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Hot Chocolate Mug Photo Frame w/Handprint Steam

When engaging in craft activities, it is important for young children to have adult supervision at ALL times. It is also recommended to use supplies that are suitable for your child's age. Feel free to modify materials or steps to meet your specific requirements. Please refer to our safety guidelines for more information.

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Create a unique and personalized popsicle stick mug photo frame with this simple DIY tutorial. Perfect for preserving precious memories!
SKIP THE FLUFF AND PRINT THE DIRECTIONS
A homemade popsicle stick mug photo frame showcases a blue mug decorated with cotton ball marshmallows and glittery white paper steam, perfectly framing a black-and-white photo of a smiling boy.

A homemade popsicle stick mug photo frame showcases a blue mug decorated with cotton ball marshmallows and glittery white paper steam, perfectly framing a black-and-white photo of a smiling boy.

Nothing warms the heart more than a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a chilly day. Now, imagine combining that cozy feeling with a cherished memory, captured forever in a charming DIY photo frame.

Today’s Popsicle Stick Hot Chocolate Mug Photo Frame with Handprint Steam tutorial is more than just a craft project; it’s a delightful way to preserve memories while engaging in a fun, hands-on activity for the winter months.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or craft enthusiast, this guide will show you how to create a keepsake that captures both the warmth of hot cocoa and the joy of creativity.

A homemade popsicle stick mug photo frame showcases a blue mug decorated with cotton ball marshmallows and glittery white paper steam, perfectly framing a black-and-white photo of a smiling boy.

The simplicity and flexibility of this project make it a family favorite. It’s an excellent way to spend an afternoon together, fostering creativity and conversation.

Craft Supplies:

Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all the materials you’ll need. This project is simple and requires items that are likely already in your home or easily found at a local craft store.

  • FOUR Jumbo Popsicle Sticks
  • Hot Glue Gun {adult use only, please!}
  • Blue Craft Paint
  • Paint Brush
  • Scissors
  • Pencil
  • Blue Cardstock Paper
  • White Cardstock Paper
  • White Cotton Balls
  • Silver Glitter Glue
  • 4×6″ Color Picture

Directions:

  • ADULTS ONLY – Get the glue gun hot and ready.
  • Grab FOUR popsicle sticks.
  • Hot glue the base of your hot cocoa frame, in a square formation. This way you have an opening in the center for your picture.
  • Set it aside to let it dry a bit {instead of a hot glue gun, you can also use school glue but drying time takes longer.}
  • When it’s dry, it’s time for paint. Squirt some blue craft paint on a paper plate.
  • Have children paint the front of their popsicle stick shape completely blue.
  • Follow that up by having them add a line of cotton balls {the marshmallows} on side of the frame.
  • Set it aside.
  • Next trace your child’s hand on the white paper and cut it out to create the “steam.”
  • Go ahead and use the silver glitter to add some “steamy” dimension on the cutout.
  • Finally, out the remaining blue cardstock paper, cut out a simple “handle” shape for the mug.
  • Now for assembling. Start by gluing the picture in place inside the popsicle stick frame. You might have to trim your picture down a little to make it fit in the frame. Just use your scissors.
  • Follow that up by gluing the handprint cutout {fingertips going up} and the mug handle design to the back of the frame as well.
  • Once done decorating the popsicle stick mug picture frame and it’s completely dry, display it proudly for ALL to see. You can either prop it on a shelf as is or hot glue ribbon and/or magnets to the back!

RELATED —> Inside My Hot Cocoa Mug Craft

A children’s book titled “It’s Winter!” by Renée Kurilla features a child in winter clothes with a cat, snowflakes, a “LET IT SNOW” sign, and @GLUEDTOMYCRAFTS label—perfect inspiration for your next terra cotta pot snowman craft!.

AFFILIATE LINK – PAIR OUR CRAFT IDEA WITH THIS BOOK RECOMMENDATION

Crafting our unique “popsicle stick hot chocolate mug photo frame with handprint steam” tutorial is a delightful way to create a personalized keepsake while enjoying the creative process.

This project combines the versatility of popsicle sticks with the warmth and nostalgia of cherished memories, resulting in a charming and meaningful piece of art. Whether you’re crafting for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for others, this craft offers endless possibilities for customization and personalization.

BTW – if you are looking for even MORE winter themed craft ideas, be sure to check out these fun posts listed below. Happy crafting, my friends!

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A homemade popsicle stick mug photo frame showcases a blue mug decorated with cotton ball marshmallows and glittery white paper steam, perfectly framing a black-and-white photo of a smiling boy.
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Hot Chocolate Mug Photo Frame w/Handprint Steam

Create a unique and personalized popsicle stick mug photo frame with this simple DIY tutorial. Perfect for preserving precious memories!

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:

  • ADULTS ONLY - Get the glue gun hot and ready.
  • Grab FOUR popsicle sticks.
  • Hot glue the base of your hot cocoa frame, in a square formation. This way you have an opening in the center for your picture.
  • Set it aside to let it dry a bit {instead of a hot glue gun, you can also use school glue but drying time takes longer.}
  • When it's dry, it's time for paint. Squirt some blue craft paint on a paper plate.
  • Have children paint the front of their popsicle stick shape completely blue.
  • Follow that up by having them add a line of cotton balls {the marshmallows} on side of the frame.
  • Set it aside.
  • Next trace your child's hand on the white paper and cut it out to create the "steam."
  • Go ahead and use the silver glitter to add some "steamy" dimension on the cutout.
  • Finally, out the remaining blue cardstock paper, cut out a simple "handle" shape for the mug.
  • Now for assembling. Start by gluing the picture in place inside the popsicle stick frame. You might have to trim your picture down a little to make it fit in the frame. Just use your scissors.
  • Follow that up by gluing the handprint cutout {fingertips going up} and the mug handle design to the back of the frame as well.
  • Once done decorating the popsicle stick mug picture frame and it's completely dry, display it proudly for ALL to see. You can either prop it on a shelf as is or hot glue ribbon and/or magnets to the back!
    A homemade popsicle stick mug photo frame showcases a blue mug decorated with cotton ball marshmallows and glittery white paper steam, perfectly framing a black-and-white photo of a smiling boy.
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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!