The holiday season is upon us, and that means our mischievous Elf on the Shelf is gearing up for another round of festive antics. I find either moms love or hate the elf! Which are you?
If you're looking to add an extra touch of magic to your Elf on the Shelf adventures this year, why not try making your own DIY Elf on the Shelf binoculars? This simple and fun craft will not only enhance your elf's spying abilities but also provide a delightful hands-on activity for you and your family. This is super easy and my 3 thought this was hilarious!!.
Let's dive into the steps of creating these funny binoculars and bring a new level of excitement to your holiday traditions.
Use what you have in the house! I went and raided the craft bins to find everything I needed.. but if you don't see what you need you can easily pivot and use something you do have. I also have suggestions for you if you don't find the materials listed.
Materials Needed:
Two empty toilet paper rolls (or 1 paper towel roll cut in half)
Tape or glue. ( I used tape)
2-3 Pipe cleaners (or sting)
Craft foam or construction paper ( I used leftover easter egg Craft Foam from easter - easter eggs were about the perfect size, or you can use clear plastic wrap)
Large Googly eyes (optional)- If you don't have then use construction paper and draw a set of eyes)
Decorative embellishments (glitter, stickers, etc.) (Optional)
Pre-work: Gather Your Materials. Ensure you have all the necessary materials at hand. Raid your craft supplies, recycle bin, and perhaps even your child's art station to gather toilet paper rolls, tape, glue, and any other decorative elements you'd like to incorporate.
Decide if you will be using googly eyes or drawing your own. If you don't find a set of medium to large eyes then just trace the outside of the tube 2 circles cut off the circles and draw eyes. Here is a video with some easy ideas for eyes if you are going to draw them.
Step 1: Cover up one end of the toilet paper roll. Either using the Craft Foam, construction paper, or plastic wrap. Tape your chosen material so that one end is covered and cut off any excess. (repeat with the other roll)
Step 2: Tape on googly eyes or eyes you drew to each roll on the covered end.
Step 3: Lay rolls side by side and wrap with 1st pipe cleaner or string (repeat if desired)
Step 4: Take the elf's arms and wrap them around the binoculars on each side with another pipe cleaner. Make sure to attach them with the eyes facing away from the elf. If you have the eye next to the elf's body you will need to turn the binoculars around. (see photo below)
Step 5: Place elf in the house and enjoy!
I have a few extra and optional steps below.
Step 6: Optional- If you want to take an extra pipe cleaner and wrap the elf body to that last pipe cleaner it will give it more stability. Wrap the pipe cleaner around the elf pass it through the last pipe cleaner and wrap it around together to attach (Make sure this is hidden from sight. I used orange to blend better and he was up high so the kids didn't see it)
Step 7: Also Optional- You can color with markers or add any embellishment you want.
Tips: Find a spot where the elf can lean its arms or on the binoculars. We used the TV and it worked great. But also a shelf might also work! That way you don't need to attach the binoculars directly to the elf's head. (See photo below) If you can't find a spot like this you might need to add a glue dot to attach to the elfs head.
With these DIY Elf on the Shelf binoculars, you've not only added a delightful craft to your holiday festivities but also created a whimsical accessory that will enhance the magic of this beloved tradition. Get ready for your Elf on the Shelf to embark on new adventures with their binoculars, bringing joy and wonder to your home this holiday season. Happy crafting!
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