Paint Stick Snowmen

I needed a simple winter themed craft project that I could easily do with 25 5th graders in 15 minutes. I knew right away what that craft would be. Paint Stick Snowmen!

My youngest son's teacher sent out a note to all parents regarding their winter party that would take place the last day of school before winter break. One of the activities she was requesting help for was a craft project. I emailed her and told her I would be happy to help, and I set to work.

It was important to keep this project within a winter theme, rather than Christmas or Hanukkah, so what better than snowmen? :) These cuties are made from paint stir sticks, the free ones that they give you in the paint department when you buy paint. I stopped by WalMart and told the guy in the paint department that we were doing a class project and he gave me 35 paint sticks, no questions asked. :)

Knowing we only had about 15 minutes to get this done, I decided to paint the sticks ahead of time. I actually painted two layers on each side and sprayed them all with a clear acrylic sealer. I didn't want the sticks flaking or getting scratched when I placed them all in the bag together, hence the sealer. You can certainly skip that step and just do one coat of paint if you like.

I also cut all the material to be used for scarves and hats, and I put together a variety of buttons and beads, and broke all the orange toothpicks in half for the noses. The only thing I would do different next time is instead of black paint and toothpicks, I would opt for black markers to make the faces. While it wasn't really messy, I think it would have been easier.

All in all, the kids had a fabulous time and it was really amazing seeing how many different ways you can make a snowman!

Here are some pictures of the class as well as a picture of my son, Dominic, with his snowman. :)

(instructions below)

Paint Stick Snowmen
[printable version ]

You Will Need

wooden paint stir stick painted white
3" x 3" piece of felt for hat
8" x 1" strip of material or felt
3 buttons or pony beads
1/2 of a orange toothpick
6" piece of yarn
white craft glue
scissors
black marker or black paint
hot glue gun

What You Do

Wrap 3"x3" fabric around the top of the stick and hot glue together in the back. If you have more time, you can use white craft glue or felt glue and attach a wooden clothespin to the stick and hat to hold it in place while it dries. Tie yarn around the top of the hat and trim ends. Fringe the top of the hat with scissors if you like.

Wrap 8"x1" strip of material around the neck, tie in a knot. Fringe the ends with scissors.

Use white craft glue to attach 3 buttons or beads below the scarf and glue the orange toothpick on for the nose. Use black marker, or a toothpick dipped in black paint to create the mouth and eyes.

Let everything dry. All done!

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