Top 8 Diwali Crafts Ideas for Kids: Easy and Fun Projects

Diwali is a festival of lights, so all creative juices can be let loose and enjoyed through fun and engaging crafts. This will hold the minds of children, keep them engaged, but also teach them about the importance of this festival while honing their artistic skills. From colorful decorations to festively wrapped gifts, these craft ideas for Diwali are easy and enjoyably done so that everyone can share in the celebration!

Here are eight fun and creative Diwali craft projects designed for your children. Of course, each activity is sure to spark creativity and the festive spirit. So let’s dive in and get crafting!

How Do People Celebrate Diwali? 

Diwali, also called the Festival of Lights, marks fervour among people in all parts of India and in almost every nook and corner of the world. This glittering festival marks the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil. Families prepare for weeks; clean their homes, colourfully decorate rangoli, and buy new clothes. The festivities build as family members start assembling together to celebrate the various rituals and traditions associated with Diwali.

On Diwali, families move to solicit blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, who loves wealth and progress through worship or prayers. Homes become glowing with the lanterns and colorful lights so that being indoors will not seem a bad idea as it is awaiting dusk. Families celebrate Diwali by blowing up in the night air and then gorge on delectable sweets and snacks in the twilight. Togetherness is the spirit of Diwali celebrations, where friends and relatives have fun exchanging gifts and good wishes to spread joy and happiness.

Top 8 Diwali Crafts Ideas for Kids

Crafting during Diwali is not just a way to keep children entertained; it’s an opportunity to teach them about the festival’s rich traditions and significance. These engaging projects promote creativity, enhance fine motor skills, and create lasting memories for the family. Here are eight detailed Diwali craft ideas that will keep your kids happily occupied while celebrating this vibrant festival!

1. Decorative Diyas

Craft Idea:

Making decorative diyas is a cherished Diwali tradition. Kids can transform simple clay or terracotta diyas into colorful masterpieces, which can be lit during the festival or gifted to loved ones. This craft helps children understand the symbolism of light in Diwali while honing their artistic skills.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Clay or terracotta diyas
• Acrylic paints in various colors
• Paintbrushes (various sizes)
• Glitter (optional for extra sparkle)
• Sealing varnish (optional for protection)
• Tea light candles or oil (for filling)

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Begin with clean clay or terracotta diyas. If you’re using clay, shape them into small lamps and allow them to dry thoroughly according to the package instructions.

Step 2: Set up a crafting area with newspaper or an old cloth to protect surfaces from paint.

Step 3: Provide kids with acrylic paints and paintbrushes. Encourage them to paint the diyas in bright, vibrant colors, creating unique patterns and designs.

Step 4: If desired, sprinkle glitter on the wet paint to add a sparkling effect. This will make the diyas even more festive!

Step 5: Allow the paint to dry completely. If you’ve used clay, make sure it’s fully hardened before painting.

Step 6: For added durability, apply a layer of sealing varnish to protect the paint from chipping.

Step 7: Once dry, place tea light candles inside the diyas or fill them with oil and a wick.

Step 8: Light the diyas during Diwali celebrations, placing them around your home to illuminate your space and symbolize the victory of light over darkness.

2. Rangoli Designs

Craft Idea:

Rangoli is an age-old tradition of creating intricate designs on the floor using colored powders, rice, or flower petals to welcome guests and deities. Kids will enjoy expressing their creativity and learning about this beautiful art form, which adds color and warmth to the festival.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Colored rice, flour, or powdered colors (available in stores)
• Small bowls for each color
• A flat surface (like a porch or entryway)
• Optional: Stencils or templates for guidance

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Choose a flat surface where you’d like to create the rangoli design, ideally near the entrance of your home.

Step 2: If using stencils or templates, place them down to outline your design.

Step 3: Pour different colored rice or powders into small bowls, allowing children to pick their favorite colors for the design.

Step 4: Starting from the center or an edge, encourage kids to sprinkle the colored material according to the design. They can freely create their own patterns if they prefer!

Step 5: Encourage them to blend colors and experiment with various shapes and lines as they work, adding a personal touch.

Step 6: Once complete, admire the beautiful rangoli! Explain to your children its significance in welcoming positive energy and prosperity during Diwali.

3. Paper Lanterns

Craft Idea:

Creating paper lanterns is a fun and straightforward craft that adds a festive glow to your home. Kids can experiment with different colors and patterns, making their lanterns uniquely special. These lanterns can be hung indoors or outdoors, contributing to the festive ambiance.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Colored construction paper (various colors)
• Scissors
• Glue or tape
• LED tea lights (for safety)
• Ruler
• Pencil

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Begin with a sheet of colored construction paper. Choose a vibrant color that resonates with the festival’s spirit.

