Crafts for Scouts

Crafts are a great way for Scouts to express creativity while learning new skills. They can be used to meet rank advancement requirements or just for fun. Crafts encourage hands-on learning and help Scouts explore new ideas in a fun way. Leaders can use crafts during meetings to engage Scouts and reinforce lessons in a creative environment.

Different types of crafts can be used for various themes, holidays, or to teach valuable lessons. From making cootie catchers to growing sugar crystals, crafts help Scouts learn while being creative.

These projects can be adapted to fit the needs of any Scout group. With the right supplies and guidance, Scouts can have fun and gain useful skills through crafting.

Leaders can also find craft ideas to use in ceremonies or to show appreciation to their Scouts.

Do you have a craft that you’d like to share? Contact me and I’ll share it here with a picture of your creation.

Instructional crafts are a fun way for Scouts to learn new skills and explore different topics. These crafts help teach important lessons while keeping Scouts engaged. They can be part of a meeting, activity, or event.

Each craft focuses on a specific skill or subject, like good manners, science, or history. Scouts can learn about the United States flag, how to grow sugar crystals, or even build a small catapult. These projects make learning hands-on and interesting.

Leaders can use instructional crafts to meet program goals. Many of these activities tie into advancement requirements, but they also work well as extra activities. They provide a chance for Scouts to explore new areas and develop their creativity.

Scouts of all ages can enjoy instructional crafts. Whether working alone or in teams, they will gain knowledge and confidence as they complete each project.

History of the United States Flag Cootie Catcher or Fortune Teller

Barb sent in this free template and instructions for making a cootie catcher make a history of the US flag cootie catcher to help Cub Scouts. A cootie catcher, also called a fortune teller, is an orgami construct which can be used to ask and answer questions.

Good Manners Napkins

Teaching good manners to children is crucial for raising responsible and respectful adults. Table etiquette can be a challenge to instill in young kids, but with the help of Cub Scouts and DIY napkins, it becomes easier and enjoyable. Good Manners Napkins are practical and creative, helping Cub Scouts learn and remember table manners. These reusable and eco-friendly napkins are a cost-effective choice for families, promoting the “reuse” aspect of reduce, reuse, recycle. Have fun teaching valuable table etiquette lessons with your Cub Scouts using these thoughtful napkins.

Leaf Collection Craft

Cub Scouts love collecting and exploring the outdoors. As Scout leaders, you play a vital role in nurturing their curiosity and passion for nature through craft projects. The leaf collection craft combines collecting with the beauty of nature and can be useful for science fair projects. It’s a fun activity that helps develop skills like attention to detail, teamwork, and artistic expression. Get ready for an exciting crafting adventure with your Cub Scouts!

Build a Craft Stick Catapult

Building a small catapult is a fun way for Scouts to learn about physics and energy. By pushing down on the end with a bottle cap, potential energy is stored. When they release it, the energy turns into kinetic energy, launching an object into the air. Gravity then pulls the object back to the ground. This simple craft stick project is an easy and exciting way to explore science concepts.

Pin Hole Planetariums

Pinhole planetariums are fun for Scouts to make because the creation process involves hammers, nails, and flashlights. And they encourage Scouts to look up at the night sky to see what they have learned about constellations.

How to Grow a Sugar Crystal

Scouts can grow a sugar crystal with common household supplies. This is a STEM activity they can start at a meeting and then take home with them.

Eraser Prints of Animal Tracks

Eraser prints of animal tracks are a fun craft for Scouts. Instead of using pencil ends, this project uses larger art gum erasers to create paw print stamps. You carve the eraser, cutting away parts you don’t need to make a relief stamp. Then use an ink pad to make the prints. It can take some practice to get the carving right, so try it out before teaching younger Scouts.

Creative projects give Scouts a chance to use their imagination and make something unique. These projects are a great way for Scouts to explore their artistic side while working on hands-on activities. They are simple to organize and can be done with basic materials.

Each project offers a new way for Scouts to express themselves. From making pencil holders to creating bookmarks, these crafts let Scouts make useful items they can keep or give as gifts. The projects are designed to be fun and easy to follow.

