Easy and Fun Simple Christmas Crafts for Kids

Last year, I remember sitting at the kitchen table with glitter everywhere — on the floor, in my hair, even on the cat — trying to keep my little ones entertained while making some simple Christmas crafts for kids. You know that mix of chaos and magic that happens when kids get their hands on glue and colored paper? Yeah, that. But honestly, it turned into one of my favorite holiday memories. There’s just something so heartwarming about seeing kids create something with their own hands — crooked stars, lopsided snowmen, and all. If you’ve ever wished for fun, mess-friendly craft ideas that don’t require fancy supplies (or a ton of patience), you’re in the right place. I’ll share easy, creative projects that keep kids busy, happy, and proud of their little masterpieces. Ready to make your holidays a bit more joyful — and maybe just a little sparkly too?

Simple Christmas Crafts for Kids

Get into the holiday spirit with fun and easy Christmas crafts for kids! These simple projects spark creativity, spread joy, and make wonderful handmade decorations or gifts.

Paper Plate Santa

Oh, the good old paper plate crafts — they never disappoint! I’ve made this one with my niece last Christmas, and we couldn’t stop giggling at how each Santa looked different. You just grab a paper plate, some cotton balls for the beard, a red triangle for the hat, and a little pink circle for the face. I like to use googly eyes because they give Santa a funny little personality. Honestly, the best part is watching kids decide how much cotton fluff to use — some go full-on “Santa in a snowstorm,” and others keep it neat and tidy. Either way, it’s adorable.
What I’ve learned is that letting kids take creative control makes this craft extra special. Don’t worry about perfection — crooked hats and uneven beards make each Santa unique. To be fair, it’s one of those crafts that’s simple, fun, and just screams Christmas spirit without too much mess.

Handprint Christmas Tree

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about handprint crafts — they freeze little moments in time. I remember making a handprint Christmas tree with my son when he was four, and now that tiny green print still hangs on our wall every December. You just need green paint, paper, and those tiny hands ready for a mess. Stack handprints in a triangle shape, add pom-poms or stickers for ornaments, and maybe a yellow star on top.
In my opinion, the best part is when kids mix shades of green or overlap hands — it gives the tree this cute layered look. Honestly, it’s not about perfect prints; it’s about the giggles when paint smudges on noses or elbows. I always write the year on the bottom, too — because years later, you’ll look at it and think, “Wow, their hands were that small?” It’s sentimental, simple, and truly timeless.

Popsicle Stick Snowflakes

I’ve always loved crafts that look way fancier than they actually are — and popsicle stick snowflakes are exactly that. You can make them with just glue, paint, and glitter, yet they end up looking store-bought if you squint. I usually glue three or four sticks into a snowflake shape and then let the kids go wild decorating them with silver paint and sparkles.
To be fair, this one gets messy fast — glitter everywhere! But that’s half the fun, right? I hang them in the window afterward, and when sunlight hits, they sparkle beautifully. Sometimes, I even turn them into ornaments with a bit of ribbon. The trick I’ve found is to let each child have their own color theme — it keeps arguments to a minimum and the results look surprisingly coordinated. It’s simple, sparkly, and feels like magic in popsicle form.

Cotton Ball Snowman

This one always makes me smile because it’s so delightfully fluffy. A cotton ball snowman is as simple as it sounds — glue cotton balls onto paper or cardboard to form three snowman circles, and then add paper hats, scarves, and buttons. My daughter once insisted our snowman needed “pink sunglasses,” and honestly, it was the best creative twist ever.
What I love about this craft is that it’s perfect for all ages — toddlers just love the soft texture, while older kids get into accessorizing. I usually keep a little tray of bits and pieces — sequins, yarn, googly eyes — and let the kids’ imagination run wild. It’s not neat or fancy, but when you see that lumpy snowman smiling back, it feels perfectly imperfect. Plus, cleanup’s easy — just a few cotton fluffs to chase around afterward.

Reindeer Finger Puppets

Now, this one’s a total crowd-pleaser. Reindeer finger puppets are perfect for storytelling time, and they’re ridiculously cute. All you need is brown paper, markers, and a bit of glue. I trace little reindeer heads, cut them out, and then attach two paper loops for fingers — instant puppet! The best part? Kids can give them names and personalities.
I remember one Christmas, my niece made a reindeer named “Bob the Dancer” who apparently didn’t like flying — we laughed so hard. Honestly, these tiny puppets bring so much joy because they’re interactive. You can even stage mini puppet shows after crafting, which keeps the fun going. In my opinion, crafts that double as toys are always a win — they’re simple, entertaining, and make for great holiday memories.

Paper Garland Chain

If you’ve never made paper chains at Christmas, you’re missing out on a cozy old-school tradition. I used to make miles of these as a kid with my cousins — our goal was always to reach the living room wall before bedtime. Just cut colored paper strips, glue or tape the ends to form rings, and loop them together.
Honestly, it’s so easy, but it fills the room with nostalgia. I like to mix red, green, and gold paper, but you can go wild with patterns or even add messages on each link. Sometimes I let the kids write what they’re thankful for — it makes the garland more meaningful. To be fair, it’s the simplest craft on this list but also one of the most satisfying. It’s cheerful, low-effort, and instantly festive.

Ornament Painting

This one is messy — gloriously messy — but absolutely worth it. I always grab a pack of plain plastic ornaments and let the kids paint them however they like. Glitter paint, swirls, fingerprints — it’s chaos, but beautiful chaos. One year, my son painted his completely black and called it “Santa’s Night Sky.” I still hang it every year because it’s just so him.
What I’ve found is that kids take pride when they see their ornaments hanging on the tree. It gives them that “I made that!” moment that’s priceless. To be fair, if you’re doing this indoors, lay down newspaper because paint finds a way onto everything. But trust me — it’s one of the most rewarding holiday crafts.

