Crafts for Scouts

Crafts are a simple way to help Scouts learn new skills while having fun. You can use them for advancement, themed meetings, or just as an extra activity. This page gives you a variety of ideas you can use with any age group.

Instructional Crafts
Creative Projects
Crafts for Program Themes
Crafts for Holidays
Crafts for Leaders

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.

Save this page so you can come back when you need a quick idea for your next meeting. New crafts are added over time, so check back often.

If you have a favorite craft your Scouts enjoyed, consider sharing it. It may help another leader plan a great meeting.

How To Choose A Craft

Pick a craft that fits your time. Some projects take 10–15 minutes, while others may need a full meeting or more than one session. Think about how much time you have before you decide.

Check your supplies before the meeting. Simple materials like paper, glue, and markers are easier to manage. Crafts with tools or special items may need extra planning and supervision.

Consider your group size and age. Younger Scouts need simple steps and more help. Older Scouts can handle more detailed projects and may enjoy a challenge.

Also think about your setting. Some crafts work best outdoors or in a space where a little mess is fine. Planning ahead will help your meeting run smoothly.

Instructional Crafts

Hands-on projects that teach a skill or concept.

History of the United States Flag Cootie Catcher or Fortune Teller

Time: 15–25 minutes
Best For: Older Cub Scouts
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Building a Better World
Supplies: Paper (cardstock preferred), scissors
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Following directions, fine motor skills, history knowledge, communication

This craft has Scouts make a simple paper cootie catcher that teaches the history of the United States flag. They fold paper into a fortune teller and add questions and answers about the flag. Scouts take turns using it and quizzing each other. It keeps them active while they learn. It also works well when you need a low-cost activity with easy setup.

Good Manners Napkins

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: All Cub Scout ranks
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Character development
Supplies: Cloth napkins, fabric markers, paper, markers
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Communication, self-awareness, creativity, personal responsibility

This craft helps Scouts think about table manners while making something they will use at home. They brainstorm simple phrases, choose a few that matter to them, and write them on a cloth napkin. As they use it at meals, they see their own reminders. It is easy to run in a den meeting and gives families a simple way to support good habits every day.

Leaf Collection Craft

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: All Cub Scout ranks, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature-related adventures, environmental awareness
Supplies: Leaves, construction paper, clear contact paper, scissors, stapler
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Observation, patience, teamwork, nature awareness

This craft has Scouts collect leaves and turn them into a simple book. They arrange the leaves between sheets of contact paper and attach covers with construction paper. As they work, they look closely at shapes and colors and talk about where the leaves came from. It is easy to set up and works well for mixed ages. Scouts also take home a keepsake that helps them remember what they learned outdoors.

Build a Craft Stick Catapult

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: STEM activities, engineering, science
Supplies: Craft sticks, rubber bands, bottle cap, hot glue gun, small soft items (marshmallows or erasers), safety glasses
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Problem-solving, teamwork, basic physics, fine motor skills

This project has Scouts build a small catapult using craft sticks, rubber bands, and a bottle cap. They assemble the base, attach the launcher, and test how far they can launch soft objects. As they experiment, they see how changes affect distance and motion. It works well for group activities and gives Scouts a clear way to explore energy and force while having fun.

Pin Hole Planetariums

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Astronomy, STEM activities
Supplies: Empty cans, hammer, nail, flashlight, paper patterns, glue, scissors
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Tool use, observation, basic science, creativity

This craft has Scouts make a simple planetarium using a can and small holes. They glue a constellation pattern to the can and use a hammer and nail to punch holes for the stars. When they shine a flashlight inside in a dark room, the pattern appears like a constellation. It gives Scouts a hands-on way to learn about the night sky while practicing safe tool use.

