.:Hand carved and painted twigs that soon took on the likeness of St. Nicholas!:.
Small branches were gathered, carved, and painted in the likeness of St. Nicholas and tucked into each of the children's wooden clogs that were set out on the evening of this year's St. Nicholas day celebration.
On the morning of the celebration the children were brought such joy from discovering these sweet treasures and they soon became an important part of their play!
.: With a pocketknife I carved each twig to have a 'face' and 'hat' :.
I find it important for the little ones to witness mama or daddy creating with their hands, as it inspires them to do the same. Today we enjoyed creating a few more carved branches that soon grew into a little family of gnomes that will be shared with others in this season of giving!
.: I like to leave the face 'blank' so that the child may imagine the emotion she wishes :.
Step One:
Gather up your branches in the thickness you wish. Cut them to 6" lengths.
Step Two:
Carve the front piece of the branch to expose the inner wood and shape a face and beard for your new carved friend. Then carve upwards along the sides of the branch to make a pointed hat. Continue making slices in the branch until the tip is brought to a squared-off point.
.: Time to paint! We enjoyed painting hats and beards to bring these new friends to life! :.
Step Three:
For easy clean up a sheet of waxed paper was set out on our workspace. Two small drops of paint were used as a palette.
You and your littles will enjoy the next process of painting your hats. We themed this set to be a gnome family with red hats. For another inspiration you could try a family with rainbow hats. It would be lovely to use throughout the year as 'Waldorf inspired math gnomes' with the respective ( - + x = ) symbols painted on their chest.
.: The finished family of gnomes! Ready to bring cheer into the day! :.
The most enjoyable step of this project for both the children and I was the finishing touch of painting on beards for our new friends!
Now it is time to enjoy some time of play with your handmade friends!
Some of ours found their way into a wreath that sits upon the table. Others will enjoy hitching a ride on the tops of beautifully-wrapped gifts!
Enjoy this season of giving, creating, and nurturing memories with your family!