Leaders can use creative projects to fill meeting time or support themes. Many of these activities can also be connected to special events or holidays, like making birdhouses or scrapbooks. These crafts help Scouts build confidence in their abilities while trying new techniques.

Scouts of all ages can enjoy creative projects. Whether working on individual crafts or team projects, they will develop skills like patience, attention to detail, and creativity.

Craft Stick Pencil Holders

Craft stick pencil holders are an easy and fun project for Cub Scouts. They can use the holders for school supplies or give them as gifts. Start by gluing the craft sticks at the beginning of the meeting so they dry in time to paint later. If you prefer to skip painting, use brightly colored sticks. This simple craft works well as a gathering activity.

Leather Bookmark Project

The leather bookmark project is a simple introduction to leatherworking, perfect for beginners. Scouts can learn basic skills like cutting, punching, and stamping while making a useful item. To make the bookmark, you’ll need leather, a ruler, a sharp knife, a leather punch, and a stamp for personalization. Scouts can add a tassel or ribbon to finish the project. This craft also makes a great gift idea.

Seed Mosaics

Seed mosaics are a fun and easy craft for Scouts. They use different types of seeds, such as beans, popcorn kernels, and sunflower seeds, to create patterns on cardboard. Scouts cut the cardboard into a shape, spread glue on a small section, and place seeds into the glue to form a design. Once the entire piece is covered, let it dry. Add a ribbon to the back for hanging. This project encourages creativity and works well for Mother’s Day or nature-themed meetings.

Recycled Cereal Box Scrapbooks

Cub Scouts like to make scrapbooks with pictures and mementos. But you don’t need to go buy expensive scrapbooking supplies to make cereal box scrapbooks with your den of active boys or girls. Remember, their idea of a fun activity…

Mini Cub Scout Handbook (Neckerchief Slides)

Homemade neckerchief slides are a Scouting tradition. John A. (Cubmaster of Pack 528 in Cascade Pacific Council, NW Oregon/SW Washington) sent me this idea for a Cub Scout neckerchief slide which looks like a little Cub Scout handbook. Thanks John!

Seed Neckerchief Slide

The seed neckerchief slide is a simple craft with a natural look, using a slice of tree branch as the base. Scouts glue assorted seeds, such as sunflower or popcorn seeds, onto the wood in any pattern they choose. Once the design is dry, they attach a PVC pipe ring to the back to hold the neckerchief. Hot glue can make the slide more durable. This project combines creativity with nature and makes a unique neckerchief slide.

Gourd Birdhouse

Use dried gourds to make a birdhouse. If you didn’t grow any yourself, you can probably find some in your area at a farmer’s market or even a craft shop.

Tin Can Lanterns

Tin can lanterns make a very versatile craft project for Cub Scouts. You can make the holes in any pattern you like – a star for Christmas, a ghost for Halloween, a heart for Valentine’s day. Webelos and Bears can…

Wolf Neckerchief Slide

The Wolf neckerchief slide is a fun, hands-on craft that connects Scouts to the tradition of homemade slides. Wolves can make their own neckerchief slide as part of their Cub Scout adventures. This simple project lets Scouts show creativity while learning new skills. Leaders can simplify the process by helping Scouts trace and cut out the leather pattern, with adults assisting with tasks like hot gluing. This activity helps Scouts take pride in their work and connects them to the Scouting tradition.

Twig Picture Frame

A twig picture frame craft is a DIY nature craft which can be made by Cub Scouts. This frame makes a nice gift for somebody special. It also can be used at a meeting about family heritage, to frame a…

Paper Bag Puppets

A den leader asked me recently about ideas for gathering activities. I suggested paper bag puppets.

Craft Stick Picture Frame

A craft stick picture frame is one of those things which 99 percent of you probably already know how to do, so I am really posting this just to remind you that things like this make a good gathering activity,…

Tiger Cub Friendship Bracelet

Tigers might enjoy making friendship bracelets to give to each other. The bracelets are very easy and inexpensive to make, so each Tiger can make several.

