[For Seniors] Kick Off the New Year with Laughter! Fun DIY Ideas for Fuku-warai
When it comes to classic New Year’s games, Fukuwarai—arranging facial features while blindfolded—is a favorite.
Even traditional pastimes can feel fresh and more exciting when you add handmade twists and ideas.
The possibilities are endless: versions you can eat at the end made from cookies or cake, ones that combine clay and pebbles, or designs based on anime characters.
One of the biggest charms of handmade Fukuwarai is that you can enjoy the time spent creating the pieces together with older adults.
Why not try these easy, handmade Fukuwarai ideas at a senior facility or at home as a New Year’s activity?
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[For Seniors] Start the year with laughter! Fun, DIY Fukuwarai ideas (41–50)
Self-portrait Fukuwarai
When it comes to Fukuwarai faces, Okame is the classic choice, but since you’re making it by hand, how about creating a Fukuwarai based on your own face? First, draw the outline and hair on construction paper, then draw the parts used in Fukuwarai—eyes, nose, mouth, eyebrows—on separate sheets.
It’s recommended to place the paper for the parts on top of the paper with the outline while drawing; that makes it easier to match the sizes.
Once the parts are drawn, cut them out with scissors and you’re done.
When everything is ready, try the Fukuwarai and see if you can assemble your own face correctly!
Ornament arrangement
Here’s an idea for a variation on the traditional Fukuwarai game: try adding accessories.
Normally, Fukuwarai involves placing only facial parts like the eyes, nose, and mouth.
But by including accessories that go around the face—such as hats, ribbons, or glasses—you can make it even more fun! When creating the parts, the key is to pay attention to the relative sizes of each piece.
If everyone divides the work—drawing or cutting out different parts—be sure to play together once everything’s ready!
Fukuwarai with photos
Let’s play Fukuwarai using photos! Try making a Fukuwarai with a slightly edited portrait photo printed on A4 size.
Cut out the facial features, and prepare a blank, featureless face by filling in the face area.
It could be a hit if you make one using photos of actors or singers you used to like, or even with photos of historical figures.
Even without a blindfold, a Fukuwarai made from realistic photos somehow ends up creating funny faces—everyone is sure to burst into laughter!
In conclusion
The classic New Year’s game “Fukuwarai” gets even more exciting with the unique flair of something handmade.
You can base it on favorite characters, make an edible version, and with a little creativity the ways to enjoy it are endless.
Placing the facial features while blindfolded sharpens concentration and fills the moment with smiles.
This New Year, spend some heartwarming time with a one-of-a-kind, handmade Fukuwarai.