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Paper Plate Valentine’s Day Gnome Craft

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Turn ordinary paper plates into these whimsical Valentines Day gnomes!
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A paper plate valentine gnome decorated with cotton balls, red and pink drizzle, heart confetti, and a paper hat. The background features felt hearts and crafting supplies—a perfect DIY project for Valentine’s Day!.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and I know many kids are getting excited to show their love and appreciation for friends, family members, teachers and more with creative handmade valentines or gifts.

While store-bought cards and gifts can certainly do the trick, there’s nothing more heartwarming than a special handmade creation.

A paper plate valentine gnome decorated with cotton balls, red and pink drizzle, heart confetti, and a paper hat. The background features felt hearts and crafting supplies—a perfect DIY project for Valentine’s Day!.

In this post, I’m sharing an easy yet adorable paper plate & cotton ball gnome craft that your little ones are sure to enjoy making.

Gnomes are whimsical creatures that represent friendship, joy and bringing a smile to others – making them the perfect symbol of spreading Valentine’s cheer.

With just a few basic items likely already in your home, this gnome craft allows kids to flex their creativity while learning fine motor skills.

Best of all, the finished gnomes are cute and personalized tokens of affection that any Valentine will treasure. Read on for the simple step-by-step instructions to craft your own love-spreading paper plate gnome!

A paper plate valentine gnome decorated with cotton balls, red and pink drizzle, heart confetti, and a paper hat. The background features felt hearts and crafting supplies—a perfect DIY project for Valentine’s Day!.

Turn ordinary paper plates into these whimsical Valentines Day gnomes. A fun, easy craft that lets kids’ creativity shine through. Guaranteed to warm your heart!

Craft Supplies:

  • SMALL Paper Plate
  • White Cotton Balls
  • School Glue
  • Glitter Glue
  • Chunky Heart Glitter
  • Brown Cardstock Paper
  • White Cardstock Paper
  • Gnome Hat Printable – on our landing page
  • Crayons or Markers
  • Scissors
  • Sticker Embellishments

Directions:

  • First things first – making the gnome’s beard. Go ahead and cover the paper plate in school glue.
  • Layer the cotton balls on top of the school glue until the plate is completely covered.
  • At this point in time you should also add several swirls on glitter glue on top of the fluffy stuff, as well as chunky heart glitter too.
  • When done decorating the paper plate beard, set it aside to let it dry completely.
  • Next up – the paper elements that will bring your valentine gnome to life. Go ahead and grab your remaining paper pieces and the scissors.
  • Color in one of the hat designs in the provided printable and then trim it out. For added flair add heart stickers to his hat.
  • Out of the remaining brown cardstock paper, cut out a large oval nose.
  • Finally – the last step! Go ahead and glue the hat and nose piece to the decorated paper plate.
  • Add any other embellishments you see fit and display your gnome Valentine’s Day craft proudly for all to see!

RELATED —> Gnome Matter What Keepsake

A paper plate valentine gnome decorated with cotton balls, red and pink drizzle, heart confetti, and a paper hat. The background features felt hearts and crafting supplies—a perfect DIY project for Valentine’s Day!.

Love this paper plate Valentine’s Day gnome craft idea? Be sure to also check out our Gnome Photo Ornament tutorial for another fun lovestruck themed idea to pair along and make this month!! #gluedtomycrafts

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A paper plate valentine gnome decorated with cotton balls, red and pink drizzle, heart confetti, and a paper hat. The background features felt hearts and crafting supplies—a perfect DIY project for Valentine’s Day!.
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Paper Plate Valentine's Day Gnome Craft

Turn ordinary paper plates into these whimsical Valentines Day gnomes!

Here’s your checklist of supplies to bring this craft to life:

Prepare your creative haven by laying down a protective cover before the crafting magic begins!

Directions:

  • First things first - making the gnome's beard. Go ahead and cover the paper plate in school glue.
  • Layer the cotton balls on top of the school glue until the plate is completely covered.
  • At this point in time you should also add several swirls on glitter glue on top of the fluffy stuff, as well as chunky heart glitter too.
  • When done decorating the paper plate beard, set it aside to let it dry completely.
  • Next up - the paper elements that will bring your valentine gnome to life. Go ahead and grab your remaining paper pieces and the scissors.
  • Color in one of the hat designs in the provided printable and then trim it out. For added flair add heart stickers to his hat.
  • Out of the remaining brown cardstock paper, cut out a large oval nose.
  • Finally - the last step! Go ahead and glue the hat and nose piece to the decorated paper plate.
  • Add any other embellishments you see fit and display your gnome Valentine's Day craft proudly for all to see!
    A paper plate valentine gnome decorated with cotton balls, red and pink drizzle, heart confetti, and a paper hat. The background features felt hearts and crafting supplies—a perfect DIY project for Valentine’s Day!.
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Craft Activity Safety Guidelines:

Always Ensure Adult Supervision - Young children should be supervised at all times when engaging in craft activities. This is essential to keep them safe and ensure materials are used correctly. Use Age-Appropriate Supplies - Choose craft supplies that are suitable for your child’s age. Check labels for recommendations and avoid items with small parts or sharp edges for younger children. Modify as Needed - Feel free to adapt materials or steps to meet your child's abilities and safety needs. For example, substitute scissors with safety scissors if necessary. Keep an Eye on Allergies - Be mindful of potential allergens in craft materials like glue, paint, or certain fabrics. Opt for non-toxic and hypoallergenic options whenever possible. Organize and Secure Supplies - Keep all craft tools and materials organized. Store sharp objects, small parts, and potentially hazardous items out of reach when not in use. Following these guidelines will ensure that crafts remain fun, creative, and, most importantly, safe for everyone involved!