Giant Snowflakes

This is a perennial favorite, taking the most basic household supplies and creating a festive holiday piece. I've even co-opted it into other things besides snowflakes, such as properly-arranged red, white, and blue to make a "flag" style!

What did you...
We took standard weight copy paper and made 3D paper snowflakes! You want to give each person their own pair of scissors. Share a roll of tape per two people, and a stapler between every 2-4 people. I have also presented this where the paper was pre-cut into perfect squares, and where it was full 8 ½" x 11" paper and I let them cut it down to size. Either way works well! 

How did you...
The directions given are very helpful. In trying to make it "stick" in the minds of my little (and not so little) crafters, I explained Step 3 in terms of the folds. (You want to cut into the "two edged side" so that you are cutting at an angle towards the "one edged side.") Also, spacing the cuts fairly evenly is important. I've done this craft program 4-5 times, and there is always at least one kid who wants to cut 10-15 skinny strips. The issue with this is, when you unfold it, there is inevitably torn sections, and it is hard to complete the rest of the steps with skinnier strips. (Not saying it can't be done, but it typically does not stand up to the level of speedy impatience of your average child!)

Who did you...
This is great for most any age, with a minimum age of probably 5-7, depending on their skill level. Younger than this, they have a hard time following the instructions and get frustrated/bored easily. But older kids, teens, and adults all seem to enjoy doing this. Plus, once you learn it, you can make them forever. I've had numerous patrons return and tell me they taught their grandkids or they made them again this year.

Where did you...
There are numerous resources for this craft, but the one on wikiHow breaks it down really well, and provides step-by-step images. (This is great if you want to print out images as guidelines, and is faster than having pre-made pieces to demonstrate the step-by-step process!)

Before you file it away...
This is pretty easy to do with only one instructor. The good thing is, there is a LOT of repetition, so as you have latecomers wander in (and you will), if you have the first crew up to speed with how to fold and cut, you can focus your attention on showing the stragglers how it works. And usually at least one person catches on quickly and volunteers their services to help instruct others!