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Creating Christmas Magic: Our Fun and Easy DIY Gingerbread Door Mats
- Alexa Hidalgo
- Nov 26, 2024
- 4 min read
As the holiday season approaches, many families look for fun activities to enjoy together. This year, we discovered a delightful project that combined creativity and family bonding: making gingerbread door mats. With simple supplies and a few colorful paints, we transformed ordinary mats into festive decorations everyone can admire!
During our crafting adventure, my daughter Babe painted a charming gingerbread house, while my son Bug infused his mat with colorful Christmas lights. Their enthusiasm was infectious! We didn't just get heartfelt decorations; we created memories that we’ll cherish forever.
Getting Started with Our Gingerbread Door Mats
Before diving into our crafting session, we gathered our supplies. Here's what you need to bring this holiday magic to life:
Plain door mats, which can be found at craft stores or online retail. I got ours from Walmart for under $7 each! https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Coir-Doormat-18-x-30/872529719
Acrylic paints in festive colors. I also picked these up from Walmart for a great price. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Apple-Barrel-Multi-Surface-Acrylic-Craft-Paint-Set-Bold-Brights-12-Pieces/891056902
Various sizes of paintbrushes that we already had and I picked up a few spouncers. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Hello-Hobby-Foam-Multi-Color-Spouncers-Art-and-Craft-Variety-10pc-Set-Adult-Teen/2775234730
Clear Aerosol Spray Waterproof Rubberized Coating for added durability. The white spray will give a lightly snowy feel, for a whimsical gingerbread mat. https://www.lowes.com/pd/Flex-Seal-14-fl-oz-Clear-Aerosol-Spray-Rubberized-Coating/50299807
An easy-to-clean workspace (trust me on this!). We used plastic table covers that we already had and tossed them right after we finished up.
When the kids saw the mats, their eyes lit up with excitement as they imagined the endless possibilities. We talked about their ideas while I organized our supplies. My husband kicked off some festive Christmas music for us, and we all joined in singing and dancing while we painted together. It was such a fun time!
Inspiration Sparks Creativity
Babe was inspired by a whimsical gingerbread house she found on Google, and Bug envisioned bright Christmas lights. Their excitement was contagious!
I encouraged Babe to lightly sketch her gingerbread house design with a pencil before painting. This step helped her visualize her ideas and make adjustments as needed. Sketching on the mat didn't work well, so we kept the image displayed for her to reference while she worked. Bug jumped right into applying paint, creating colorful dots that resembled lights shining on a Christmas Tree.
This moment sparked so many giggles and kicked off our Christmas in such a fun way. Watching them create was the best gift I could ask for!
Crafting Techniques to Explore
To keep things interesting, I shared different painting techniques. Here are a few ideas to boost creativity:
Sponging: Use a sponge to softly blend colors and create smooth edges on designs.
Stippling: Use the tip of a brush to create small dots, mimicking icing or snow.
Dry Brushing: A dry brush technique adds a rustic look, perfect for a vintage gingerbread vibe.
Drip Draw: Use a cup or the paint bottle to create your design directly on the rug while it drips onto the mat.
The outcome was unique, reflecting each child's personality. Babe’s gingerbread house featured candy cane accents and festive trees, and Bug's light display radiated holiday joy!
Letting Dry and Making Them Sturdy
After the mats were painted, we played in the backyard and then let them dry overnight.
After they were completely dry, we (or rather, my husband) applied that fantastic Clear Aerosol Spray Waterproof Rubberized Coating to seal our creations. This important step makes sure our mats can handle tons of foot traffic, especially when they're showing off outside. After a solid 48-hour drying period, they're all set to be proudly displayed at any doorway!
The Finished Mats!
Check out our Instagram post here! https://www.instagram.com/p/DCzSRAqvMxN/
Babe shows off her dance moves while displaying her sweet gingerbread house!
Bug admiring his work!
A Craft Not Just for Kids
If you think this craft is only for kids, think again! I hosted a ladies' night with friends, and we decided to create our own gingerbread door mats.
We love gathering for our book club, or as we secretly call it, mommy wine and gossip night, or even craft-tacular evenings. We painted side by side, oooo-ing and ahhhh-ing like we were at a fireworks show, admiring each other's techniques and ideas. Everyone brought their own flair, making it a one-of-a-kind masterpiece party! We wrapped up the night with a mini-exhibition of everyone’s creations. If you’re looking to gather your pals for a fun, low-stress activity, a crafting night is the way to go!
Displaying Our Holiday Creations
Once our mats were complete and treated for durability, we proudly displayed them at our front porch (we have to rotate through all three so everyone has their MOMENT). I can't wait to hear what our visitors think of our personalized touch!
Seeing the pride in my kids as they talk about their mats is heartwarming. It’s not just about decoration; it’s a lovely reminder of our shared creative experience. I know these moments will be cherished long after the holiday season.
A Final Thought
Remember, the holidays are about connection and joy. Crafting together beautifully embodies that spirit! So grab those plain door mats along with some vibrant paints, and let your creativity soar! Your family may create a masterpiece resembling a classic gingerbread house or a lively display of Christmas lights. Either way, it's sure to spread holiday cheer throughout your home.
Reflecting on our crafting experience fills me with joy at the moments spent together and the laughter shared. Here’s to a holiday season filled with warmth, creativity, and the magic of togetherness!
Happy crafting!
XO,
Alexa Nicole
The Handcrafted Haus
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