Step 2: Use a ruler to measure and mark lines 1 inch apart along one of the shorter edges of the paper, leaving about 2 inches at the top as a border.

Step 3: Carefully cut along the marked lines, stopping at the top edge to create fringes. Make sure not to cut through the top part.

Step 4: Roll the paper into a cylinder shape and secure the ends with glue or tape.

Step 5: Fold the top edge down to create a decorative border and cut a piece of paper to form a handle, attaching it to the top.

Step 6: Place an LED tea light inside the lantern for safety. If using real candles, ensure adult supervision.

Step 7: Hang the lanterns around your home or yard, allowing the soft glow to enhance your Diwali celebrations!

4. Diwali Greeting Cards

Craft Idea:

Making Diwali greeting cards is a wonderful way for kids to share the joy and warmth of the festival with friends and family. This craft allows them to express their creativity while learning the importance of kindness and good wishes during this special time.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Blank cards or cardstock (various colors)
• Colored markers or crayons
• Diwali-themed stickers (like diyas, fireworks, etc.)
• Glitter glue or regular glitter
• Ribbon (optional)
• Envelopes for gifting

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Start with blank cards or cut cardstock to your desired size. Encourage kids to choose their favorite colors for the base.

Step 2: Let kids decorate the front of the card using colored markers, crayons, and stickers. Encourage them to draw Diwali symbols, such as diyas, fireworks, or traditional motifs.

Step 3: Add glitter glue for a festive touch. This will make the cards sparkle and shine!

Step 4: Inside the card, help them write heartfelt messages or Diwali greetings, like “Wishing you joy and prosperity this Diwali!”

Step 5: If desired, tie a ribbon around the card for a beautiful presentation.

Step 6: Place the cards in envelopes and encourage kids to deliver them to friends and family or hang them around the house as festive decorations.

5. Beaded Diwali Garlands

Craft Idea:

Creating beaded garlands is a delightful and easy craft that enhances fine motor skills while allowing children to make beautiful decorations for Diwali. These garlands can be hung around the home, adding a festive touch to your celebration.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Colorful beads (wooden, plastic, or foam)
• String or yarn (strong enough to hold beads)
• Scissors
• Tape (optional, to secure ends)

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Cut a length of string or yarn to your desired garland length. Leave a little extra at each end for tying.

Step 2: Tie a knot at one end of the string to prevent beads from slipping off.

Step 3: Allow children to thread colorful beads onto the string, encouraging them to create patterns or mix colors creatively.

Step 4: Once they reach the desired length, tie a knot at the end of the string to secure the beads in place.

Step 5: Hang the beaded garlands around your home, draping them over doors, windows, or along staircases for an eye-catching display.

6. Diwali Sweets Boxes

Craft Idea:

Creating decorative boxes for Diwali sweets is both a thoughtful and practical craft that allows kids to engage in festive giving. These boxes can store homemade treats or be gifted to friends and family, adding a personal touch to your Diwali celebrations.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Small cardboard boxes (like shoeboxes or empty gift boxes)
• Colored paper or wrapping paper
• Glue or tape
• Scissors
• Decorative items (stickers, ribbons, glitter, etc.)

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Start with clean, small cardboard boxes. If you have larger boxes, cut them down to a smaller size suitable for treat boxes.

Step 2: Wrap the boxes in colored or decorative paper, securing it with glue or tape.

Step 3: Allow kids to decorate the boxes with stickers, glitter, and ribbons. This personalization adds an extra special touch.

Step 4: Fill the decorated boxes with homemade Diwali sweets or treats, like ladoos or barfis.

Step 5: Present these sweet boxes to friends and family during your Diwali gatherings, spreading joy and festive cheer.

H3: 7. Glittery Diwali Wall Hangings

Craft Idea:

Creating glittery wall hangings is a fantastic way to add sparkle to your home during Diwali. Kids will love making unique designs that reflect their personality, contributing to the festive atmosphere.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Cardstock or thick paper (various colors)
• Glitter glue or loose glitter
• Scissors
• String or ribbon
• Markers or colored pencils
  

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Cut cardstock into various shapes, such as stars, hearts, or traditional Diwali motifs (like peacocks or diyas).

Step 2: Allow kids to decorate the shapes with glitter glue or sprinkle loose glitter onto wet glue for a shimmering effect.

Step 3: Once the decorations dry, punch a hole at the top of each shape using a hole punch or sharp object.

Step 4: Cut a length of string or ribbon and thread it through the hole, tying a knot to secure it.

Step 5: Hang the glittery wall hangings around your home, brightening up your space and showcasing your children’s creativity!

8. Clay Diwali Decorations

Craft Idea:

Using air-dry clay to create Diwali decorations is an engaging and artistic project for kids. They can shape various items like diyas, figurines, or traditional motifs, allowing their creativity to shine while crafting beautiful keepsakes for the festival.

