Christmas Crafts for Children Using Beads

Christmas is a wondrous time of year for kids. And what better way to get in the Christmas spirit than by having them make some Christmas crafts. One of the easiest methods for children to make crafts for Christmas is by using beads. Following are two Christmas crafts that are sure to delight your kids!

Christmas Craft #1: Christmas bead bracelet.

Craft supplies needed:

12 inches of plastic lacing

Approximately 26 pony beads in Christmas colors of your choice

4 or 5 jingle bells

Pony beads are a common, inexpensive item found in craft stores. Double check to make sure your plastic lacing will fit through the jingle bells. Clip one end of the plastic lacing with a paper clip to keep the beads from falling off. Have your child string 5 or 6 beads in any color scheme onto the plastic lacing. Then string a jingle bell. Repeat this process (beads then bell) several times until there are enough beads strung to go around your child's wrist. Wrap the bracelet around your child's wrist and tie the ends of the lacing in a double knot. Trim off the excess lace and now you have a homemade Christmas bracelet designed by your child!

Christmas Craft #2: Candy canes.

Craft supplies needed:

pipe cleaners, preferably white

beads, white and red

This is a very simple Christmas craft that children can make. Take 1 pipe cleaner and curl one end so the beads don't fall off. Have your child string red and white beads alternately up to the top of the pipe cleaner. Or, as a variation, string 2 reds, then 2 whites, etc. up to the top of the pipe cleaner. Twist or curl the top end of the pipe cleaner so the beads don't fall off. Then just bend the beaded pipe cleaner into the shape of a candy cane. You can hang these on your tree or attach them to gifts or even give as presents. Given the simplicity of this craft, the outcome is really cute!

Both of these beaded Christmas crafts are simple and don't create a mess with glue or glitter!