Christmas crafts are some of my favorite activities to do with my kids during the holiday season. There is just something so sweet about sitting around the table, getting a little messy with paint, and creating something together.
And if you’re anything like me, you probably love finding Christmas crafts that are simple enough for little hands but still turn out absolutely adorable!
This easy paper plate reindeer craft is one of those activities.
Using a paper plate, some brown paint, and your child’s handprints, you can create the cutest little Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer!
The best part? You probably already have most of the supplies sitting around your house.
And let’s be real, mama. Sometimes we just need a simple activity to keep the kids entertained without spending an hour getting everything ready.
Easy Reindeer Craft for Kids
One thing I love about this Christmas craft is that it doesn’t have to be perfect.
In fact, I think the little imperfections are what make homemade Christmas crafts so special.
The uneven paint strokes, the crooked antlers, and the funny little eyes all add personality to your child’s creation.
Plus, those little handprints make this craft a sweet keepsake to look back on as your children grow.
This paper plate reindeer is a great activity for preschoolers, kindergarteners, and elementary-aged kids.
You can make it at home, during a classroom Christmas party, or even as part of a fun Christmas crafting afternoon with your family.
Supplies Needed for This Paper Plate Reindeer Craft
You don’t need anything fancy to make this adorable little reindeer.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- One paper plate
- Brown washable craft paint
- Brown construction paper or cardstock
- White paper
- Black marker or black paint
- One red pom-pom
- Paintbrush
- Scissors
- Glue
- Pencil
You can also use googly eyes instead of making your own paper eyes if that’s what you have available.
How to Make a Paper Plate Reindeer Craft
This Christmas craft is super simple to put together, and your kids can help with almost every step!
Step 1: Paint Your Paper Plate
Start by giving your child a paper plate and some brown washable paint.
Let them paint the entire front of the plate brown.
Don’t worry about making the paint look perfectly even. The different brush strokes actually give your reindeer a little texture and personality.
Set the paper plate aside to dry.
Step 2: Make the Handprint Antlers
While your paper plate is drying, it’s time to make the reindeer’s antlers!
Have your child place their hands on a piece of brown construction paper.
Carefully trace around each hand with a pencil.
Cut out both handprints.
These will become your reindeer’s antlers!
If your child is old enough to use scissors safely, this is a great opportunity to let them practice their cutting skills.
Younger children may need a little help with this step.
Step 3: Attach the Antlers
Once your paper plate has dried, turn it over.
Glue or tape one handprint antler to each side of the top of your paper plate.
Position the fingers so they stick up and out like reindeer antlers.
Let the glue dry before moving on.
Step 4: Add the Reindeer’s Eyes
Next, it’s time to give your reindeer a face!
Cut two circles or ovals from white paper.
Draw black pupils in the center using a marker, or paint them on.
Glue the eyes toward the upper middle of the paper plate.
You can also use large googly eyes for this step.
Step 5: Give Rudolph His Red Nose
Of course, we can’t make Rudolph without his famous red nose!
Grab a red pom-pom and glue it just below the eyes.
Press it gently into place and allow it to dry.
And just like that, you have an adorable little paper plate reindeer!
Fun Ways to Use Your Reindeer Christmas Craft
Once your child has finished making their reindeer, there are so many cute ways to display it.
Use it as a Christmas decoration. Hang your child’s reindeer on a wall, refrigerator, or classroom bulletin board.
Turn it into a Christmas keepsake. Write your child’s name and the year on the back of the plate. Those little handprint antlers will be especially sweet to look back on someday.
Make a whole reindeer family. If you have several children, let each child make their own reindeer. The different-sized handprints make each one special.
Pair it with a Christmas story. Read Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or another favorite Christmas book before making your craft.
Create a Christmas craft afternoon. Gather a few simple holiday activities, put on some Christmas music, and spend an afternoon crafting together.
Tips for Making This Craft With Toddlers and Preschoolers
If you’re making this reindeer craft with younger kids, here are a few things that can help keep the activity fun instead of stressful.
- Cover your table with newspaper or an inexpensive tablecloth to make cleanup easier.
- Use washable, child-safe paint.
- Trace and cut out the handprints ahead of time if your child isn’t ready to use scissors.
- Let younger kids paint the plate however they want.
- Give the paint plenty of time to dry before adding the decorations.
- Supervise little children when using pom-poms and other small craft supplies.
Remember, the goal isn’t to create a picture-perfect reindeer.
It’s to spend a little time creating something with your children and making memories along the way.
Why I Love Simple Christmas Crafts
I think sometimes we put so much pressure on ourselves as moms to make the holidays magical.
We want to do all the Christmas activities, bake all the cookies, decorate the house, and create wonderful memories for our kids.
But here’s something I’ve learned over the years.
Christmas memories don’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.
Sometimes all it takes is a paper plate, a little brown paint, and a few minutes sitting around the kitchen table together.
Your kids probably aren’t going to remember whether their reindeer turned out perfectly.
But they might remember laughing together while painting, showing off their creations, or hanging their homemade decorations around the house.
Those are the moments that matter.
And that’s why I love simple Christmas crafts like this one.
More Christmas Activities for Kids
If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy the Christmas season with your family, be sure to check out some of these other fun activities on The Peaceful Nest!
- Simple Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Busy Parents
- Christmas Bucket List for Families
- Easy Christmas Crafts for Kids
- Christmas Coloring Pages
- Fun Christmas Activities to Do at Home
There are so many ways to make this season special without adding a ton of extra stress to your plate.
Final Thoughts on This Easy Reindeer Craft
This easy paper plate reindeer craft is a fun, inexpensive Christmas activity that kids of all ages can enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a preschool Christmas craft, something to do on a snowy afternoon, or a sweet homemade keepsake, this little Rudolph is a great choice.
So grab those paper plates, break out the brown paint, and let your kids get creative!
And remember, mama, it doesn’t have to be perfect to be special.
Have you made handprint Christmas crafts with your kids before? I’d love to hear about your favorite ones in the comments below!
