As I’ve mentioned before, I’m an advocate for crafts that are both simple both in approach and in materials. Working with little ones you want to minimize the steps and maximize gratification. Bonus, by eliminating steps you can have a roster of projects that will cater to a wee attention span whether it be yours or you child!

Read on for a collection of clever holiday crafts that you can create with your children.

Sheep Gift Tags
via pennyvertone on dewanda

These tags are the bahhhhh without the humbug. Create a basic sheep silhouette using a clip art for the stencil. Cut out of thick cardstock in shades of linen, wheat, or cloudy grey and wrap with corresponding wool yarn or roving.

Paper Doll Ornament
via poussiére de grenier

Scour flea markets for vintage paper dolls or snap up some Tom Tierney paper dolls if you’re less of a vintage hound. Punch a hole at the top and add pretty twine. So simple, right?

Paint-Dipped Pinecones
via factory direct craft

Take your child on a neighborhood adventure, armed with a knapsack and a thermos of hot cider, and collect pinecones both big and small. Cover an area with newspaper or a drop cloth. Dip the pinecones in a bucket of white house paint to create a porcelain look. Display in a pretty basket or under a glass cloche.

Mason Jar Snow Globe
via honeycomb creative co.

Search your local antique stores for blue mason jars or visit a hardware store and pick up a case of classic ball jars. insert bottle brush trees, woodland figurines, or even tiny ornaments. add a healthy dusting of iridescent artificial snow. Instant magic!

Magnolia Leaf Garland
via design*sponge

Another outdoor crafting experience with your child! This could also be done while collecting those pinecones :) Take gathered magnolia leaves and punch out shapes with a craft paper punch. Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, string the garland together and hang on your mantle for a festive and natural decoration. For full instructions by the talented BBB Craft Sisters click on over to Design*Sponge.

Glitter Menagerie
via sweet paul

For a shiny and simple tutorial, pop on over to Sweet Paul.

Glitter Acorns
via stacey winters on etsy

Add this to your outdoor excursion with your child. Collect fallen acorns and glitter the caps. Add a touch of hot glue and some baker’s twine to the cap for a magical ornament.

Cranberry Heart
via about garden

For a twist on the traditional cranberry garland, create cheerful hearts with a little bit of thin wire and either fresh or dried cranberries. Could even be a treat for the birds and squirrels in your yard!