How to Grow a Sugar Crystal

Time: 15–20 minutes setup, 1–2 weeks growing
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: STEM activities, science
Supplies: Sugar, water, glass jar, string or yarn, pencil, paperclip, pan for boiling
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Observation, patience, following directions, basic chemistry

This activity has Scouts grow a sugar crystal using a simple sugar solution and string. They set up the experiment at a meeting, then take it home to watch the crystal form over time. As the water evaporates, sugar collects on the string and forms crystals. Scouts learn how solutions work and see changes happen slowly. It is easy to set up and gives them a clear, hands-on science experience they can follow over several days.

Eraser Prints of Animal Tracks

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, art activities
Supplies: Large erasers, ink pads, paper, pens, animal track templates, utility knife (adult use)
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Observation, fine motor skills, creativity, nature awareness

This craft has Scouts make stamps shaped like animal tracks using erasers. They draw or trace a track, transfer the design, and an adult carves it out. Then Scouts use ink pads to print their tracks on paper. It helps them notice details about animals and connect the craft to outdoor learning. It works well for den meetings and can lead into a hike or tracking activity.

Make a Fake Pocketknife for Safety Demonstrations

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Knife safety adventures
Supplies: Cardboard, scissors, brad fastener, hole punch or pencil, markers
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Tool safety, responsibility, fine motor skills, focus

This craft has Scouts make a simple cardboard pocketknife to practice knife safety. They cut out a handle and blade, connect them with a brad, and practice opening and closing it. Leaders can guide safe handling and show proper techniques before Scouts use real knives. It gives them a safe way to build confidence and learn responsibility with tools.

Creative Projects

Craft Stick Pencil Holders

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Recycling, art activities
Supplies: Clean can, craft sticks, tacky glue, rubber bands, paint, paintbrushes
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, patience, teamwork

This craft has Scouts turn a recycled can into a pencil holder using craft sticks. They glue sticks around the outside, hold them in place with rubber bands, and then paint the finished holder. It is simple to run and works well in group settings. Scouts practice careful work and end up with something useful they can keep and use every day.

Leather Bookmark Project

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA, Venturing
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Leatherwork, art activities
Supplies: Leather pieces, ruler, scissors or cutter, hole punch, stamps, mallet, cord (optional)
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Tool use, fine motor skills, creativity, following directions

This project has Scouts make a simple leather bookmark they can use every day. They measure and cut the leather, then decorate it with stamps or designs. Some may add a hole and cord at the top. It is a good way to introduce basic leatherworking skills. Scouts practice careful work and take home something useful they made themselves.

Seed Mosaics

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, art activities
Supplies: Assorted seeds, cardboard, glue, scissors, ribbon or string
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, patience, planning

This craft has Scouts make a mosaic using seeds glued onto cardboard. They choose shapes, add glue in sections, and place seeds to create patterns or pictures. It works well for mixed ages since younger Scouts can keep it simple while older Scouts add more detail. Scouts practice careful work and end up with a nature-themed project they can display at home.

Recycled Cereal Box Scrapbooks

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Art activities, recycling
Supplies: Cereal boxes, paper, brown paper bags, yarn or string, scissors, glue, hole punch, markers, stickers, photos
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Creativity, fine motor skills, storytelling, organization

This craft has Scouts turn a cereal box into a scrapbook to save memories. They cover the box, add pages, and bind it with yarn. Then they glue in photos, write captions, and decorate. It works well after events or trips so Scouts can remember what they did. It also teaches reuse of materials and gives them something meaningful to keep.

Mini Book (Neckerchief Slides)

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, largea groups
Advancement: Crafts, tool use
Supplies: Printed book cover image, paper or cardstock, small wood block, glue, sandpaper, varnish or Mod Podge, PVC pipe or chenille stem
Prep Level: High
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Tool use, creativity, following directions, fine motor skills

This craft has Scouts make a neckerchief slide that looks like a tiny book. They print and cut a book cover image, wrap it around a small wood block, and seal it. Then they add a loop on the back so it can be worn. It takes some prep, especially cutting the wood, but the result is a unique slide Scouts can use with their uniform.

