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Cotton Pad Wreath Craft Tutorial: Christmas Wreath Crafts for Kids

  • Gina
  • Nov 30, 2024
  • 2 min read

In this BLOG post I will teach you how to make a cotton pad wreath.

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Looking for a holiday craft that’s both fun and mesmerizing?


This Cotton Pad Wreath combines art and a little science to create a vibrant decoration that kids and adults will love.


Using food coloring and water, you’ll watch colors bloom across soft cotton pads, turning a simple cardboard ring into a stunning holiday masterpiece.


Materials:

  • Round cotton pads (flat cosmetic pads work best)

  • Cardboard (cut into a wreath ring)

  • Liquid food coloring (red, green or a mix of blue and yellow)

  • Small cups of water

  • Pipette or medicine dropper

  • Glue stick or white glue

  • Ribbon for hanging


If you don't want to use cardboard, you can use a paper plate with the center cut out.

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Step 1: Make Your Wreath Base

  • Cut a large circle out of cardboard.

  • Cut out the center to make a ring shape.


Step 2: Glue the Cotton Pads

  • Arrange cotton pads around the cardboard ring.

  • Glue them down so they slightly overlap for a fluffy look.


Step 3: Add Color Magic

  • Mix a few drops of food coloring with water in small cups.

  • Use a dropper or straw to gently drop colored water onto each cotton pad.

  • Watch the colors spread and blend—like tie-dye snowflakes!


Step 4: Let It Dry

  • Allow the wreath to dry completely.


Step 5: Decorate & Hang

  • Add a ribbon bow or loop to hang your wreath.

  • Optional: Add glitter, sequins, or stickers for extra sparkle.

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Variations:

  • Use holiday colors like red, green, and gold for a festive look.

  • Try cool tones like blue and silver for a winter wonderland theme.

  • Let kids experiment with color mixing—it's a great STEAM moment!


Why it is a hit with kids:

This craft is sensory-rich, visually stunning, and easy to make. The cotton pads absorb and blend colors beautifully, creating a watercolor effect that’s unique every time. It’s a great way to explore creativity while making something beautiful for the holidays.


A few important notes:

This takes a LONG time to dry and depending on how heavy-handed the child is with the water, the cardboard may get completely soaked through.


I suggest starting slow with the amount of water/food coloring that you give them.


Put a tray or baking sheet underneath to catch spills and any drippage.


After they are done adding the water mixture, use a paper towel to soak up any extra drips.


Let it dry a full 24 hours before hanging up!


Looking for more Christmas Crafts? Check these out!



Comments


Hi, I'm Gina!

I have over 20 years experience in education, and I am a sensory play advocate and play enthusiast.

I have a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a CAGS in Early Childhood. I am also a mom to four sweet kids!

My mission is to teach you how to incorporate simple, impactful, hands-on activities into your day.

I share sensory experiences, learning opportunities and ways to keep your kids engaged and learning through PLAY.

 

Join us, as together, we provide our children and students with a play-filled life.

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You get to decide what is safe and manageable in your home, classroom or therapy space.  Always monitor children for safety.

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