There’s something magical about the summer holidays in Australia, the end of a school year, and everyone is well in need of a break plus its Christmas too! Ooh the twinkle of fairy lights, the smell of barbecues, the sound of cicadas all makes the long summer holidays stretching ahead fun. It’s time for families to come together, relax, and celebrate. And what better way to capture that spirit than by making something with your own hands?
Creating art and crafts together isn’t just fun, it’s also a brilliant way to strengthen family bonds, spark imagination, and make meaningful memories. Plus, homemade gifts and decorations carry that special touch of love you simply can’t buy in a shop.
As an artist and art therapist, I believe creativity has a way of bringing people closer. So, here are some fun and easy creative activities the whole family can try this festive season.
Creative Christmas on a budget
- Painted Shell Ornaments
Head to the beach, collect some shells, give them a rinse, and then paint them in festive colours or patterns. Add a bit of ribbon with glue and — voilà! — you’ve got beautiful, beachy decorations for the Christmas tree.
- Handprint Wrapping Paper
Roll out some brown paper or use large sheets of scrap paper. Dip little hands (and big ones too!) in green and red paint and stamp them all over to create colourful wrapping paper. Write names or festive messages on top for that extra personal touch.
- Nature Wreaths
Go for a family walk and collect twigs, gum leaves, seed pods, or flowers. Use a cardboard circle as the base, glue or tie on your treasures, and you’ve made your very own Australian-style Christmas wreath.
- Handmade Clay Ornaments
Mix 1 cup of cornflour with 2 cups of bicarb soda and 1 cup of water, heat on a pan, mix well then wait until it cools to form a dough! Cut into festive shapes with cookie cutters, dry for 24 hours, and paint once hardened. These ornaments make perfect gifts for grandparents, friends or teachers or hang them on the tree, so many options!
- Gratitude Stars
Cut out star shapes from cardboard. On each one, write something you’re grateful for this year. Decorate with glitter, pens, or sequins, and hang them around the house. It’s a wonderful way to reflect on what really matters.
Why These Activities Matter
These aren’t just craft projects, they’re memory-makers. When families create together, children learn teamwork, patience, and pride in their work. Adults get to slow down, enjoy the moment, and reconnect with their inner child. And the gifts you make together carry something priceless: love, laughter, and time shared.
So this Christmas and summer holiday, swap the shopping crowds for paint pots, glue sticks, and a bit of messy fun. Make decorations that sparkle with personality, gifts that tell a story, and memories that will last long after the tree is packed away.
From my creative heart to yours, I wish you a season full of colour, connection, and joy.
Kerry Evitts, Artist & Art Therapist
