126 Fun & Easy Christmas Crafts for Kids They will Love

The holidays aren’t just about gifts under the tree — they’re about the memories we make together. And what better way to create lasting moments than with Christmas crafts for kids? Whether your little ones are toddlers exploring textures, preschoolers learning through play, or older kids ready to take on DIY projects, holiday crafting is a fun, screen-free way to celebrate the season.

In this blog post, you’ll find a complete guide to the best Christmas crafts for kids, organized into easy-to-browse sections so you can quickly find what fits your child’s age and interests. We’ll cover DIY Christmas crafts, age-specific ideas for toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners, creative handprint Christmas Crafts, eco-friendly toilet paper roll crafts, festive Christmas tree crafts, and convenient printable Christmas Crafts.

Each section highlights a handful of the most popular projects, with links to the full blog posts where you can explore even more creative ideas. This way, you can easily navigate between categories and pick the perfect craft for you.

Why Christmas Crafts Are Great for Kids

Christmas isn’t just about presents — it’s about connection, creativity, and joyful memories. That’s why Christmas crafts for kids are more than just seasonal activities; they offer lasting benefits that parents and teachers appreciate year after year.

Here’s why holiday crafting is so valuable:

• Boosts Creativity & Imagination: Kids get to experiment with colors, textures, and materials, turning simple supplies into festive treasures.
• Improves Fine Motor Skills: Cutting, gluing, threading, and painting help children strengthen hand-eye coordination while having fun.
• Encourages Family Bonding: Craft time brings families together, creating screen-free moments filled with laughter and teamwork.
• Great for Classrooms & Homeschooling: Teachers love Christmas crafts because they’re easy to adapt for groups and double as festive decorations.
• Creates Keepsakes & Traditions: Handprint ornaments, homemade cards, and paper crafts often become cherished mementos that families bring out year after year.

Christmas crafts are more than just fun activities — they’re opportunities to build skills, spark creativity, and make memories that last far beyond the holiday season.

DIY Christmas Crafts for Kids

When it comes to DIY Christmas crafts, the options are endless. From decorating trees and making Santas to crafting snowmen, ornaments, and festive wreaths, kids can dive into five fun subcategories:

• Christmas Tree Crafts,
• Santa & Reindeer Crafts,
• Snowman & Winter Crafts,
• Ornament & Keepsake Crafts,
• and Wreaths & Garland Crafts.

These DIY Christmas Crafts projects are hands-on, affordable, and perfect for sparking holiday creativity at home or in the classroom.

1. Paper Plate Christmas Trees

Turn an ordinary paper plate into a festive evergreen! Kids cut and paint the plate into a tree shape, then add sequins, pom-poms, or stickers for decorations.

Why kids love it: They get to design their very own Christmas tree, and no two look the same.

2. Cotton Ball Santa Beard Mask

With just some cardstock, glue, and fluffy cotton balls, children can create a silly Santa beard mask to wear during playtime.

Why kids love it: They adore pretending to be Santa and showing off their funny, fluffy beards.

3. Sparkly Popsicle Stick Snowflakes

Glue together popsicle sticks into star shapes, coat them with white paint, and sprinkle with glitter for a snowy effect.

Why kids love it: Watching their snowflakes shimmer in the light feels magical, and they make great window hangings.

4. DIY Salt Dough Ornaments

Mix up some simple dough, roll it out, and cut festive shapes with cookie cutters before baking and decorating with paint or glitter.

Why kids love it: It’s like playing with playdough—but their creations last forever as cherished keepsakes.

5. Handprint Wreaths

Trace, cut, and glue handprints onto green paper to form a round wreath, then finish it with a ribbon bow.

Why kids love it: They love seeing their own hands become part of a holiday decoration the whole family can display.

DIY Christmas Crafts projects like these are more than just crafts — they’re a chance for kids to express themselves and create meaningful memories. With endless options to explore, it’s easy to see why DIY activities are some of the most loved Christmas crafts for kids.

Want more DIY ideas? Check out our full guide to 20 DIY Christmas crafts for kids and explore all five subcategories in detail.

Preschool Christmas Crafts

Preschool Christmas crafts are all about keeping little hands busy with simple, playful projects that build creativity and fine motor skills. At this age, kids love activities that let them paint, glue, and explore textures — while parents and teachers appreciate how easy the crafts are to set up. From colorful garlands to recycled elves, these ideas are fun, safe, and perfectly suited for preschoolers.

1- Fingerprint Christmas Lights Garland

Draw a simple black line across paper, then let kids stamp colorful fingerprints along it to look like twinkling holiday bulbs.

Why preschoolers love it: Turning their tiny fingerprints into “glowing” lights feels magical and silly at the same time.

