Steps:
- Have your child place their hand on a piece of red paper and trace around it.
- Cut out the handprint to form the wings of the love bug.
- Cut a small oval shape for the body of the bug from black construction paper.
- Glue the black oval in the center of the handprint.
- Use white paper to cut out small circles for the bug’s eyes, and glue them onto the black body.
- Add two antennae from black paper or pipe cleaners.
- Use markers to draw a smile and additional features.
- Let the glue dry, and your love bug is ready to display!
Handprint Valentine’s Day Card
Create a memorable, personalized Valentine’s Day card using handprints that make it extra special.
Materials Used:
- Blank card or white cardstock
- Red or pink paint
- Markers or crayons
- Glitter (optional)
Steps:
- Start by folding a piece of cardstock to create a card.
- Dip your child’s hand in red or pink paint, making sure it’s fully covered.
- Press the painted hand onto the front of the card, leaving an imprint.
- Once the print dries, use markers or crayons to write “Happy Valentine’s Day” or a personal message.
- Decorate with glitter for a festive touch.
- Allow the card to dry before giving it to a loved one.
Heart Shaped Handprint
This craft makes a beautiful keepsake for parents or teachers, using handprints to create a heart shape.
Materials Used:
- Red and pink paint
- White construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers
Steps:
- Have your child dip their hands in red or pink paint and press them on the paper to form the shape of a heart.
- Allow the handprint to dry.
- Once the handprint is dry, cut out the handprints if needed to adjust their shape.
- Arrange the handprints to form a heart on the white paper.
- Glue them into place and add any additional details like messages or drawings using markers.
- Let it dry and display it as a loving reminder of Valentine’s Day.
Handprint Rose
A beautiful handprint rose can be a creative way to present a Valentine’s Day bouquet.
Materials Used:
- Red or pink paint
- Green paper for stems
- Glue
- Scissors
Steps:
- Begin by painting your child’s hand in red or pink paint.
- Press the hand onto a piece of white paper to create the petals of the rose.
- Once the print dries, cut out a long green strip of paper for the stem and smaller green pieces for the leaves.
- Glue the stem at the bottom of the handprint and the leaves around it.
- Add a greeting or a personal message on the bottom to complete the flower.
Handprint Lovebirds
Create adorable lovebirds using handprints to celebrate the love and affection of Valentine’s Day.
Materials Used:
- Colored paper (red, yellow, blue, etc.)
- Glue
- Scissors
- Markers
- Googly eyes
Steps:
- Start by painting your child’s hand in yellow or any color of choice.
- Press the handprint onto the paper with fingers facing outward. This will serve as the wings of the birds.
- Cut out a small oval shape from red or blue paper for the bird’s body and attach it to the center of the handprint.
- Add eyes using googly eyes or draw them with a marker.
- Use a small piece of paper to cut out the beak and attach it to the face of the bird.
- Draw additional features like a heart or branches to complete the scene.
Handprint Valentine’s Bookmark
A practical and loving craft idea, this handprint bookmark can be used to mark the pages of a book.
Materials Used:
- Cardstock or thick paper
- Markers, crayons, or paint
- Ribbon (optional)
Steps:
- Begin by cutting a strip of cardstock into a long rectangle shape for the bookmark.
- Use red or pink paint to stamp a handprint on the top portion of the bookmark.
- Once dry, add your child’s name or a Valentine’s message with markers.
- For extra decoration, tie a small ribbon through the top hole of the bookmark.
- Allow everything to dry before using it as a cute gift.
Handprint Butterfly
A colorful and fun craft for Valentine’s Day is the handprint butterfly. It symbolizes transformation and beauty.
Materials Used:
- Pink, red, purple, or other pastel colors of paint
- Construction paper (black for the body)
- Glue
- Scissors
Steps:
- Start by painting your child’s hands in bright colors such as pink or purple.
- Press the painted hands on a sheet of paper with fingers spread out. This forms the wings of the butterfly.
- Allow the handprint to dry before cutting out the butterfly shape.
- Cut a long black strip of paper for the body of the butterfly and glue it to the center of the handprint.
- Optionally, you can draw or glue small antennae on top of the butterfly.
- Let everything dry completely before displaying.
Handprint Heart Garland Art
Decorating for Valentine’s Day can be fun with a handprint heart garland that adds love and color to any space.
Materials Used:
- Red, pink, and white construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Yarn or string
Steps:
- Start by cutting out several heart shapes from red, pink, and white construction paper.
- Trace your child’s hand on paper and cut out the handprints.
