Snowglobe Paper Plate Craft: A Magical Winter Project for Kids

There’s something about snowglobes that feels magical. Just a little shake and suddenly you’re watching snow swirl gently around a tiny winter world. Kids are endlessly fascinated by them, which makes snowglobes a perfect inspiration for a seasonal craft. The Snowglobe Paper Plate Craft takes that same sense of wonder and puts it into a simple, hands-on project that children can create with everyday supplies. By the end, each child has their own little winter scene to display, and no two snowglobes ever turn out quite the same.

a paper plate craft that looks like a snowglobe with a snowman and trees inside

This project only calls for a handful of supplies: paper plates, construction paper, scissors, glue, cotton, paint, and a clear plastic cover. A ribbon at the end makes it extra easy to hang. These are materials you’ll find in most classrooms or homes, which means there’s no need for a big shopping trip. That alone makes this craft a win during the busy holiday season.

How to make the snowglobe paper plate craft

colored construction paper blue paint scissors glue and cotton balls

The process starts with the background. Paint the bottom of a paper plate blue and let it dry completely — this becomes the snowy sky.

While it’s drying, cut out the template pieces for the trees, snowman, and base. Trace them onto construction paper, cut them out, and set them aside.

trees cut out of green construction paper

Once the plate is ready, begin assembling the scene by gluing the trees onto the plate and adding cotton at the bottom to look like fluffy snow.

a paper plate decorated with construction paper trees and cotton to look like snow

Then place the snowman in front to complete the winter wonderland. Kids love customizing this part — adding scarves, hats, or even buttons to give their snowman personality.

The next step is what really makes it feel like a snowglobe. Cut the center out of another paper plate, leaving just the rim.

Attach the clear plastic cover over the opening, then glue this frame onto the plate with the winter scene.

The effect is instant — now the snowman and trees look like they’re inside a globe. Add a construction paper base at the bottom to act as the stand, and finish with a ribbon at the top if you’d like to hang it.

Why kids, parents, and teachers love this winter craft

What’s fun about this project is how much room there is for individuality. Some kids keep their snowglobes simple with just a snowman and a couple of trees, while others fill them with extra decorations, hand-drawn snowflakes, or even glitter inside the cover to give it a sparkling effect. There’s no right or wrong way to do it, which means every snowglobe tells its own little story.

Beyond being festive, the Snowglobe Paper Plate Craft also supports important developmental skills. Painting, cutting, and gluing build fine motor coordination. Following the steps in order reinforces sequencing and attention to detail. Choosing colors and arranging pieces encourages creativity and decision-making. For younger learners, it’s also a chance to practice shapes and colors, while older kids can extend the activity into writing or storytelling.

This craft works beautifully in the classroom. Teachers can prepare the template pieces ahead of time so students can focus on assembly and decorating. The finished snowglobes look wonderful on a bulletin board or hanging along a hallway, instantly brightening up the space with a festive winter display. At home, this project can easily become part of a family holiday tradition. Kids can each make their own snowglobe to hang on the tree or display on the mantle, creating keepsakes that come out year after year.

Pair it with a good book

Pairing the craft with a winter read-aloud makes it even more special. Snow Globe Wishes by Erin Dealey is a perfect choice, blending the magic of snowglobes with themes of kindness and community. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats is a timeless classic that ties in beautifully with any snow-themed activity. Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner is another fun option that sparks kids’ imaginations. Reading one of these stories before starting the craft helps set the mood and gives children ideas for their own winter scenes.

Extend the activity for more learning

a snowglobe paper plate craft that looks like a snowglobe with a snowman and trees inside

There are also plenty of ways to extend the activity. For writing, children can create a short story about what happens inside their snowglobe. Maybe their snowman comes to life at night, or the forest in the background hides a family of animals. For science, you can connect the craft to a lesson about snow and how water freezes. For math, kids can count how many trees, snowballs, or cotton “snowdrifts” they added. Small extensions like these turn a fun craft into an integrated learning experience.

A memorable winter craft for kids

From a practical standpoint, this project is affordable and manageable. Paper plates and construction paper are staples, cotton adds texture, and the clear cover is easy to find at craft or dollar stores. The templates save time and make sure all the pieces fit together, especially helpful in a classroom setting. Once finished, the snowglobes are lightweight, easy to hang, and sturdy enough to last through the season

What makes the Snowglobe Paper Plate Craft so memorable is the combination of creativity and tradition. Children get to design their own little world, complete with snowmen and trees, and then proudly show it off. Teachers and parents get a project that is simple to prepare but has a big impact. And everyone gets to enjoy the charm of a handmade snowglobe that captures the magic of winter.

If you’re looking for a winter activity that blends art, imagination, and seasonal fun, this craft is a wonderful choice. It’s easy enough for younger kids, engaging enough for older ones, and meaningful for families and classrooms alike. Most importantly, it gives children a chance to create something they’ll be proud of — a little snow-filled world that’s all their own.

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