Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

How to make a Scandinavian Tomte Christmas elf

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Welcome to this tutorial on how to make a cute and easy tomte Christmas elf! This little elf is not only adorable, but it is also simple to create, making it the perfect craft for kids to get involved in. Imagine creating a whole town of these sweet little elves, each with their own unique accessories and personal touches.

Not only can they be used as decorations, but they can also serve as charming present toppers for the holiday season. Follow along with the tutorial provided by tikkido, and in no time you’ll have your very own tomte Christmas elf to add to your holiday collection.

This little elf is beyond cute and best yet easy to make. I could see making a whole town of these little guys. Over a tikkido there is a tutorial on  how to make a tomte Christmas elf that can also be used a present topper.

A tomte, also known as a nisse, is a type of Scandinavian folklore creature associated with the winter solstice and the Christmas season. Tomtes are usually depicted as small, stout humanoid figures with pointed hats and beards, and they are traditionally associated with protecting farms and households. In some stories, they are mischievous and prone to causing trouble, but they are generally thought of as good-natured and helpful. In modern times, tomtes have become popular figures in Christmas decorations and celebrations, and they are often depicted as playful, festive elves.

 

 

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How To Make A Milk Carton Village – A Recycled Craft for Kids

Ready to turn your recycling bin into a colorful, miniature village? Grab those empty milk cartons and let’s create a town filled with tiny houses, shops, and even a school or bakery! This craft is perfect for kids of all ages and encourages imagination, storytelling, and eco-friendly creativity.

 What You’ll Need:

  • Empty milk or juice cartons (washed and dried)

  • Paints or markers

  • Paintbrushes

  • Craft glue or glue stick

  • Scissors (adult supervision recommended)

  • Colored paper or old magazines

  • Bottle caps, buttons, or plastic lids (for windows or decorations)

  • Sticks, straws, or skewers (for flag poles or chimneys)

  • Optional: glitter, stickers, washi tape, cotton balls (for snow or clouds!)

 Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Clean and Prep the Cartons
Make sure your milk or juice cartons are washed and completely dry. Remove any plastic lids or caps and keep them for decorations!

Step 2: Plan Your Village
Decide how many buildings you want to make. Each milk carton becomes a house, shop, or whatever your imagination dreams up. Arrange them side by side or in a circle like a real village square.

Step 3: Cut Out Doors and Windows
With the help of an adult, carefully cut small door and window shapes into your cartons. You can also glue cut-out shapes from colored paper if you’d rather not cut into the carton.

Step 4: Paint and Decorate
Use paint or markers to bring your buildings to life. Make brick patterns, colorful siding, or roof tiles. Let each child choose their own theme – rainbow bakery, monster house, fairy home, or tiny fire station!

Step 5: Add the Roofs
You can paint the top pointy part of the carton like a roof, or glue on cardboard triangles to create overhangs. Want to add a chimney? Glue a straw or cardboard roll on top!

Step 6: Make Flags and Signs
Cut small flags from recycled plastic or paper and tape them to straws or sticks. Glue your flags to the rooftops. You can even create tiny signs for each building – “Toy Store,” “Library,” or “Super Cat’s House.”

Step 7: Build Your Village
Place all the finished buildings together on a large piece of cardboard, tray, or table. Use bottle caps for stepping stones, cotton balls for bushes or clouds, and draw roads with marker.

Step 8: Play!
Now that your village is built, use little toys, action figures, or LEGO people to live in your new town. Create stories and adventures—your Milk Carton Village is officially open!

 Learning Bonus:

This craft is not just fun—it also teaches recycling, fine motor skills, creative thinking, and storytelling. Plus, it’s a great group activity for playdates, classrooms, or family craft nights.

Let your kids’ imaginations run wild—and remember, no two villages need to look the same. Each one tells its own story!