This last stretch of winter is the perfect time to cozy up with fun crafts for kids. Not only are they a great way to engage kiddos when it’s too cold to go outside, but they also make heartwarming keepsakes to tuck away and revisit on wintery days long from now. That’s why we’re loving the clever hand and foot painting we’ve seen on crafting blogs. It’s amazing what you can turn those little digits into. All you need is Apple Barrel Craft Paint (the best kind of paint for these types of projects) and some paper and you’re all set. Just don’t forget to have the kiddos sign and date the back of the artwork when it dries!
Sweet Owl Handprint Art
Tutorial available from Rips in My Jeans
You don’t have to be an artist to create wall art. Just ask the clever mom behind the blog Rips in My Jeans. Paint some little hands and let them stamp away. Frame their work of art after it dries and keep it for yourself or give it to the grandparents as a gift.
Handprint Bouquet
Tutorial available from kinder-craze
This is a great project for kids with siblings. Have them each dip a hand in paint to make a “flower,” then challenge them to work together to come up with a vase. And for those ambitious parents out there—maybe even pair the creation with a short poem or favorite quote.
Colorful Owl Handprint Art
Via Christy Simpson on Pinterest
These little owls would make a fun winter play-date activity or an older/younger sibling joint project. Have older kids make the owls for the younger kids to paint. Go team!
Handprinted Animal Collection
via Handprint Creations
Why not take the opportunity to create an art wall in a hallway or in a kid’s room with a collection of handprinted animals. These look straight out of a storybook, don’t they? You can make your own images inspired by these, or send your prints off to Handprinted Creations, and they’ll turn your kid’s handprint into the creature of your choice.
Five Little Handprinted Firefighters
via Tippytoe Crafts
Just about every preschooler is mad about firefighters, so this makes the perfect five-and-under painting project. Love the little hats and hose!
Handprint Monsters
Tutorial available via Meet the Dubiens
Super cute idea! Paint only a couple of fingers to create different types of monsters. Press hands upside down for even more silly creatures.
Handprint Rocket
via That’s Adorable
Lisa Klein of That’s Adorable will turn your kiddo’s hand and feet prints into works of art. Or you can try your hand at making your own.
Pictured at the top of this post: Footprint Flags via Dragonfly Designs