Leaf Prints

Nature crafts are good scout activities for several reasons. First, you can get the kids outside to collect the supplies. While they are there, they can look around and really see the outdoors. Second, they are usually inexpensive. And third,…

Make a Cat Chase Ball Track Toy

Crafting a DIY Chase Ball Track is an engaging and cost-effective project suitable for Scouts. Using readily available materials like clear plastic plates, a round bowl, and a ping pong ball, this straightforward activity offers an opportunity for young Scouts to develop basic crafting skills while creating an entertaining toy for their feline friends. The step-by-step process involves gluing the bowl between two plates and letting it dry, making it accessible for Scouts of different ages. Add some stickers for extra flair, call your cat, and enjoy watching them play with their new homemade toy—a simple and practical endeavor for Scout troops of all levels.

Crafts for program themes help Scouts connect creative activities to different topics they are learning about. These projects fit well with themed meetings or events and help make the learning experience more hands-on. They allow Scouts to create something while exploring the theme.

Each craft is linked to a specific theme, like sports, kindness, or outdoor adventures. Scouts can make items like trading cards, bicycle license plates, or zipper pulls. These projects help reinforce what they are learning and give them something to take home or use.

Leaders can choose crafts that fit the theme of their meeting or activity. Whether it’s for a cycling event or a kindness project, these themed crafts help make the experience more engaging. They also give Scouts a chance to think about the theme in new ways.

Scouts enjoy working on crafts that match their interests and activities. Themed projects help them feel more connected to the program while encouraging creativity and teamwork.

Cub Scout Trading Cards

Cub Scout trading cards are a fun craft where Scouts create cards with their own “Cub Scout stats.” This project fits well with sports-themed den or pack meetings and works great as a gathering activity. The most challenging part is getting the photos of the Scouts ahead of time, but self-portraits can be used if needed. It’s a simple and creative way for Scouts to personalize their own cards.

Bicycle License Plates

Cub Scouts can make their own bicycle license plates as part of a cycling-themed meeting. Using aluminum pie plates, they cut a 3×5 inch piece, press their name or design into it, and decorate it with permanent markers. After punching holes in the corners, they attach the plate to their bike with twine. This craft is simple and gives Scouts a fun way to personalize their bikes.

Kindness Fortune Teller

I needed a couple of activities for a recent meeting based on the Planting Seeds of Kindness theme. So one thing we did was make kindness fortune tellers (also known as cootie catchers.)

Clock Neckerchief Slide

Cub Scouts can make this simple neckerchief on their own. Use it as a gathering activity with the Turn Back the Clock theme.

Donut Snowmen Craft/Recipe

Donut snowmen are a fun and easy craft and snack for Cub Scouts. Made with powdered sugar donuts, pretzel sticks, mini chocolate chips, and red icing, these snowmen take just a few minutes to assemble. Scouts can stack the donuts, use pretzels for arms, and decorate with chocolate chips and icing. It’s a simple activity that works well as a gathering craft and a tasty treat.

Pool Tote Craft

If you are looking for a craft for your pack pool party or aquatics themed meeting, you could let the Scouts decorate their own pool totes. Then they can carry all of their squishy balls, goggles, dive sticks, and other…

CD Fish Craft

Instructions for a fish shaped craft made from old CDs. Make one or make several and put them together as a mobile. This also works well with an aquatics theme or even a nature theme.

Soccer Zipper Pulls (or any sport)

This soccer zipper pulls craft goes with any soccer themed party or gathering. I’ve outlined a basic idea below, but you can get creative and change it up however you want. They can use the colored beads at the bottom to…

Cotton Swab Snowflakes

You don’t need a lot of fancy materials to make these and they can be put together pretty quickly, so these could be done at a pack meeting or den meeting. They work well with a winter theme.

Crafts for holidays give Scouts a chance to celebrate special occasions by making something creative. These projects are designed to fit different holiday themes and can be used to decorate or share with others. Holiday crafts add a fun activity to meetings or events.

