10 Easy DIY Holiday Crafts for Kids: Fun and Festive Ideas Using Household Items

The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative and make memories with your kids through fun Christmas crafts. If you're looking for ways to bring festive cheer to your home without spending a lot, the solution might be closer than you think—right in your kitchen drawer or craft closet! Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just looking for simple, eco-friendly ideas, you can create charming, personalized decorations with materials you already have. Here are 10 easy and fun Christmas craft ideas to enjoy with your kids and add some holiday magic to your home!

1. Paper Snowflakes: A Winter Wonderland Inside

Turn a simple sheet of paper into delicate snowflakes that will bring the magic of winter indoors. You can customize the patterns as much as you like – from classic designs to more intricate shapes. All you need is a pair of scissors and some paper. Cut your paper into squares, fold it into triangles, and cut out shapes along the edges. When unfolded, you’ll have beautiful snowflakes that can be hung on windows, walls, or even used as gift tags for a personal touch.

Tip: Experiment with colored paper or add a sprinkle of glitter for a little extra sparkle!

2. Pinecone Ornaments: Nature’s Gift

Pinecones are one of the simplest yet most beautiful natural elements you can use in holiday decorations. Collect pinecones from outside or from your craft stash and turn them into ornaments by gluing a piece of string at the top to create a hanging loop. Add some festive flair by coating them in glue and dusting them with glitter or hang them as is for a rustic look.

Tip: Try using a mix of pinecones and small greenery like sprigs of holly or mistletoe for a more layered decoration.

3. Cinnamon Stick Bundles: A Scent-sational Touch

If you love the scent of cinnamon during the holidays, cinnamon stick bundles make a great decor item! Simply tie a few cinnamon sticks together with twine or string. You can also add small greenery like sprigs of rosemary, making it not only a charming decoration but also an aromatic one. Hang these bundles in the kitchen, on the tree, or use them as napkin rings for your holiday dinner.

Tip: These bundles make fantastic homemade gifts too!

4. Mason Jar Candle Holders: Cozy Ambiance

Mason jars are versatile and perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere. Fill them with a candle (real or LED), and decorate the jar’s exterior with ribbon, twine, or even faux snow for a wintery vibe. If you’re feeling extra creative, try layering the jar with fake snow, glitter, or small beads for a festive effect. These can be placed anywhere in your home to add warmth and charm.

Tip: For a more dramatic effect, consider using colorful jars and candles to match your holiday theme!

5. DIY Christmas Tree from Old Books: A Literary Tree

For book lovers, why not turn your old books into a Christmas tree? Stack them in a pyramid shape, gluing them together as you go. Decorate with small ornaments, a DIY star on top, or even string battery-operated fairy lights around it. This charming "tree" adds a unique touch to your holiday decor while also repurposing old books that might otherwise gather dust.

Tip: Stack a few smaller books at the base to make the tree more stable.

6. Upcycled Sweater Stockings: Cozy and Sustainable

If you have an old sweater lying around that’s seen better days, repurpose it into adorable Christmas stockings. Cut the fabric into a stocking shape, sew the sides together, and add a cute button, bow, or even a small fabric scrap to personalize it. These homemade stockings will bring a touch of warmth and personality to your fireplace or mantel.

Tip: Use different sweater patterns or colors for a cozy, eclectic look.

7. Wine Cork Reindeer: Crafting with Leftovers

Who knew that old wine corks could make such adorable reindeer? Glue two corks together to form the body and head of the reindeer. Attach pipe cleaners for antlers, add googly eyes, and glue a red pom-pom on the front for the nose. These little reindeer make great table centerpieces, tree ornaments, or even holiday card holders.

Tip: Save corks throughout the year, so you have a collection when the holidays roll around!

8. Christmas Card Garland: Display Your Holiday Cheer

Instead of tossing out your old holiday cards, turn them into a beautiful garland. Cut the cards into fun shapes or leave them as they are, then hang them across a string using clothespins or tape. This simple decoration allows you to showcase the cards you've received and add an extra pop of color to your living room or dining area.

Tip: Try arranging the cards by color or theme to create a cohesive garland.

9. Mason Jar Snow globes: A Fun and Quirky Craft

Repurpose old mason jars into exciting snow globes with old toys from around your house. Take miniature figures and trees to glue to the bottom of the jar. Fill the rest of it with confetti, shut the lid tight, and shake!

Tip: Add a few sprigs of greenery to the base for a more festive look.

10. Tinsel Bottle Lights: Sparkle and Shine

Empty wine or liquor bottles can easily be transformed into sparkling light displays. Fill the bottles with tinsel, glitter, or fake snow, then insert a string of battery-operated lights. This simple project can bring twinkling light to your dinner table, mantle, or as a part of your overall holiday decor. It’s a great way to recycle bottles while adding a little extra holiday magic.

Tip: Choose bottles in different shapes and sizes to create a more dynamic display.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating Christmas crafts into your holiday traditions is a wonderful way to bond with your kids while creating meaningful, homemade decorations. Not only does it add a personal touch to your festive décor, but it also allows for creativity, fun, and lasting memories. With just a few simple supplies and a little imagination, you can transform everyday items into unique holiday treasures. So, gather your materials, get crafting, and make this holiday season even more special with your little ones by your side!

Remember, after the holidays, if you need help getting rid of your decorations or any old furniture before the New Years, College Hunks can help get it off your hands!  Happy Holidays!