2- Paper Chain Advent Calendar

Cut strips of red, green, and white paper, loop them into rings, and connect them into a countdown chain. Kids remove one link each day until Christmas arrives.

Why preschoolers love it: They’re proud to build the chain themselves and love the daily ritual of tearing off a link as the holiday gets closer.

3- Toilet Paper Roll Christmas Elf

Turn an empty cardboard roll into a cheerful elf with a paper hat, clothes, and a goofy little face. Add googly eyes for extra fun (optional).

Why preschoolers love it: They get to bring a plain tube “to life” — and the silly elf face always makes them laugh.

4- Candy Cane Bead Threading Activity

Thread red and white beads onto a pipe cleaner, then bend it into a candy cane shape.

Why preschoolers love it: The beading keeps their hands busy, teaches simple patterns, and the final shape feels like a sweet surprise.

Christmas Crafts for Preschoolers like these are easy to set up, encourage hands-on learning, and keep preschoolers entertained while celebrating the season. They’re also a wonderful way to introduce young children to the joy of Christmas crafts for kids.

See the full list of fun and simple projects in our complete 15 preschool Christmas crafts guide.

Christmas Crafts for Toddlers

Christmas crafts for toddlers are designed to be simple, safe, and engaging, focusing on sensory play and easy steps. At this age, kids love crafts that let them explore textures, colors, and shapes — while parents appreciate activities that build hand-eye coordination without too much mess. These crafts are quick to set up and give toddlers a chance to feel proud of their holiday creations.

Here are some of the best toddler-friendly ideas:

1. Pom-Pom Ornament Sticking

Toddlers drop colorful pom-poms into clear plastic ornaments until they’re full, then hang them on the tree with ribbon.

Why toddlers love it: It feels like a fun game, keeps little hands busy, and the final ornament is something they can proudly show off.

2. Tissue Paper Wreaths

Cut a circle from a paper plate, then let toddlers glue on crumpled green tissue squares, finishing with a bow or stickers.

Why toddlers love it: Crumpling paper is a fun sensory activity, and they enjoy seeing their wreath transform into a festive decoration.

3.Snowy Pinecone Sensory Craft

Dip pinecones in glue or paint and sprinkle with flour or glitter for a frosty effect.

Why toddlers love it: The rough pinecone texture mixed with soft “snow” makes this messy craft both tactile and magical.

These Christmas Crafts for Toddlers are quick wins for parents and teachers — keeping toddlers happily engaged while creating festive keepsakes. Even the littlest hands can join the holiday fun with these simple Christmas crafts for kids.

Discover even more easy, sensory-friendly projects in our full guide on 15 Christmas crafts for toddlers.

Kindergarten Christmas Crafts

Kindergarten Christmas crafts are the perfect blend of creativity and skill-building. At this age, kids are ready for projects that challenge their fine motor skills, introduce new techniques, and allow them to tell stories through art. These Christmas crafts for Kindergarten are slightly more advanced than toddler or preschool activities, making them a great fit for classrooms or at-home holiday fun.

Here are some of the best ideas to try:

1. Button Snowman Craft

Kids build a snowman by gluing buttons of different sizes onto cardstock, then decorate it with paper or felt scarves, hats, and arms.

Why kids love it: Choosing their own button “body parts” makes each snowman unique and personal, while the mix of textures keeps it fun and tactile.

2. Popsicle Stick Nativity Scene

Glue popsicle sticks into a stable shape, then add felt or paper cutouts to represent Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus.

Why kids love it: Kindergarteners love storytelling, and this craft lets them connect their art with the Christmas story in a way that feels special and memorable.

3. Christmas Stocking Sewing Card

Punch holes along a paper stocking and let kids lace yarn or ribbon through to “sew” their own festive design.

Why kids love it: The motion feels like real sewing, which makes them feel independent and capable, while also improving hand-eye coordination.

4. Beaded Snowflakes

Shape pipe cleaners into snowflakes, then thread on sparkly beads to make ornaments.

Why kids love it: The glittering beads catch the light beautifully, and threading beads is both calming and rewarding.

These kindergarten Christmas crafts combine fun with skill-building, making them ideal for young learners. They help children feel accomplished while adding extra holiday sparkle to classrooms and homes. With activities like these, it’s easy to see how the holiday season inspires some of the most joyful Christmas crafts for kids.

Looking for more classroom-ready activities? Explore our complete roundup of 15 kindergarten Christmas crafts.

Handprint Christmas Crafts for Kids

Handprint Christmas crafts for Kids are some of the most meaningful keepsakes for parents and teachers, because they capture a child’s handprint in a fun, festive design. These projects are easy to make, require only basic supplies, and give kids a chance to literally put their “stamp” on holiday decorations. From Santas and snowmen to trees and snowflakes, handprint art transforms little hands into holiday magic.