Each craft ties into a specific holiday, like Halloween, Christmas, or Independence Day. Scouts can make items like napkin rings, snowmen, or patriotic utensil holders. These crafts help them learn about the holiday while making something they can use or display.

Leaders can use holiday crafts to add excitement to meetings and events. These projects can also be a way for Scouts to give back by making decorations or gifts for family or community members. They are a simple and enjoyable way to celebrate holidays in the program.

Holiday crafts work for Scouts of all ages. They provide a fun way to learn about different traditions while building creativity and crafting skills.

Holiday Napkin Rings

Cub Scouts can make this craft to brighten up a holiday table. They can decorate the napkin rings any way they want.

Halloween Craft, Snack, and Game Ideas

Halloween is a fun time for Scouts to enjoy spooky activities while learning new skills. You can include Halloween themes in meetings, camps, or special events, with activities adapted for different age groups. Younger Scouts will enjoy simple crafts and games, while older Scouts may prefer more complex projects. These activities keep everyone engaged and learning.

Patriotic Napkin and Utensil Holder

Independence Day is a fun holiday for making decorations. Here is a simple craft for your Fourth of July celebration which is actually functional. This one is best for the younger scouts.

Crafts for leaders offer ways to create special items that support Scouting activities. These crafts can be used for ceremonies, recognition, or as gifts for Scouts and other leaders. They add a personal touch to meetings and events.

Each craft in this section is designed for leaders to make or share with their group. Projects like neckerchief slide bracelets, centerpieces, and Arrow of Light awards help leaders celebrate important moments. These crafts can also be used to organize and recognize achievements.

Leaders can use these crafts to enhance the Scouting experience. Whether it’s making a special award or a meaningful gift, these projects help leaders show appreciation and recognize milestones. They can also be used during ceremonies to add a creative element.

These crafts are a simple way for leaders to connect with Scouts and the program. They offer opportunities to be creative while supporting the values and goals of Scouting. Leaders can use these projects to strengthen relationships and celebrate achievements.

Neckerchief Slide Bracelet

This neckerchief slide bracelet is a thoughtful gift for a Cub Scout leader. Made by repurposing old neckerchief slides, it’s a creative and meaningful way to show appreciation. This craft is simple but personal, making it a great project for Scouts to give to their leaders.

An Unconventional Arrow of Light Award

Stephen made a light up Arrow of Light for his son and was kind enough to send in pictures and instructions if anyone else would like to make one.

Arrow of Light Centerpieces

Janice recently wrote to me with this message: “I need your help! I’ve been assigned to help put together our Arrow of Light ceremony / banquet. I’m at a loss as to what to do for centerpieces. We’ll have over…

Den Doodles

A den doodle is a simple craft that helps Cub Scouts track their progress. It starts with a stick or dowel as the base. Strings are attached for each Scout, and beads or ribbons are added to mark achievements. Scouts can help make and decorate the doodle, making it personal to their group. After each meeting or event, they add a bead or marker to show what they’ve completed. Den doodles are easy to make and keep the Scouts motivated by showing them their progress in a visual way.

Crafting Connections: The Importance of Creative Projects in Scouting

Crafts are an important part of Scouting, giving Scouts a way to learn new skills and express their creativity. These hands-on projects can be used to meet rank advancement requirements or just to add some fun to meetings and events. Crafts help Scouts explore different topics and develop useful skills like problem-solving and teamwork.

There are many types of crafts that fit different Scouting needs. Instructional crafts teach specific lessons, like the history of the U.S. flag or basic science concepts. Creative projects allow Scouts to make things they can use or give as gifts, such as pencil holders or bookmarks. These activities are simple, fun, and help build confidence.

Leaders can also find crafts that match themes or holidays, making them great for special events. Holiday crafts like Halloween decorations or patriotic items for Independence Day add excitement to meetings. Themed crafts like bicycle license plates or kindness projects help Scouts connect with the program in a hands-on way.

Crafts can also be a special tool for leaders. Leaders can create recognition items, such as neckerchief slides or awards, to celebrate Scouts’ achievements. These projects help make Scouting more personal and meaningful, while encouraging creativity for everyone involved.