- Glue the heart and handprint together in an alternating fashion, creating a pattern.
- Once each piece is glued, string the hearts and handprints together using yarn or string.
- Hang the garland around the house to spread the Valentine’s Day love.
Handprint Love Notes
Create heartfelt love notes using handprints to give to friends or family members.
Materials Used:
- White or colored paper
- Red or pink paint
- Markers
- Ribbon (optional)
Steps:
- Start by painting your child’s hand in red or pink paint.
- Press the hand onto a piece of paper to create the handprint shape.
- Once dry, use markers to write a special Valentine’s message inside or around the handprint.
- Optionally, tie a small ribbon at the top of the note for added flair.
- Hand the love note to someone special.
Handprint Valentine’s Crown
This is a fun, wearable craft that will make anyone feel like royalty on Valentine’s Day.
Materials Used:
- Red, pink, or purple construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Glitter or markers
Steps:
- Start by measuring the size of your child’s head to create a crown base.
- Cut out a long strip of construction paper for the base of the crown.
- Have your child dip their hands in pink or red paint and stamp them onto another piece of paper.
- Cut out the handprints and glue them onto the crown base, alternating with glitter or hearts.
- Once everything is dry, wrap the crown around your child’s head and secure it.
Handprint Love Letter
Create a personalized love letter to someone special using a handprint.
Materials Used:
- Red or pink construction paper
- Markers
- Glue
Steps:
- Begin by painting your child’s hand with red or pink paint.
- Press the hand on a piece of white or colored paper.
- Write a heartfelt message or Valentine’s note around the handprint using markers.
- Optionally, add decorations like hearts, flowers, or other doodles.
- Let the letter dry before delivering it as a sweet surprise
Handprint Heart Bookmark
A fun and functional craft, this handprint bookmark is perfect for a Valentine’s Day gift to a loved one who enjoys reading.
Materials Used:
- Cardstock or thick paper
- Red, pink, or purple paint
- Scissors
- Markers
Steps:
- Cut a long rectangular shape out of cardstock to form the base of the bookmark.
- Paint your child’s hand in red or pink paint and press it on the top of the bookmark.
- Once the handprint dries, cut out the shape to fit the size of the bookmark.
- Use markers to add decorative details like hearts or a Valentine’s Day message.
- To finish, punch a hole at the top and tie a ribbon through it for a decorative touch.
Handprint Love Tree (with hearts)
This love tree uses handprints as leaves to create a tree full of love for Valentine’s Day. It can serve as a beautiful decoration or keepsake.
Materials Used:
- Construction paper (brown for the trunk and green/pink/red for the handprints)
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers
Steps:
- Start by cutting out a tree trunk and branches from brown construction paper.
- Have your child place their hand on a piece of red or pink paper and trace around it to create the handprints.
- Cut out the handprint shapes and glue them around the tree to form the leaves.
- Add small heart cutouts in between the handprint leaves for a loving touch.
- Use markers to write a loving message like “Love Grows Here” at the bottom of the tree.
Handprint Cupcake Card
This card is a fun way to combine a handprint and a cupcake design, making it a sweet Valentine’s Day card.
Materials Used:
- White cardstock or colored paper
- Paint (red, pink, or purple)
- Markers or crayons
- Glitter (optional)
Steps:
- Fold the cardstock in half to create a card.
- Paint your child’s hand in pink or red paint, then press it onto the card with the fingers spread out to form the top of the cupcake.
- Use markers to add the cupcake wrapper underneath the handprint, drawing in lines to create texture.
- Add details like hearts, sprinkles, or other decorations with markers or glitter.
- Write a Valentine’s message inside the card, such as “You’re Sweet as a Cupcake!”
Handprint Heart Lanterns
These glowing handprint lanterns are a fun and festive way to light up the room with love.
Materials Used:
- Red, pink, or white construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
- LED candle or battery-operated light
- Markers or crayons
Steps:
- Cut a strip of construction paper to the desired height of your lantern.
- Have your child place their hand on a piece of red or pink paper and trace around it.
- Cut out the handprint shape and glue it to the lantern strip.
- Wrap the strip into a cylindrical shape and secure the ends with glue or tape.
- Place a battery-operated LED light or candle inside the lantern for a soft glow.
- Use markers to add additional hearts or designs to the lantern.
- Enjoy the lanterns as a beautiful light source for your Valentine’s Day celebration.
Handprint Love Bug Cards
These sweet little love bug cards are a perfect way to spread Valentine’s Day cheer with a personal touch.