Here are some of the best ideas to try:

1. Santa Handprint Beard

Trace or stamp a child’s hand to form Santa’s fluffy beard, then top it with a red hat and cotton-ball details.

Why kids love it: They adore gluing on cotton balls and giggle at how their handprints “grow” into Santa’s beard.

2. Christmas Tree Handprint

Layer green handprints in a triangle shape, then decorate with stickers, glitter, or sequins to create a tree.

Why kids love it: Stacking their handprints feels like building something big, and decorating the “tree” gives them total creative freedom.

3. Handprint Wreath

Arrange cut-out green handprints into a circle and add a red bow or berries to finish the wreath.

Why kids love it: They’re excited to see their own hands come together to form a bold holiday decoration they can hang proudly.

4. Handprint Snowmen Family

Paint a white handprint, then turn each finger into a snowman with scarves, hats, and noses.

Why kids love it: Each finger becomes a funny little snowman character, and they love giving each one its own style.

5. Handprint Snowflake Art

Stamp or paint multiple white handprints in different directions to create a snowflake pattern, then add glitter for sparkle.

Why kids love it: Watching their handprints transform into a new design feels like magic, and the glitter makes it extra special.

Handprint Christmas Crafts for kids like these not only bring joy to kids but also create keepsakes that parents will cherish for years. They’re some of the most personal and memorable Christmas crafts for kids.

Find the full collection of keepsake-worthy projects in our detailed 15 handprint Christmas crafts guide.

Toilet Paper Roll Christmas Crafts

Toilet paper roll Christmas crafts are a fantastic way to recycle everyday items and turn them into festive treasures. They’re budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and endlessly versatile, making them a favorite for both parents and teachers. With just a bit of paint, paper, and glue, kids can transform cardboard tubes into characters, decorations, and even gift holders. Here are four fun themes to explore:

1. Santa Claus & Friends Toilet Paper Roll Crafts

No holiday craft roundup is complete without Santa and his merry crew. With toilet paper rolls crafts as the base, kids can create Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, reindeer, and even frosty snowmen. Each character can be decorated with paper hats, cotton beards, or googly eyes, bringing plenty of personality to every craft. Children especially enjoy acting out stories with their handmade characters, turning this project into both a craft and a playtime activity.

2. Christmas Decorations Toilet Paper Roll Crafts

These crafts go beyond characters — they double as homemade holiday decorations. From sparkling Christmas trees to glowing “candles,” angel figurines, and mini wreaths, kids can help deck the halls with their creations. The best part is how adaptable they are: add glitter for sparkle, tissue paper for texture, or ribbon for extra flair. Whether displayed at home or in the classroom, these crafts let children proudly contribute to the seasonal décor.

3. Gift & Treat Holder Toilet Paper Roll Crafts

Who knew toilet paper rolls could make such charming packaging? With some wrapping paper or paint, they become tiny gift boxes, candy cane holders, or even a full DIY advent calendar. Kids love filling them with sweets or small surprises, and parents appreciate how eco-friendly and cost-effective they are. These crafts are not just fun to make — they add a thoughtful, handmade touch to holiday gift-giving.

4. Cute Animal Characters Toilet Paper Roll Crafts

Kids are always drawn to animals, and Christmas-themed creatures make crafting even more exciting. Using simple supplies, little ones can turn toilet paper rolls into penguins, polar bears, owls, or even gingerbread characters. These whimsical animals are fun to display on a windowsill, use in holiday storytelling, or gift as keepsakes. The mix of imagination and creativity makes them a favorite among younger children.

Toilet paper roll Christmas Crafts for Kids projects prove that holiday fun doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. With just a few supplies, these categories open the door to some of the most creative and sustainable Christmas crafts for kids.

Want to see all the character, decoration, and gift-holder ideas? Browse our complete post on 17 toilet paper roll Christmas crafts.

Christmas Tree Crafts for Kids

Few things capture the magic of the holiday season like decorating a Christmas tree. With Christmas tree crafts, kids get the chance to create their very own versions — from paper cutouts to sensory projects — all while practicing creativity and fine motor skills. These projects are versatile enough for toddlers, preschoolers, and even older children, making them a must-have activity for the season.

Here are some of the best Christmas tree craft ideas:

1. Pinecone Christmas Tree Craft

Turn a simple pinecone into a mini holiday tree by painting it green and adding tiny pom-poms, sequins, or beads as ornaments. Finish with a star on top for the perfect touch.

Why kids love it: It feels magical to see a plain pinecone transformed into a Christmas tree, especially when they get to decorate it however they like.

