For Seniors: Simple and Fun Hina Matsuri Crafts—An Idea Collection Using Various Materials

Peach blossom ornament

[Elderly Recreation] Rec Craftsman Series Part 258: “Small Peach Blossom Decoration [Hinamatsuri/Girls’ Day/March 3rd/Handmade/Floral Decoration/Crafting/Fine Motor Skills/Functional Training]”

Peach blossoms bloom in beautiful pale pink around late March.

Even if you want to go for a walk to see them, many people may find it hard to go out because March often has chilly days.

For those people, we recommend this “Small Peach Blossom Decoration.” It requires only a few materials, making it perfect for craft activities with seniors.

Prepare white, pink, and light green colored sand, artificial flowers, and a clear container—all of which you can buy at a 100-yen shop.

Then, layer the colored sand in the container in order.

The color scheme, like hishi-mochi, looks very cute.

Insert the artificial flowers, tie a string, and it’s done.

This peach blossom decoration will warm the hearts of those who see it, letting you feel the arrival of spring even while indoors.

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moko

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Paper lantern with origami

How to make a paper lantern: origami for Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day) and the Hina dolls

No Hina Doll display is complete without bonbori lanterns.

They’re an essential decoration that even appears right at the start of the children’s song “Ureshii Hinamatsuri.” In the past, bonbori were reportedly used as lighting at weddings held at night in Japan.

This time, let’s fold bonbori out of origami that gently illuminate the faces of the Emperor and Empress dolls.

The steps aren’t complicated, making it an easy project for older adults as well.

For the flame part of the bonbori, try using your favorite origami in bright or soft colors.

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Nakajima Junko

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Peach blossom in origami

[Origami] How to Make a 3D Peach Blossom

Here is an introduction to making a “three-dimensional peach blossom” that looks lovely displayed on a wall or attached to a wreath.

The finished piece faithfully recreates a realistic peach flower.

It may look complicated, but the process is simple: you just make five petals individually and assemble them, so it’s a project that older adults may also find approachable.

Origami is a recreational activity you can enjoy while chatting with those around you.

Try folding together with older adults who might find it challenging, and enjoy the conversation as you go.

These three-dimensional peach blossoms are soothing both to make and to display.

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Nakajima Junko

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Paper-cup Hina dolls

Hinamatsuri dolls that pop out from a paper cup

These are Hina dolls made from paper cups that you can whip up in very little time.

All you need are patterned paper cups and origami paper—everything can be found at the 100-yen shop, so the low cost is another nice perk! They’re perfect for chatting and crafting together at a day service center.

First, draw the Hina dolls’ faces on the bottom of the paper cups and their sleeves on the sides.

Next, make cuts in the cup, leaving about 1.5 cm from the bottom intact, and cut out the sleeve areas as well.

Finally, fold the faces upright and adjust the sleeves so they lift slightly, then add accessories like crowns made from origami to finish.

Display them as ornaments and enjoy decorating your room.

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miyabi

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