Materials Used:
- Construction paper (red, black, pink)
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers
- Googly eyes
Steps:
- Cut out a heart from red or pink paper to form the body of the love bug.
- Trace your child’s hand on black or red paper and cut it out to form the love bug’s wings.
- Glue the wings onto the heart-shaped body.
- Add googly eyes to the top of the heart and draw a smiling face.
- Write a sweet Valentine’s Day message inside the card, such as “You’re My Love Bug!”
Handprint Valentines Day Puzzle
A creative way to use handprints for fun and a little challenge, creating a personalized Valentine’s Day puzzle is a great gift idea.
Materials Used:
- Cardstock or sturdy paper
- Red, pink, or purple paint
- Scissors
- Glue
Steps:
- Paint your child’s hand in red or pink paint and press it onto a piece of cardstock.
- Once the handprint dries, use scissors to cut it into puzzle pieces.
- Mix up the pieces and invite your child to reassemble the puzzle.
- Decorate the pieces with hearts or write a special message on each piece.
- Once complete, the puzzle can be a fun keepsake or gift.
Handprint Valentine’s Day Flag
This fun flag can be used to decorate the house or yard for Valentine’s Day, displaying love and affection in a creative way.
Materials Used:
- Fabric or sturdy paper (for the flag)
- Red, pink, and white paint
- Markers
- Scissors
Steps:
- Cut a rectangular piece of fabric or paper to create the flag.
- Paint your child’s hand in red or pink paint, then press it onto the fabric in the shape of hearts or other patterns.
- Allow the prints to dry.
- Add additional designs such as hearts, stars, or written messages using markers.
- Hang the flag on a stick or from the wall to create a festive atmosphere.
21. Handprint Valentine’s Day Frame
This beautiful handprint frame can hold a cherished photo, making it a perfect gift for grandparents or parents.
Materials Used:
- Craft frame (wood or cardboard)
- Paint (red, pink, purple)
- Glue
- Photo
- Scissors
Steps:
- Begin by painting the frame in red or pink.
- Have your child dip their hands in paint and press them on the frame to form handprints around the edges.
- Let the paint dry.
- Once dry, glue a photo in the center of the frame.
- Add any decorative touches like glitter, hearts, or a loving message.
- Give the handprint frame as a Valentine’s gift.
22. Handprint Valentine’s Day Banner
Create a festive banner for your home by using handprints to make heart shapes, spelling out “Love” or “Be Mine.”
Materials Used:
- Construction paper (red, pink, white)
- String or ribbon
- Glue
- Scissors
- Markers
Steps:
- Cut out heart shapes from red, pink, and white construction paper.
- Have your child make handprints on some of the hearts using paint or markers.
- Write letters like “L,” “O,” “V,” and “E” on each heart.
- Attach the hearts to a string or ribbon, spacing them out evenly.
- Hang the banner in a special place for a festive Valentine’s Day decoration.
23. Handprint Owl Love Cards
These adorable handprint owls make for a unique Valentine’s Day card that is sure to be cherished.
Materials Used:
- Construction paper (brown, orange, pink, white)
- Googly eyes
- Glue
- Scissors
- Markers
Steps:
- Trace and cut your child’s handprint on brown construction paper.
- Cut out a smaller circle for the owl’s body and glue it in the center of the handprint.
- Attach googly eyes and draw a small orange beak and feet for the owl.
- Add hearts or flowers around the owl to give it a Valentine’s touch.
- Write a sweet note or quote on the front of the card, such as “You’re Owl-ways Loved!”
24. Handprint Heart Tree Painting
A creative and visually stunning way to use handprints to form the leaves of a tree, this painting is a memorable keepsake.
Materials Used:
- Canvas or thick paper
- Red, pink, purple, and brown paint
- Markers
- Brushes
Steps:
- Paint the tree trunk with brown paint on a canvas or large piece of paper.
- Dip your child’s hand in red, pink, or purple paint and press it onto the paper to form the tree’s foliage in the shape of hearts.
- Continue stamping handprints around the tree until you are satisfied with the fullness of the “leaves.”
- Use markers to add details like birds, flowers, or messages on the canvas.
- Allow it to dry completely before displaying.
25. Handprint Valentine’s Day Paper Plate
Turn a simple paper plate into a loving Valentine’s Day decoration by using handprints to create a heart design.
Materials Used:
- Paper plate
- Red, pink, and white construction paper
- Glue
- Markers
Steps:
- Use a paper plate as the base for this craft.
- Cut handprints out of red, pink, and white construction paper.
