Looking for a cute and mess-free Christmas craft your kids will love? This torn paper gingerbread man craft is super simple and perfect for holiday fun at home or school.
All you need for this gingerbread activity is paper, glue, and a bit of imagination. The free printable gingerbread man template makes it even easier. As a busy homeschool mom, I love this craft it’s zero prep, colorful, and no paint mess. Plus, it’s a great way to keep kids busy, build fine motor skills, and add a little handmade holiday cheer.
Oh, and you can also use this gingerbread craft as part of storytime fun! I hope that your kids (and you!) have a blast with this craftivity.
Simple and Sweet Gingerbread Man Fun for Kids
Gingerbread themes have always been a big hit in our home and in our homeschool life! My boys and I have loved all things gingerbread, especially during the Christmas season.
And we’ve also enjoyed the theme year-round, too. We’ve read and laughed over classic stories like The Gingerbread Man (“Run, run as fast as you can!”).
I’ve loved finding ways to enjoy gingerbread fun with my boys. This torn paper gingerbread man craft is one of my favorites because it’s simple, sweet, and gives kids a chance to build fine motor skills.
And if your crew likes to think outside the box, you can take it even further! It can be such fun to transform the template into a gingerbread woman, animal or silly character. My boys also liked to experiment with new materials for texture and fun.
I’m excited to share how we’ve made this craft and all the ways you can enjoy it for holiday fun.
What You’ll Need for This Gingerbread Man Craft
A fantastic thing about this frugal craft for kids is that you only need a few materials. There’s no prep work and set up is a breeze. I recommend having these supplies ready to go:
- Gingerbread template (use this free instant download)
- Brown, white, red, and green construction paper
- Glue stick
- Optional: A variety of colors of construction paper, glitter glue, pom poms, sequins, buttons, and other craft supplies for extra decorations.
How to Make This Paper Gingerbread Man Craft
Prepare the template and paper pieces.
Start by printing out the gingerbread person template on cardstock or colored paper. Rip brown construction paper into small pieces for the gingerbread’s body. Tear white paper for icing, and a few small colored pieces for the bow, buttons, and face. Spread glue on the body section of the template and stick the brown torn pieces down until it’s covered.
Add the details and decorations.
Glue the white torn paper onto the hands and feet to look like icing trim. Use small torn pieces to create the bow, buttons, eyes, and smile.
Creative Ideas for Making and Enjoying Your Gingerbread Activity
This torn paper gingerbread craft is super flexible, so have fun with it! Here are a few ideas to spark creativity and make it your own:
- Mix up your paper choices. Instead of construction paper, try other options. Cardstock, scrapbook paper, or even wrapping paper scraps are cool choices.
- Think beyond brown! Try pastel paper for a winter wonderland look. Or go with bold colors for a fun twist on the classic gingerbread person.
- Make a gingerbread family. Print several templates and create a whole crew. For a neat learning extension, name them and write little stories about each one!
- Create several torn paper gingerbread characters. Use tape to attach to ribbon or yarn for a DIY gingerbread garland.
- Want a sturdier gingerbread character? Use cardboard as the base!
Make The Holidays Brighter With This Cute Craft for Kids
This torn paper gingerbread craft is a delightful way to enjoy the holiday season with your kids. It’s low prep, mess-free, and full of creative fun. I encourage you to give it a try in your homeschool, classroom, or just because.
Ready to make your own? Grab the free printable torn paper gingerbread man template as an instant download. Simply click, print, and start creating!
What ideas do you have for making and decorating your paper gingerbread man craft? And do you have any question? Please share in the comments area at the bottom of this post!