Grow Creativity with a Seed Neckerchief Slide

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, crafts
Supplies: Wood slice, dried seeds, tacky glue, PVC pipe piece, newspaper
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Creativity, fine motor skills, planning, nature awareness

This craft has Scouts make a neckerchief slide using a small wood slice and seeds. They arrange seeds into a design and glue them in place. Then they attach a PVC ring on the back so it can be worn. It connects well to nature themes and gives Scouts a chance to create something they can use with their uniform.

Gourd Birdhouse

Time: 1–2 hours total (multiple sessions for drying)
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, conservation
Supplies: Dried gourd, bleach, bucket, soap, steel wool, knife, spoon, drill, paint, wire
Prep Level: High
Mess Level: Messy
Skills Learned: Tool use, patience, nature awareness, responsibility

This project has Scouts turn a dried gourd into a birdhouse. They clean and scrub the gourd, remove the inside, and add holes for drainage and hanging. Then they paint and seal it before adding a wire loop. Some steps need adult help, but Scouts can do much of the work. When finished, they can hang it outside and watch for birds using it.

Tin Can Lanterns

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, tool use
Supplies: Tin cans, hammer, nails, marker, towel or glove, battery-operated candle
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Tool use, creativity, patience, following directions

This craft has Scouts turn a tin can into a lantern by punching holes in a design. They mark a pattern, use a hammer and nail to make holes, and place a battery candle inside. It gives them a chance to practice safe tool use and create something useful. The finished lanterns can be used for campouts or decorations.

Wolf Neckerchief Slide

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Wolf
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts
Supplies: Craft foam or leather, scissors, marker, googly eyes, glue, strip for loop
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, following directions, focus

This craft has Scouts make a wolf-themed neckerchief slide using foam or leather. They trace and cut a wolf shape, decorate it, and glue on eyes. Then they add a loop on the back so it can be worn with the uniform. It is simple to run and helps Wolf Scouts connect the craft to their rank while building basic skills.

Scouting for Food Neckerchief Slide

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: All Cub Scout ranks, Scouts BSA, Venturing
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Service, crafts
Supplies: Film canister, food can label, drill, scissors, glue
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Creativity, following directions, teamwork, service awareness

This craft has Scouts make a neckerchief slide using a film canister and a food label. They cut and glue the label around the canister, then use a drilled hole for the neckerchief. It connects directly to Scouting for Food and helps Scouts remember the purpose of the service project. It is simple to run and gives them something meaningful to wear.

Twig Picture Frame

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, crafts
Supplies: Twigs, twine, hot glue, photo, scissors
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Creativity, problem-solving, fine motor skills, teamwork

This craft has Scouts build a picture frame using twigs and twine. They arrange the twigs around a photo, glue the corners, and wrap twine to hold it together. It connects well to outdoor themes since Scouts can gather their own materials. The finished frame makes a nice keepsake and helps them remember a hike, campout, or meeting.

Paper Bag Puppets

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA, Venturing
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Communication, teamwork, creativity
Supplies: Paper bags, crayons or markers, glue, scissors, paper scraps, optional decorations
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Creativity, communication, teamwork, fine motor skills

This craft has Scouts turn a paper lunch bag into a puppet by adding a face and decorations. They draw or glue features onto the flap so it opens like a mouth. Scouts can make people, animals, or silly characters. It works well on its own or as part of a skit. It also helps build confidence when Scouts use their puppets to tell stories or perform.

Craft Stick Picture Frame

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, art activities
Supplies: Craft sticks, glue, scissors, photo, small decorations
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, following directions, focus

This craft has Scouts build a simple picture frame using four craft sticks. They glue the sticks into a square, attach a photo on the back, and decorate the front. It is quick to set up and works well as a gathering activity. Scouts enjoy making something personal they can take home and display.