Materials You Will Need for This Craft:

• Air-dry clay (available at craft stores)
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters or molds (optional)
• Acrylic paints
• Paintbrushes (various sizes)
• Sealing varnish (optional for added protection)

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Start by giving kids a portion of air-dry clay. Encourage them to roll it out using a rolling pin, ensuring it’s about half an inch thick.

Step 2: Use cookie cutters or molds to shape the clay into various designs, or let kids mold their own unique items by hand (like diyas or ornaments).

Step 3: Allow the shaped clay to dry completely, following the package instructions (usually 24 hours).

Step 4: Once dry, kids can paint their creations with acrylic paints, bringing their designs to life with bright colors.

Step 5: If desired, apply a layer of sealing varnish once the paint dries to protect the decorations from wear and tear.

Step 6: Display the clay decorations around your home for Diwali, showcasing your kids’ creativity and adding a personal touch to your celebrations.

Related Blog: Top 10 Diwali Activities for Kids: Fun and Festive Ideas

Few Tips for Crafting with Kids

Crafting with kids during Diwali can be a joyful and rewarding experience, allowing for creativity to flourish while teaching valuable skills. To ensure that the crafting process is fun and engaging, it’s essential to create an inviting atmosphere and provide guidance. Here are some helpful tips to make your crafting sessions enjoyable and successful!

• Choose Age-Appropriate Projects: Select crafts that match the age and skill level of your children to keep them engaged without causing frustration.
• Gather All Materials First: Prepare by gathering all the necessary materials before starting the project. This will help keep the process organized and minimize interruptions.
• Set Up a Crafting Space: Designate a specific area for crafting, such as a table covered with newspapers or a craft mat, to contain mess and encourage focus.
• Encourage Creativity: Allow kids to express their creativity by encouraging them to personalize their crafts. There are no strict rules, so let them experiment with colors and designs.
• Be Patient and Supportive: Crafting can be a learning process. Be patient and supportive, offering guidance when needed, but also allowing children to make decisions on their own.
• Incorporate Learning: Use crafting time as an opportunity to teach kids about Diwali traditions, symbols, and values, making the experience educational as well as fun.
• Celebrate Their Creations: Display completed crafts proudly around the home to celebrate their efforts and boost their confidence.
• Enjoy the Process: Remember that the primary goal is to have fun! Enjoy the time spent together, share stories, and create lasting memories as you craft.

FAQs About Diwali Crafts Ideas for Kids

Crafting during Diwali is a wonderful way for kids to engage with the festival’s traditions and express their creativity. Here are some frequently asked questions to help guide your crafting adventures!

Q1. What are some fun Diwali crafts to make with paper?

There are plenty of fun paper crafts for Diwali! Kids can create colorful paper lanterns, greeting cards with festive messages, and intricate rangoli designs using colored paper. They can also make paper garlands and decorative wall hangings, which add a vibrant touch to your home decor.

Q2. What is a safe way for kids to decorate diyas for Diwali?

A safe way for kids to decorate diyas is to use non-toxic acrylic paints and glitter. Encourage them to use brushes instead of their fingers to minimize mess and provide supervision to avoid spills. For added safety, opt for LED tea lights instead of oil candles when displaying their creations.

Q3. What are some easy Diwali crafts for kids?

Some easy Diwali crafts for kids include making paper lanterns, decorating diyas, and creating rangoli designs using colored rice or powders. Other simple projects include crafting greeting cards and beaded garlands, which allow kids to engage with the festival’s spirit without requiring advanced skills.

Q4. What types of colors and paints are best for Diwali crafts?

Non-toxic acrylic paints are ideal for Diwali crafts, as they come in vibrant colors and are safe for kids. Additionally, watercolors and washable markers can be great for paper crafts. For added sparkle, glitter glue can be used to embellish designs, while colored powders are perfect for rangoli.

Q5. What are some last-minute Diwali craft ideas for kids?

If you’re short on time, consider quick crafts like decorating pre-made diyas with paint or stickers, making simple greeting cards, or creating colorful paper chains. Kids can also whip up some festive bookmarks using colored paper, which can be a thoughtful gift or a personal keepsake for the festival.

Conclusion

Diwali is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, and crafting with kids adds an extra layer of fun to the festivities. These creative projects not only allow children to express their artistic abilities but also help them understand the cultural significance of the festival. Whether it’s decorating diyas, making vibrant rangoli, or creating heartfelt greeting cards, each craft brings families closer and fills homes with the spirit of Diwali.

As you embark on these crafting adventures, remember to cherish the moments spent together. The laughter, creativity, and shared experiences will create lasting memories that you and your children will treasure for years to come. Happy crafting and a joyful Diwali to all!