Lovely handmade crafts

Christmas crafts using paper cups

Christmas crafts using paper cups

Last updated:2025/11/9

Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

Paper cups are a classic craft item—easy to handle and perfect for all kinds of ideas.

You can find a wide variety at 100-yen shops, from plain white and patterned designs to plastic versions, making it easy to choose based on what you want to make.

In this article, we’re spotlighting this super useful item!

We’re sharing Christmas craft ideas using paper cups.

From decorative items like ornaments to toys you can make and play with, there are lots of ideas—take a look and give them a try!

Christmas crafts using paper cups (1–10)

Reindeer Marionette

A cute reindeer marionette made from a paper cup

Reindeer Marionette

Here’s how to make a cute reindeer marionette out of a paper cup.

You will need: a paper cup, colored construction paper, an awl (or hole punch), two plastic bottle caps, string, a pair of chopsticks, and glue.

First, make the reindeer decorations with the colored paper and glue them onto the paper cup.

Next, make four holes in the paper cup.

Make a hole in the center of each bottle cap as well.

Thread strings through the holes to create the arms and legs, and thread the caps onto the leg strings to secure them as feet.

Cross the chopsticks, secure them with a rubber band, tie strings to the four ends, and connect them to the paper cup and the reindeer’s legs.

You’re done! Try making Santa Claus or any other characters you like and have fun!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Santa Claus whose face changes

Craft Idea: Santa Claus with a Changing Face (December) (Senior Recreation) (Childcare & Early Learning) (Creative) (Decoration) (Play)

Santa Claus whose face changes

Here’s how to make a Santa Claus puppet from paper cups whose facial expressions change.

You will need two paper cups, origami paper, glue, scissors, a craft knife, and writing utensils.

First, glue red origami paper onto one of the paper cups.

Trim any excess with scissors or a craft knife.

Next, use the craft knife to cut a window for the face.

After cutting the hole, glue on Santa’s beard and hat.

On the other paper cup, draw various Santa faces that match the size of the window, and attach them around the cup.

Finally, stack the two cups together to complete it.

When you rotate the face section, Santa’s expression changes—it’s lots of fun.

Give it a try!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Christmas lights

[Craft] Christmas Lights Made with Plastic Cups

Christmas lights

Here’s how to make a Christmas light using a plastic cup.

You will need colored cellophane, decorative pom-poms, scissors, a plastic cup, cellophane tape, an LED light, and wood glue.

First, stick colored cellophane of your choice onto the plastic cup.

After applying the cellophane, decorate it however you like using the decorative pom-poms.

Finally, place the plastic cup over the LED light, and you’re done! Layering different colors of cellophane also looks beautiful.

Give it a try!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

candle cup

Christmas candle made with paper cups

candle cup

Let’s make candle cups using paper cups and battery-powered LED lights! Using black construction paper, cut out silhouettes like Santa Claus, reindeer, and Christmas trees.

Glue the cutouts to the inside of the paper cup.

From the outside it looks like an ordinary paper cup, but if you darken the room and place an LED light inside, the paper you glued will appear as glowing pictures! You can use them at home for Christmas parties and more.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Xmas Present Cup

Christmas Craft (Part 2): Easy to make with few materials—“Xmas Present Cup”

Xmas Present Cup

Here’s how to make a perfect Christmas gift cup.

You’ll need paper cups, colored origami paper, colored paper, thick cardstock, glue, and scissors.

First, use the colored origami paper and colored paper to freely create decorations like animals or characters.

Once you’re done, attach them to thick cardstock so they can stand up, and secure them in place.

Since you’ll be placing a paper cup over the top, be mindful of the area you glue so it doesn’t interfere.

Cut two thin strips of colored paper, cross them, and glue them onto the paper cup.

Then place the cup over the cardstock base, and your cute Christmas gift cup is complete! It also looks adorable as a table decoration for Christmas parties, so it’s highly recommended.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem