How do you inspire a fresh take on traditional Christmas icons? For Hallmark Art Director Jessica B. and Master Artist Gary H., it was all about the sugar. They kicked off their holiday project at a table covered with every kind of sweet treat imaginable: gum drops, peppermints, sanding sugar, sprinkles, marshmallows, and more. The challenge: Create classic characters with candy. (We think this candy Christmas craft would be a perfect project for kids, too.)
Candy Christmas craft supplies
- Candy: Hit up a bulk candy store and get a little bit of everything. Look for a variety of shapes and colors.
- Cookie decorations: Sanding sugar, jimmies, sprinkles, coconut—again, variety is key.
- Other treats: Cookies, cupcakes, Rice Krispies Treats, tiny donuts. Bonus points for snacks that look snowy.
- Icing: Tubes of gel and decorative icing are great for adding details and holding pieces together.
- Baking supplies: Cardboard circles make perfect canvases. Festive cupcake liners come in handy, too.
- Craft supplies in seasonal colors: Grab some paper, pipe cleaners, toothpicks, felt, markers, and paint pens.
- Tools: Think scissors, knives, pliers, tweezers.
Making things is more fun with friends. We love working in groups for a few different reasons:
- It’s easy to get inspired when there are talented people doing cool things on all sides.
- Problem solving is as simple as saying, “I’m stuck! Any advice?”
- So. Much. Laughing.
Seriously with this jaunty hat.
Snow people were varied and plentiful. And just ridiculously adorable.
Just stop it with this snowman and its self-portrait.
It’s a snow puppy. A. Snow. Puppy.
We cannot get enough of this pretty snow lady and her sweet collar and crown.
This angel critter, you guys.
We love all the different ways the artists made scarves—licorice twists, felt, pipe cleaners.
Another candy doggo. We cannot.
IT IS A SNOWMAN BOBSLED ON A MARSHMALLOW MOUNTAIN AND WE ARE DONE.
Looking for more Christmas craft inspiration? Check out Hallmark artists’ creative takes on gingerbread houses, paper ornaments, and more. And, as always, show us what you do on Instagram and Facebook.
Photography by Ty Hester.