Tiger Cub Friendship Bracelet

Time: 15–25 minutes
Best For: Tiger
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Character development, teamwork
Supplies: Twine, pony beads, scissors
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, kindness, coordination, sharing

This craft has Tigers make a simple bracelet using twine and beads. They thread beads, loop the cord, and tie knots to make an adjustable bracelet. It is easy to do and works well in a den meeting. Scouts can give the bracelet to a friend, which helps reinforce kindness and inclusion while building basic hand skills.

Leaf Prints

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, art activities
Supplies: Fresh leaves, washable paint, paper, brushes or sponges
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Observation, creativity, patience, fine motor skills

This craft has Scouts use fresh leaves to make prints with paint. They cover the leaf with paint, press it onto paper, and lift it to reveal the design. It helps them notice details like veins and shapes while creating simple artwork. It works well indoors or outdoors and connects easily to nature themes and outdoor activities.

Make a Cat Chase Ball Track Toy

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: STEM activities, service
Supplies: Plastic lids, small bowl, small ball, glue, scissors or craft knife
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Problem-solving, creativity, fine motor skills, service awareness

This project has Scouts build a simple cat toy using plastic lids and a small ball. They cut openings, glue the parts together, and create a track where the ball can roll but not escape. It is a good hands-on activity that also encourages service. Scouts can give the finished toy to a pet owner or donate it to an animal shelter.

Plaster Prints

Time: 30–45 minutes setup, several hours or overnight drying
Best For: Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA, Venturing
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Digging in the Past, Forensics, Mammal Study
Supplies: Sand, cardboard tray, plaster of Paris, water, mixing tools, objects for prints
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Messy
Skills Learned: Observation, following directions, problem-solving, basic science

This activity has Scouts make casts by pressing objects into damp sand and pouring plaster over the mold. After it dries, they remove the cast and see the details captured in the plaster. It works well for nature prints or simple forensic activities. Scouts learn to mix materials, follow steps, and observe small details while creating something they can keep or display.

Make a Soda Bottle Terrarium

Time: 25–35 minutes setup, ongoing care
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, conservation
Supplies: Plastic soda bottle, pebbles, potting soil, small plants or seeds, scissors
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Responsibility, observation, basic science, environmental awareness

This project has Scouts turn a soda bottle into a small terrarium. They add layers of rocks and soil, plant seeds or small plants, and place the top back on to create a mini ecosystem. After setup, they care for it over time by watching moisture and growth. It connects well to nature topics and helps Scouts learn about plants and responsibility.

Egg Carton Caterpillar

Time: 30–40 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Nature study, crafts
Supplies: Egg carton cups, string, paint, chenille stem, googly eyes, glue, scissors
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Creativity, fine motor skills, following directions, teamwork

This craft has Scouts turn egg carton cups into a colorful caterpillar. They thread the cups onto a string, paint them, and add antennae and eyes. It works well for younger Scouts and can be adjusted with adult help. It connects to nature themes and recycling while giving Scouts a fun project they can take home.

Circle Art

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Art activities, STEM
Supplies: Construction paper, scissors, glue, round items for tracing
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, basic math concepts, following directions

This craft has Scouts cut circles into parts and arrange them into a design on a larger circle. They try different layouts and then glue the pieces in place. It works well for younger Scouts and helps them see how shapes fit together. It also connects art with simple math ideas like halves and fractions while keeping the activity calm and easy to run.

Crafts for Program Themes

Projects that connect to meeting topics or activities.

Cub Scout Trading Cards

Time: 15–25 minutes
Best For: Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Communication, teamwork
Supplies: Card stock, photos, pencils, crayons or markers, glue or tape
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Communication, creativity, self-expression, social skills

This activity has Scouts make a small trading card with their photo and basic information. They decorate the card and share it with others in the den. It works well as a gathering activity and helps Scouts get to know each other. The cards can also be used later for games or to help everyone remember names and experiences.

