There's something magical about capturing a child's innocence during the holiday season, and what better way to do it than with handprint ornaments that double as jolly Santas? In this step-by-step guide, we'll embark on a festive crafting adventure to create personalized salt dough handprint ornaments that will add a touch of Santa's cheer to your Christmas tree.

Ingredients and Materials:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup salt

- 1 cup warm water

- Rolling pin

- Knife or Cookie Cutter

- Acrylic paints (red, white, black)

- Paintbrushes

- Cotton balls

- Straw

- Ribbon or twine

- Clear sealant spray or modge podge (optional)

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

Begin by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add warm water and knead until a smooth dough forms. The tactile experience of working with the dough is a great opportunity for your little ones to get involved in the creative process.  It may take a little bit to get all the ingredients incorporated.

Step 2: Creating Handprint Santas

Roll out the salt dough on a floured surface, a good thickness is a half inch or less if you like thinner ornaments.  Then press your child's hand onto the dough with their fingers closer together and thumb pointed out to the side. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut around the handprint, leaving a neat silhouette.  Smooth out rough areas around the edges since once these have hardened they can become sharp.  Make a hole near the top to later use to hang, pressing a straw into the dough makes a perfect circle, or else you can use a knife to cut a circle.

Step 3: Baking

Place the handprint ornaments on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) for 2-3 hours until fully dry and hardened. Remember, slow baking prevents cracking.

Step 4: Painting

Once the ornaments have cooled, it's time to turn those handprints into jolly old St. Nick. Paint the base of the hand and thumb red for the hat.  Use skin colored paint for a face on the middle of the palm.  If you want you can also use green to go around the outside of the hand to really have it stand out. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Adding Santa's Details

Using white paint, add the iconic fluffy beard and trim on Santa's hat. Let your little artists use their tiny fingers or a small brush to add the finishing touches. Paint on Santa's eyes using black paint, and don't forget the rosy cheeks for that extra festive charm.  A pro tip is to use paint markers for fine details

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the paint has dried, seal the ornaments with a clear spray if desired. Add child’s name on the back with the year and/or their age.  Attach a ribbon or twine through the hole for hanging, and your adorable handprint Santa ornaments are ready to adorn the tree.

Crafting Santa-themed handprint ornaments is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday spirit and create lasting memories with your little ones. These personalized treasures not only showcase your child's growth but also add a festive touch to your Christmas tree. Get ready to hear the jingle of Santa's bells as you hang these joyful keepsakes, reminding you of the magic that fills your home during this special season. Happy crafting, and may your tree be merry and bright!