- Arrange the handprints in a heart shape in the center of the paper plate.
- Glue the handprints onto the plate.
- Add a personal message like “You’re My Valentine” with markers around the edge of the plate.
Tips for Incorporating Favorite Love Quotes or Personal Messages
Expressing love through meaningful quotes or personal messages adds a special touch to any occasion, whether it’s a romantic anniversary, a heartfelt letter, or a casual gift. These words can deepen connections and make moments unforgettable. Here are some creative ways to incorporate your favorite love quotes or heartfelt personal messages into your daily life or special events:
- Personalized Gifts
Add a love quote or a personal message to a custom gift, such as engraved jewelry, a framed photo, or a personalized book. This not only gives the gift extra sentimental value but also makes it uniquely meaningful. - Handwritten Letters
Nothing beats the charm of a handwritten love letter. Include your favorite love quotes or write a personal message that speaks directly from your heart. This timeless gesture will be cherished for years. - Greeting Cards
Whether for a birthday, anniversary, or “just because” note, love quotes and personal messages can elevate a greeting card. Choose a quote that resonates with your relationship or add a personal touch to make it feel truly special. - Social Media Posts
Share your favorite love quotes or your own messages on social media platforms. Pair them with a picture or video of you and your partner to create a public display of affection and appreciation. - Home Decor
Add some romance to your living space by framing your favorite love quotes and placing them in prominent areas around the house. It’s a simple way to keep the love alive in your everyday environment.
Ways to Encourage Creativity and Personalize Crafts
Crafting is a wonderful way to express individuality and creativity. Whether you’re working on a DIY project, making handmade gifts, or just experimenting with materials, finding ways to encourage creativity and personalize your crafts can make the experience even more rewarding. Personalizing crafts allows you to infuse your own style and flair, making each piece unique and meaningful. Here are some ways to spark creativity and personalize your craft projects:
1. Experiment with Different Materials
- Try using unconventional materials, such as fabric, recycled items, or natural elements like wood and stones.
- Mixing textures can provide new dimensions to your craft and open up unexpected creative possibilities.
2. Incorporate Personal Themes or Memories
- Think about your own experiences or interests and incorporate them into your designs. For example, create a scrapbook of cherished memories or design a piece that reflects your favorite hobbies.
- Adding personal symbols, quotes, or colors can help make your crafts more meaningful.
3. Explore Different Crafting Techniques
- Break away from traditional methods and explore new techniques such as hand lettering, embossing, or decoupage.
- Learn and experiment with different art styles like watercolor painting, mixed media, or abstract design to push your creative boundaries.
4. Use Customizable Templates or Stamps
- Many craft stores offer customizable stamps, stencils, and templates. These can be used as a base, and you can modify them to suit your personal style.
- Customize stamps or stencils with your initials, a favorite phrase, or patterns that reflect your personality.
FAQ
Can kids of all ages make Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day?
Yes! Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day are suitable for children of all ages. Younger kids may need help with stamping their hands, while older kids can take more control over the painting and decorating. It’s a fun activity that promotes creativity and bonding.
Can I make Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day even if I don’t have children?
Absolutely! Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day aren’t just for kids. You can create personalized crafts with handprints for friends, family, or even as a couple’s project. Handprints represent love and connection, so they are perfect for anyone to create meaningful gifts.
How do I clean up after doing Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day?
Clean-up can be easy:
- Wash hands immediately after using paint with soap and water.
- If the paint is on surfaces or clothes, clean them while it’s still wet.
- Use baby wipes or a damp cloth for quick cleaning of surfaces.
Can I use any type of paint for Handprint Crafts For Valentine’s Day?
While most types of washable paint are suitable, acrylic paints are often preferred for their vibrant colors and ability to last longer. Just ensure the paint is non-toxic, especially when crafting with young children.

Hi, I’m Victoria, an art and craft teacher at Newark City Schools, where I have the joy of working with middle school students to help them explore their creativity and develop their artistic talents. I believe that art is a powerful way for students to express themselves, and I strive to make every lesson a fun, engaging, and inspiring experience.
I created this website to share the art and craft projects, techniques, and resources that I use in my classroom, hoping to inspire both educators and young artists alike. Whether you’re a teacher looking for new ideas or a student eager to try something new, I’m excited to provide creative tools and projects that anyone can enjoy.
When I’m not in the classroom, I love experimenting with different art forms and learning new crafting techniques. My goal is to help others discover the joy of making things with their hands, and I hope my website serves as a space for everyone to explore their creative potential.