Winter is the time of year when we spend more time at home. Whether it's because of the cold outside, the shorter days or because we have a cold, it's an ideal time to do some exercise. winter crafts for kids with recycled materials.
Crafting not only keeps the little ones entertained, but also instills important values such as recycling and respect for the environment. In addition, we can take advantage of the opportunity to decorate our home in a creative and seasonal way, reusing those materials that we would normally throw away.
In this article you will find a selection of ideas for winter crafts using recycled materials. These activities are not only educational, but they also encourage children's creativity and are perfect for sharing moments with the family.
Winter crafts for children with recycled materials
Snowman with disposable plate

Disposable plates, which we sometimes use and throw away without thinking, can become fun snowmen. And if you make several, you can create a garland that gives a wintery touch to any space.
Necessary materials:
- Disposable plates
- Tape
- Colored cardboard and paper
- Movable plastic eyes
- Glue and scissors
Instructions: To start, tape two disposable plates together, one up and one down. Then, cut out pieces of cardstock and colored paper to make buttons, scarves, mittens, and other accessories. Glue these pieces onto the plates and don't forget to add some googly eyes to bring your snowman to life. It's a simple idea, but very decorative!
Snowman with cupcake liners
This is a very original and visually attractive option that will give a special touch to any corner of the house.
Necessary materials:
- light blue cardboard
- White paper cupcake cases
- Paper cutouts for nose and arms
- Buttons
- Glue and scissors
Instructions: Glue two cupcake cases on a light blue cardboard, one on top of the other. Then, cut out paper and fabric to make details like the carrot nose, scarf and arms. Finally, add buttons for eyes and simulate snowflakes in the background. The result will be a nice collage that you can hang on the wall.
Snowman made from cardboard egg cups
Cardboard egg cartons are an ideal recycled material for creating 3D figures, in this case, a cute snowman that children can personalize.
Necessary materials:
- Cardboard egg cartons
- White and colored paint
- black markers
- Mobile eyes
- Pom Poms and other decorations
Instructions: Cut out the egg cartons to create circular shapes that will be the snowman's body. Paint them white and let them dry. Then, glue them one on top of the other and decorate with markers or paint for the details (eyes, mouth, buttons). Add accessories such as scarves or hats made from recycled colored fabric.
cardboard snowman

Cardboard tubes from toilet paper or kitchen paper, which we normally throw away, can be transformed into snowmen. The best thing about this craft is that it is easy, inexpensive and very fun for the little ones.
Necessary materials:
- Cardboard tube
- White paper
- orange cardboard
- silver wrapping paper
- Mobile eyes
- Glue and scissors
Instructions: Cover the cardboard tube with white paper. Then, draw eyes, buttons and a mouth with a black marker. Cut a small triangle out of orange cardboard to simulate the nose. Finally, use wrapping paper to make the scarf. Once ready, you can add little details like sticks for the arms!
This type of craft is not only accessible, but also very educational, as it teaches children to give a second life to materials that we commonly throw away.
Recycled snowman with plastic cups
Another creative option is to make snowmen out of disposable plastic cups. This craft is perfect for decorating large spaces, such as gardens or entrances.
Necessary materials:
- Plastic cups
- Stapler
- Colour cardboard
- Fabric for the scarf
Instructions: Place the cups in circles and staple them together to form a sphere. Repeat the process to make the top of the doll. Once both parts are joined, decorate with cardboard for the eyes, nose and buttons. You can add a scarf and a hat to give it a more personal touch.
Cotton cloud
If you want to simulate snow inside your home, a fantastic idea is to make clouds with cotton. This craft is ideal for decorating walls or ceilings, adding a snowy touch to the environment.
Necessary materials:
- Cotton
- Scissors
- Glue
Instructions: Simply gather a few cotton balls and stick them to walls or ceilings to simulate snowflakes. You can add glitter or use small LED lights to create a luminous effect.
This activity is easy and inexpensive, but it has a charming effect, perfect for decorating any space during the winter season.

Not only are these crafts perfect for keeping kids entertained during the winter, they also encourage creativity and teach them the value of recycling. Opting for activities that reuse materials is not only economical, but it also helps us take care of the planet while having fun.