Why are they perfect for Christmas coziness?
They are easy, require few materials, and can be made together with children or as a creative break for yourself. You can create an entire little Christmas universe with elves, reindeer, snowmen, and gifts – and customize colors and details just as you like.
What you need
- Egg cartons
- Hobby paint (red, white, black, brown, orange, pink)
- Paintbrushes
- Googly eyes in different sizes
- Small pom-poms for elf hats
- Small branches for reindeer antlers
- Glue gun or craft glue
- Scissors
- Black markers for details
Step-by-step guide for the reindeer
- Cut the egg carton: Cut the peaks (cones) out of the egg carton; these will become the shape of your figures – one for each figure.
- Paint: Paint the cone white. Once it is dry, paint the top of the cone brown and a thick, half-rounded brown line in the middle on the side that will be the face.
- Add details: Then paint white dots on the brown section and a soft triangular nose on the center brown line.
- Glue: Glue the eyes on, one on each side of the brown line.
- Antlers up: Make two holes, one on each side, with scissors. Insert the small branches so it looks like antlers.
- Enjoy your homemade reindeer: Whether you make a whole herd or a mix of everything, we'll leave that entirely up to you. But they are certainly cozy.
Step-by-step guide for the Christmas gifts
- Cut the egg carton: Cut the peaks (cones) out of the egg carton; these will become the shape of your Christmas gifts.
- Paint: Paint the cone pink. Once it is dry, paint the lines in the middle all the way around. It may be an advantage to use a ruler here if you want the lines to be sharp. Let it dry.
- Paint the bow: Start by painting the arches, then paint the two ribbons from the center of the bow.
Step-by-step guide for the snowman
- Cut the egg carton: Cut the peaks (cones) out of the egg carton; these will become the shape of your snowman.
- Paint: Paint the cone white. Once it is dry, paint the hat in black on the side where the face will be.
- Add details: Glue the eyes on, paint the nose with orange paint, the arms with brown, and create the mouth with small black dots. If you choose to make it with a scarf, skip the arms and instead paint the scarf with red paint all the way around.
Step-by-step guide for the elf
- Cut the egg carton: Cut the peaks (cones) out of the egg carton; these will become the shape of your elves.
- Paint: Paint half of the cone white and the other half red.
- Add details: Glue the eyes on, paint the mouth with black, and place two small dots on each side of the mouth as the elf's cheeks.
- Glue: Glue the pom-pom onto the top of the elf hat.
Tips for variations
- Use glitter for an extra festive look.
- Paint the gifts in every possible color.
- Paint one green and glue a star on top to make a Christmas tree.
Frequently asked questions
How many figures can I make from one egg carton?
Typically 2-4 pieces, depending on the size.
Can I use colors other than red and white?
Yes! Try gold details or pastel colors for a different look.
How long does it take?
Approx. 20-30 minutes per figure.
Create your own Christmas universe – it's easier than you think!
With egg cartons, a bit of paint, and imagination, you can conjure up the cutest figures: elves, reindeer, snowmen, and small gifts. It is a fun activity that spreads Christmas spirit and provides you with decorations that no one else has. So gather your materials, put on some Christmas music, and let your creativity run wild. Merry Christmas and enjoy!
