Christmas crafts are always a favourite in our house, and this handprint nutcracker is such a fun way to work on a themed project while keeping things simple and hands-on for little ones. Instead of reaching for a paper plate nutcracker or a more detailed plate nutcracker design, this version focuses on using your child’s own handprint which adds that special personal touch.
It makes a lovely keepsake to look back on in future years and it’s also perfect if you are collecting handprint and footprint art throughout the holiday season.
Nutcrackers have become such a classic part of Christmas decor. We see them everywhere this time of year, from wooden ornaments on the mantel to life-size figures at shop displays, and of course the famous Nutcracker Ballet that many families watch annually.
Whether your child knows the story from the ballet or just recognises nutcrackers from around the house, this craft ties perfectly into that traditional Christmas theme and brings a playful twist.
Materials Needed for your Handprint Nutcracker Craft
For this handprint nutcracker craft we used a few simple materials that most families already have at home. Construction paper works best because it gives a sturdy finish to the design and is easy for kids to cut and glue.
You will also need scissors and glue to assemble everything together once the pieces of your handprint nutcracker printable are ready. If you want to decorate further, you can add crayons, glitter, colouring pencils or even small embellishments to personalise your nutcracker.
Download your nutcracker printable template at the end of this blog post.
Step by Step How to Make a Handprint Nutcracker Craft
To make your handprint nutcracker, start by preparing the main shape and follow along with the easy instructions below.
How to make a handprint nutcracker
Handprint crafts are always a winner at Christmas, and this adorable nutcracker design turns your child’s handprint into a cute holiday keepsake you’ll want to save for years. It’s quick to make, easy for little hands to assemble, and ties perfectly into the classic Nutcracker Christmas theme.
Materials
- Construction paper in chosen colors (black, brown, yellow, skin tones)
- Glue
- Scissor
- Free printable template
Tools
- Printer for template
Instructions
- Make a handprint on brown paper and cut it out.
- Cut an arc in pink paper and attach it to the handprint to form the face.
- Cut the templates, trace them onto their corresponding papers, and cut again.
- Assemble the templates one by one
then attach them to the handprint. - Attach the hat at the top.
Now you can already see the nutcracker coming together! - Prepare the templates for the face
- And attach the details of the face to the front of your nutcracker
- You're all done
This easy handprint nutcracker is great for preschoolers and young children because it relies more on assembling shapes rather than detailed drawing.
Kids can choose their own colours and even add extra touches like rosy cheeks, a bigger moustache or sparkly details on the hat. Once finished, you can hang it as Christmas decor or turn it into a card or keepsake page. It also works well alongside a paper plate nutcracker or other Christmas crafts if you are planning a themed activity day.
Free Printable Nutcracker Template
To make this project even easier, we also have a free printable handprint nutcracker template that you can trace onto coloured paper. This saves time cutting the shapes freehand and helps younger children stay on track with the design. Feel free to print multiple copies if you are working with a group or classroom. If you prefer to draw your own shapes, the template can still serve as a guide to get the proportions just right.
Terms of use: Our free printable is free for personal use and classroom use.
This nutcracker handprint craft is such a lovely way to bring Christmas traditions into a hands-on activity with kids. It is simple enough for younger children while still being fun for older ones who can customise their designs. Whether it’s used as part of holiday decor, a keepsake, or a craft to go alongside reading The Nutcracker or watching the ballet, it adds a special homemade touch to the Christmas season.
More Christmas Handprint Crafts
If you enjoyed this project, take a look at our other Christmas handprint crafts for children. Need more ideas? W have so many! You can build a whole collection of holiday keepsakes and even create a yearly scrapbook to watch how those little hands grow over time.
- Easy Handprint Santa Craft
- Snowflake Handprints
- Handprint Angel Craft With Free Printable Template
- Handprint Reindeer Christmas Craft for Kids
- Moose Handprint Craft for Kids
More Nutcracker Crafts for Kids
If your children are really into the nutcracker theme, there are so many other ways to explore it with paper, colouring pages, or even footprint art. Try mixing this handprint project with more simple paper crafts, or themed activities to expand the fun.
- Nutcracker Coloring Pages
- Nutcracker Papercraft for Kids with Free Printable Template
- Adorable Popsicle Stick Sugar Plum Fairy Craft
Before you go, please share this blog post with friends, classrooms, or family groups so more parents and children can enjoy making their own handprint nutcracker this Christmas.
Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.