Bicycle License Plates

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, outdoor activities
Supplies: Aluminum pie plates, scissors, markers, magazine, awl or ice pick, twine
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, following directions, responsibility

This craft has Scouts make a small license plate for their bike using aluminum from a pie plate. They press a design into the metal, color it, and attach it with twine. It is a simple project that connects to outdoor activities and bike safety. Scouts enjoy making something they can use right away on their bike.

Kindness Fortune Teller

Time: 15–20 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Character development, service
Supplies: Printed template, scissors, crayons or markers
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Kindness, communication, following directions, teamwork

This activity has Scouts make a paper fortune teller with simple acts of kindness inside. They color, fold, and then use it with a partner to choose a task. It works well as a gathering activity and leads into discussions about helping others. Scouts take it home and use it as a reminder to do small good turns each day.

Clock Neckerchief Slide

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, tool use
Supplies: Craft foam, scissors, marker, glue, brad fastener, lacing or chenille stem
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, following directions, focus

This craft has Scouts make a clock-themed neckerchief slide using craft foam. They cut circles, add numbers, and attach a brad to make movable clock hands. Then they add a loop on the back so it can be worn. It is simple to run and works well with a time theme while helping Scouts practice basic skills.

Donut Snowmen Craft/Recipe

Time: 15–20 minutes
Best For: All Cub Scout ranks
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Cooking, teamwork
Supplies: Mini donuts, pretzel sticks, chocolate chips, decorator icing, plates, napkins
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Following directions, creativity, fine motor skills, teamwork

This activity has Scouts build a snowman using stacked mini donuts and simple snack items. They add pretzel arms, chocolate chip faces, and icing decorations. It works well as a quick gathering activity and fits winter themes. Scouts practice simple steps and creativity, then enjoy eating their finished treat.

Pool Tote Craft

Time: 25–35 minutes (plus drying time)
Best For: Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, responsibility
Supplies: Canvas tote bags, fabric paint, brushes, cardboard, table covers
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Creativity, planning, responsibility, fine motor skills

This craft has Scouts decorate a canvas tote bag using fabric paint. They add their name and simple designs like waves or fish. It works well as a gathering activity and gives time for drying before the event ends. The finished tote is useful for carrying pool gear and helps Scouts stay organized and prepared.

CD Fish Craft

Time: 30–40 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, recycling
Supplies: Old CDs, paint, brushes, paper, scissors, hot glue
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Creativity, fine motor skills, following directions, teamwork

This craft has Scouts turn old CDs into colorful fish. They paint the discs, add paper fins and features, and glue two CDs together to form the fish shape. It works well for group settings and can tie into recycling or nature themes. The finished fish can be displayed or hung as decorations, giving Scouts something fun to share.

Soccer Zipper Pulls (or any sport)

Time: 15–25 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, teamwork
Supplies: Lanyard hooks, bead cord, soccer beads, alphabet beads, craft beads, scissors
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, following directions, patience, creativity

This craft has Scouts make a zipper pull using beads and cord. They attach the cord to a hook, add a soccer bead, and continue with letters or colors. It is quick to set up and works well for mixed ages. Scouts practice simple knotting and bead work, then clip the finished pull to a backpack or jacket.

Cotton Swab Snowflakes

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, STEM
Supplies: Cotton swabs, wax paper, tacky or glitter glue, string
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Creativity, fine motor skills, basic math concepts, patience

This craft has Scouts arrange cotton swabs into a snowflake shape and glue the pieces together. After it dries, they add a string to hang it up. It works well for winter meetings and gives a simple way to talk about symmetry and patterns. Scouts enjoy making their own designs and taking home a decoration they created.