2. Popsicle Stick Christmas Tree Ornaments

Glue three popsicle sticks into a triangle, paint it green, and decorate with sequins or beads before adding a ribbon to hang it on the tree.

Why kids love it: They’re creating a real ornament for the family tree — a keepsake that makes them feel proud every year it’s displayed.

3. Tissue Paper Christmas Tree Collage

Crumple small pieces of tissue paper and glue them onto a tree outline to make a textured, colorful collage.

Why kids love it: Crumpling the tissue paper is a fun sensory activity, and the finished tree feels bold and festive.

4. Button Christmas Tree Craft

Cut out a tree shape from green cardstock and decorate it with an assortment of colorful buttons, finishing with a paper star at the top.

Why kids love it: Picking and gluing buttons is both tactile and creative, and the rainbow of colors makes their tree stand out.

5. Cupcake Liner Christmas Tree

Flatten and fold cupcake liners, then stack them onto cardstock to form a layered, 3D tree. Add sequins or stickers for decoration.

Why kids love it: The folded cupcake liners give their tree a unique look that pops off the page, making it different from traditional paper crafts.

Christmas tree crafts are timeless because they give kids the joy of decorating a tree in their own creative way. These projects are fun, festive, and some of the most beloved Christmas crafts for kids.

Check out the full guide to 17 Christmas tree crafts for kids for even more creative ways to decorate and play.

Printable Christmas Crafts

When time is short but you still want something creative, printable Christmas crafts are a lifesaver. With ready-to-go templates, kids can color, cut, and assemble decorations in minutes — making them perfect for classrooms, playdates, or cozy afternoons at home. These crafts keep things simple for parents and teachers while giving kids endless ways to personalize their creations.

Here are some of the best printable holiday activities:

1. Christmas Paper Chains

Color, cut, and loop festive strips of paper into chains to create bright garlands for trees, windows, or classrooms.

Why kids love it: The repeating loops are easy for little hands, and kids feel proud decorating spaces with their own colorful chains.

2. Printable Christmas Tree Decorations

Print and color ornaments like stars, baubles, and garlands, then cut them out to hang on a real or paper tree.

Why kids love it: They get to design their own decorations, making the Christmas tree feel extra personal and festive.

3. Christmas Paper Puppets

Use printable templates to make Santa, elves, or reindeer into finger puppets or glue them to popsicle sticks for storytelling fun.

Why kids love it: Puppet shows bring their characters to life, letting them act out silly holiday adventures.

4. Printable Gift Tags & Wrapping Paper

Print sheets of gift tags or wrapping paper for kids to color and decorate before using them on real presents.

Why kids love it: Adding their own designs to gifts gives them a sense of pride and makes the presents under the tree feel extra special.

Printable Christmas crafts are quick, engaging, and perfect for both classrooms and at-home fun. With just a printer and some crayons, they turn into festive keepsakes that stand among the most convenient and creative Christmas crafts for kids.

Explore the complete list of printables in our full post on 12 printable Christmas crafts — perfect for busy parents and teachers.

Your Bonus: Christmas Activity Pages Bundle

If you’re looking for ready-made projects that go hand-in-hand with your holiday crafting, our Christmas Activity Pages Bundle is the perfect companion. Packed with printable worksheets and games, it keeps kids entertained, learning, and creating — without the need for extra prep. Parents love it for screen-free afternoons, and teachers find it handy for classroom holiday fun.

What’s inside the bundle:

• 47 Mixed Christmas Activity Pages Book– A cheerful mix of puzzles and challenges.
• 31 Christmas Cutting Practice Worksheets – From straight lines to playful holiday shapes.
• 30 Christmas Cut & Paste Worksheets – Creative, hands-on activities kids adore.
• 35 Christmas Dot Marker Pages – Festive patterns designed for dot marker fun.
• 120+ Christmas Coloring Pages – Across three (3) themes for hours of coloring joy.
• I Spy Christmas Book for Kids – A festive game that builds focus and counting skills.

With this bundle, you’ll always have engaging Christmas activity sheets on hand — whether you need a quick craft, a quiet-time activity, or a classroom project.

Check out the full Christmas Activity Pages Printable Bundle and give your kids endless festive fun!

FAQs

Final Words

The holiday season is the perfect time to slow down, get creative, and make lasting memories with your children. From DIY Christmas crafts to printable activity sheets, every project on this list offers a chance for kids to explore, learn, and express themselves in festive, screen-free ways.

Whether your little ones are toddlers exploring textures, preschoolers learning through play, or kindergarteners ready for bigger challenges, there’s a craft here for everyone. Each project is simple, affordable, and bursting with holiday cheer — reminding us that the best gifts aren’t always bought, but made with love.