Glitter Pinecones

There’s something magical about pinecones sprinkled with glitter — they remind me of sparkling winter mornings. Whenever I go on a nature walk, I grab a few pinecones to keep for crafts. The kids help me brush on glue and sprinkle glitter until they shimmer like mini Christmas trees.
Honestly, this one feels therapeutic — even I get caught up in how pretty they turn out. You can use them as table décor, hang them on the tree, or just pile them in a bowl. I once mixed gold and silver glitter, and it looked straight out of a store display. In my opinion, it’s one of those crafts that bring outdoorsy charm into your home.

Button Christmas Tree Art

If you’ve got a jar of random buttons (and who doesn’t?), this craft is perfect. I glue green buttons in a triangle shape on cardstock to make a Christmas tree, then add a few colorful ones as ornaments. The kids love sorting through buttons and picking their favorites — it’s like treasure hunting!
One time, my daughter found a heart-shaped button and declared it the tree topper. I mean, how cute is that? Honestly, it’s one of my go-to rainy day crafts in December. It’s calm, colorful, and a great way to sneak in some fine motor skill practice without kids realizing it. Plus, you can frame it afterward — instant homemade art!

Candy Cane Reindeer

This one’s just too adorable to resist. You grab a candy cane, twist on some brown pipe cleaners for antlers, add googly eyes, and a little red pom-pom nose. Suddenly, you’ve got a reindeer that’s both cute and edible! I’ve given these out as little treats, and they’re always a hit.
To be fair, the hardest part is not eating the candy cane before finishing the craft. I usually make extras just in case. It’s quick, inexpensive, and great for classroom activities or party favors. Honestly, it’s crafts like these that remind me how fun simple creativity can be.

Paper Cup Angels

Paper cup angels are so charming and easy. You flip a paper cup upside down, glue on a paper circle face, add wings, and sprinkle some glitter or tinsel for a halo. I love how peaceful they look sitting on the mantel.
I remember making these one quiet evening while Christmas carols played in the background — it felt so relaxing. The kids gave each angel a name and personality (one was “Singing Sarah” because she wouldn’t stop smiling). Honestly, this craft just feels magical — a sweet reminder of the softer side of Christmas.

Holiday Wreath Craft

There’s something satisfying about making your own wreath. I usually start with a paper plate ring as the base and let the kids glue on green tissue paper, pom-poms, and ribbons. It’s amazing how creative they get — one year, my son added a toy car to his wreath because “it needed a delivery truck.”
In my opinion, homemade wreaths have so much more charm than store-bought ones. They’re imperfect, colorful, and full of personality. I hang ours proudly on the door every year. Plus, this craft keeps kids busy for a good half hour — a Christmas miracle in itself!

Mason Jar Candle Holder

This one feels cozy and grown-up but still kid-friendly. You take an empty mason jar, brush it with glue, and sprinkle glitter or add tissue paper pieces. Pop in a battery tea light, and it glows beautifully. I’ve made a bunch of these for gifts — they look fancy but cost almost nothing.
To be fair, the key is using clear glue for that frosty, magical effect. My kids like to draw little snowflakes with a marker before decorating. Honestly, when they’re all lit up in the evening, it feels like you’ve bottled Christmas light.

DIY Christmas Cards

Making cards is a must-do tradition in our house. I set out colored paper, stickers, ribbons, and markers, and we go wild designing. Some cards are heartfelt, others just plain funny — like the one my daughter made with Santa riding a unicorn.
What I love most is how personal handmade cards feel. We always send one to Grandma, and she treasures them more than any store-bought one. Honestly, it’s such a lovely way to slow down and share creativity during the season.

Sock Snowmen

I swear, sock snowmen are the cutest way to recycle old socks. You just fill one with rice, tie it off, and decorate with buttons, fabric scraps, and a mini hat from the sock’s top. They turn out ridiculously adorable every time.
My son once made one with a superhero cape — I couldn’t stop laughing. In my opinion, these make great little gifts too. They’re soft, squishy, and surprisingly sturdy. Plus, kids love naming them — we’ve got “Frosty Jr.” sitting on our shelf right now. Honestly, it’s the perfect end to a fun crafting day.

Safety Tips for Parents

Keeping craft time safe is just as important as making it fun. With a few simple precautions, you can let kids enjoy creating without any worries.

• Supervise kids while using scissors or hot glue. Always stay nearby when tools or heat are involved to prevent accidents.

• Choose non-toxic and child-safe materials. Check labels to ensure paints, glues, and markers are safe for little hands.

• Cover the craft area to avoid mess. Use old newspapers, tablecloths, or mats to make cleanup quick and easy.

• Store small items safely away from toddlers. Beads, buttons, and sequins can be choking hazards, so keep them out of reach when not in use.

FAQ

What age group can do these Christmas crafts?

Most of these crafts are perfect for kids aged 3 and up. Younger children may need a little help from parents or older siblings.

What materials do I need for these crafts?

You’ll need basic supplies like paper, glue, scissors, markers, cotton balls, and glitter. Most items are easy to find at home or in any craft store.

Can I use recycled materials for these crafts?

Yes! Recycled paper, jars, and old decorations make great eco-friendly options and add a creative twist to each project.

How can I keep craft time mess-free?

Lay down newspaper or a plastic cover on your table, and keep wet wipes or a damp cloth handy for quick cleanups.