Tabletop Tipi Model

Time: 30–40 minutes
Best For: Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Culture, crafts
Supplies: Sticks, rubber band or string, cardboard, paper bag, scissors, tape, markers
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Building skills, following directions, teamwork, cultural awareness

This craft has Scouts build a small tipi model using sticks and paper. They make a frame, cut a paper cover, and fit it over the structure. It gives them a simple way to understand how a tipi is built. It also opens the door to learning about Native cultures while practicing basic building skills.

Crafts for Holidays

Simple projects for seasonal or holiday-themed meetings.

Holiday Napkin Rings

Time: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA, Venturing
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, service
Supplies: Cardboard tubes, scissors, glue or tape, markers or paint, decorations
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Creativity, fine motor skills, following directions, service awareness

This craft has Scouts turn cardboard tubes into napkin rings by cutting and decorating them. They can use paint, markers, or simple decorations to match a holiday theme. It works well for mixed-age groups and can tie into service projects. Scouts make something useful while practicing basic skills and thinking about how their work can help others.

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

Time: 30–40 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, citizenship
Supplies: Cardboard tubes, construction paper, cardboard base, glue, plastic lids, scissors
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Medium
Skills Learned: Fine motor skills, creativity, following directions, teamwork

This craft has Scouts make a napkin and utensil holder using cardboard tubes and paper. They decorate the tubes with red, white, and blue designs, then attach them to a base. It works well for patriotic events and pack meals. Scouts practice simple skills while making something they can use at a table.

Crafts for Leaders

Ideas for recognition, ceremonies, or keepsakes.

Neckerchief Slide Bracelet

Time: 25–35 minutes
Best For: Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA, Venturinga
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Crafts, personal development
Supplies: Neckerchief slides, jump rings, clasp, pliers, optional chain links
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Tool use, patience, fine motor skills, creativity

This craft has Scouts connect old neckerchief slides to make a bracelet. They use jump rings and pliers to link the slides and add a clasp. It is a good way to reuse items and keep Scouting memories close. Scouts take pride in choosing slides that mean something to them and turning them into something they can wear or give as a gift.

An Unconventional Arrow of Light Award

Time: 45–60 minutes
Best For: Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA
Group Size: Small groups, individual
Advancement: Arrow of Light ceremony
Supplies: Decorative arrow, EL wire kit, craft wire, heat shrink tubing, scissors, hair dryer
Prep Level: High
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Planning, tool use, patience, problem-solving

This project has Scouts create a light-up ceremonial arrow using EL wire. They wrap the wire around the shaft, secure it, and cover it with tubing. Then they attach a battery pack and test the lights. It works well as part of an Arrow of Light ceremony and gives Scouts a meaningful keepsake to mark their transition.

Arrow of Light Centerpieces

Time: 30–60 minutes (varies by design)
Best For: Webelos, Arrow of Light, Scouts BSA, adults
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Ceremony planning, service
Supplies: Depends on design (plants, jars, photos, arrows, candles, natural items)
Prep Level: Medium
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Planning, teamwork, creativity, organization

This activity has Scouts and leaders create simple centerpieces for an Arrow of Light ceremony. They can use natural items, photos, or symbols like arrows to reflect the Scouting journey. It works well as a group project before the event. The focus is on keeping designs simple, meaningful, and easy to set up for multiple tables.

Den Doodles

Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light
Group Size: Small groups, large groups
Advancement: Leadership, teamwork
Supplies: Stick or dowel, string, beads or markers, paper, scissors, tape or glue
Prep Level: Low
Mess Level: Low
Skills Learned: Organization, responsibility, teamwork, creativity

This project has Scouts make a den doodle to track progress and achievements. They attach strings to a stick and add markers like beads or ribbons over time. It works well as a group project and becomes part of each meeting. Scouts enjoy seeing their progress grow, and it helps build a sense of teamwork in the den.

More Resources

Crafting Connections: The Importance of Creative Projects in Scouting

Get Crafty with Scouts

Looking for more ideas? Check back often as new crafts are added.

Have a craft to share? Send it in and include a photo if you can. I’m always glad to feature ideas from other leaders.