There’s Still Time! Quick, Thrifty, and Eco-friendly Christmas Crafts to do with Kids
The best kinds of Christmas projects really are quick, thrifty, and eco-friendly. When a project is quick–it doesn’t require a lot of prep or clean-up, provides results in a timely manner, and is simple enough that everyone can contribute meaningfully–you can focus your energy on the interaction with your loved ones instead of on the project. When a project is thrifty–it doesn’t require a lot of pricey materials, and ideally utilizes stuff you already possess–the stakes are low enough that everyone can enjoy themselves instead of fussing about appearance. And when a project is eco-friendly–it makes primary use of natural materials and recycling–then you show your kids that being green is a worldview, not a fad.
The projects below are all quick, thrifty, and eco-friendly. And also? They’re fun.
- » See also: Grow Your Own Tree Hugger: 101 Activities to Teach Your Child How to Live Green
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- paper snowflakes
- cinnamon cut-outs
- popcorn garland
- stacking trees
- LEGO ornaments
- pumpkin bread
- peppermint-scented melt-and-pour soap
And then it’s Christmas!
What are your quick, thrifty, and eco-friendly Christmas craft projects that you do with kids?








I love crafting with the kids! Thanks for these awesome ideas! I was trying to think of what to do today… yet another snow day but now its all mushy/slushy and not at all fun to play in. We made lots and lots of recycled snow flakes yesterday.
I’m thinking today is a GREAT day for cinnamon cut-outs…
[...] There’s Still Time! Quick, Thrifty, and Eco-friendly Christmas Crafts to do with Kids [...]
I’m kind of obsessed with cinnamon cut-outs, myself–I’ve found a way to sneak them into every holiday. Valentine’s Day is also especially festive, if you cut them all into heart shapes.
[...] Child’s Play’s Julie Finn has a few more green holiday craft ideas, including festive LEGO ornaments which you can simply disassemble and put away after [...]