Craft Stick Picture Frame

A craft stick picture frame is a simple and fun project for Cub Scouts. It is easy to make and does not require many materials. This makes it a great activity for meetings or gatherings. Young Scouts can enjoy making something they can take home and display.

This craft helps Scouts develop creativity and fine motor skills. They can decorate the frame in their own way, making each one unique. It also gives them a chance to practice following instructions. These are important skills for Cub Scouts to learn.

A craft stick picture frame can also be a good gift or keepsake. Scouts can use it to hold a special photo from a campout, pack meeting, or other event. Parents and family members will appreciate a handmade frame with a meaningful picture inside. It is a simple way to save a memory.

This project fits well as a gathering activity at the start of a meeting. It keeps Scouts busy while waiting for everyone to arrive. Leaders can also use it as part of an achievement or elective. It is a great way to combine creativity with learning.

Craft stick picture frames have been around for a long time. People have used simple wooden sticks for crafts for many years. At first, these sticks were just a way to hold ice pops. But creative minds found new uses for them, including making small frames for photos and artwork.

Children and Scouts have been making craft stick frames for generations. They are easy to build and fun to decorate. Schools, camps, and Scout groups often use them for projects. They help kids be creative while making something useful.

The tradition of making these frames continues today. Scouts can add their own designs and decorations, making each frame special. Whether it holds a photo from a camping trip or a family picture, a craft stick frame turns simple materials into a lasting memory.

This simple project teaches Scouts important skills. They learn to follow steps in order. First, they lay out the sticks. Then, they glue them together. After that, they add the photo and decorations. Learning to follow directions helps them in other Scouting activities.

Scouts also practice fine motor skills. They cut, glue, and place small decorations. These small movements help them get better at using their hands. This is useful for writing, tying knots, and other skills they will need as they grow.

Creativity is another big part of this craft. Each Scout can choose how to decorate their frame. Some may paint it, others may add stickers or small shapes. This lets them express themselves in their own way.

Most of all, this craft helps Scouts take pride in their work. When they finish, they have something they made with their own hands. They can bring it home and show it to their family. It is a reminder that they can create something special.

Materials

• 4 large craft sticks (tongue depressor size)
• Tacky craft glue
• Scissors
• Photo (will need to be trimmed)
• Small decorations (stickers, buttons, foam shapes, etc.)

Instructions

1. Lay one craft stick on the left side of the photo and one on the right side.
2. Place one craft stick along the top and one along the bottom. These should rest on top of the left and right sticks, forming a square opening in the middle.
3. Check the layout to make sure it looks right. Then, glue the top and bottom sticks to the left and right sticks. Let the glue dry.
4. Trim the photo so it fits behind the frame.
5. Glue the photo to the back of the frame. Let it dry.
6. Decorate the frame using stickers, buttons, or other small decorations. Let the glue dry completely.

Notes and Variations

• Use markers or paint to color the sticks before gluing them together.
• Make a stand by gluing a small piece of cardboard to the back.
• Add a magnet to the back so it can go on a fridge.
• Use caution with glue. Tacky glue is best, but if using hot glue, an adult should help.
• Let Scouts be creative! There is no right or wrong way to decorate the frame.

Click here for a printable copy of the Craft Stick Picture Frame instructions

Twig Picture Frame Craft

Creating a twig picture frame is a fun project for Scouts. This craft uses natural materials and is similar to the craft stick picture frame. Instead of craft sticks, Scouts gather twigs to build the frame. They arrange the twigs into a square or rectangle, glue them together, and add a photo. Decorations like twine can enhance the rustic look. This activity encourages creativity and appreciation for nature. It also teaches Scouts to follow instructions and work with different materials.

The twig picture frame makes a thoughtful gift or personal keepsake. It’s a simple way to bring the outdoors into a meaningful project.

Crafts for Scouts

The craft stick picture frame is a great project for Scouts, but there are many other fun and easy crafts they can try. Hands-on activities help Scouts be creative and learn new skills. If you are looking for more craft ideas, check out this list of crafts for Scouts. You will find projects that work well for meetings, gatherings, and special events.

Crafts like the craft stick picture frame keep Scouts engaged and give them something to take home. Whether you need a quick activity or a themed project, there are plenty of ideas to choose from. Visit the link to find more crafts that fit your group’s needs.

Crafting Connections: The Importance of Creative Projects in Scouting

What kind of glue should we use for a craft stick picture frame?

Tacky craft glue works best because it holds well and dries quickly. If using hot glue, an adult should help. Regular school glue may take longer to dry.

Can we paint the craft sticks?

Yes! Scouts can paint them before gluing them together. Let the paint dry before assembling the frame.

How do we make the craft stick picture frame stand up?

Glue a small piece of cardboard to the back as a stand. You can also attach a loop of string or a magnet to hang it up.

What size photo should we use?

A standard photo may need to be trimmed. The opening is about 3 inches by 3 inches, but it can vary depending on how the frame is put together.

How can we decorate the frame?

Scouts can use stickers, buttons, foam shapes, small wood cutouts, or markers. Let them be creative and make it their own.

Is the craft stick picture frame a good project for all ages?

Yes, younger Scouts may need help with gluing and cutting, but this craft is simple enough for everyone to enjoy.

The craft stick picture frame is a fun and easy project for Cub Scouts. It only requires a few materials, making it a great choice for meetings. Scouts can follow simple steps to build their frame and decorate it in their own style. This helps them practice following directions and using their hands for small tasks.

This craft is also a great way to create a keepsake. Scouts can add a special photo from a trip, a family event, or a Scout activity. Parents enjoy seeing these homemade frames displayed at home. Each one is unique and full of personality.

Leaders can use this craft as a gathering activity or part of an achievement. It works well for all ages, though younger Scouts may need a little help. Whether painted, decorated with stickers, or left plain, the frame becomes a lasting memory.

If you are looking for more crafts like this, check out crafts for Scouts for more ideas. Hands-on activities like the craft stick picture frame help Scouts learn new skills while having fun.