Simple materials [crafts using newspaper] for seniors
For those looking for crafts using familiar materials, here are plenty of ideas for “newspaper crafts.” Newspaper is a very thin material, which makes it easy to shape even with one hand or a light touch—one of its great advantages.
It also provides good tactile stimulation, so it’s highly recommended.
This time, we’ll also share ideas for practical items you can use in daily life.
If folding is difficult, how about trying torn-and-paste projects instead? Please choose according to the abilities and condition of the older adult.
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Simple materials [crafts using newspaper] for seniors (1–10)
hat
Here’s an introduction to making a “hat” out of newspaper—a craft where you can enjoy the process itself.
It’s great for yourself, and also fun to fold together with your grandchild.
There are no complicated steps, so it’s easy for older adults to make as well.
The key is to crumple the newspaper before you start folding.
This makes it less likely to tear and increases its strength.
Roll the newspaper into a tube and fold it up to a certain height, turning the edge up as you go.
When you spread out the folded part, you can also form the brim.
Isn’t it delightful that such simple steps can turn a newspaper into a realistic hat? Give it a try using this as a guide.
roasted sweet potato
Recently, roasted sweet potatoes seem to be all the rage, and specialty sweet potato shops have become more common.
They used to be in season in autumn and winter, but now you can enjoy them all year round.
Let’s try making a “roasted sweet potato” using newspaper and origami.
Crumple the newspaper into the shape of a sweet potato, then stick origami paper over it.
Since the newspaper is crumpled, simply attaching the origami paper will create wrinkles.
Those wrinkles help give it a more authentic roasted sweet potato look.
Many older adults may associate roasted sweet potatoes with autumn and winter.
Crafts related to the seasons—not just roasted sweet potatoes—can be a great way to feel the changes of the four seasons.
Why not use newspaper to make something with a seasonal touch?
basket
Let us introduce a newspaper “basket” that works both as a decoration and for practical use.
You’ll make the base of the basket with thick paperboard; it’s fine to prepare these bases in advance.
Please adjust the pace to suit older adults.
Apply wood glue diluted with water to the basket base and attach strips of newspaper.
After it dries thoroughly, apply your favorite paper napkins, let it dry again, and it’s done.
If you prepare several kinds of paper napkins to choose from, people can also enjoy the fun of selecting their favorite.
By getting creative with the shape of the base, you can make baskets in a variety of designs.
Please use this as a reference and give it a try!
Simple Materials [Crafts Using Newspaper] for Seniors (11–20)
art pumpkin
A cute, round little pumpkin.
Let’s make one by layering newspaper.
Cut out the pumpkin sections so that the folded newspaper pieces are the same size.
Since you’ll make two identical pieces, having a template is handy.
When attaching the newspaper cut into a pumpkin shape, pay attention to where you apply the glue.
Add a stem and leaves to the rounded, three-dimensional pumpkin to finish.
The multiple connected layers of newspaper give it a delicate look.
It’s also lovely to change the sizes, make several pumpkins, and string them together into a garland.
Because crafts use your fingers and hands, creating these pieces can also help stimulate the brain.
Wrapping paper wreath
Isn’t it common in care facilities and similar settings to decorate the walls to match various functions and events? In recreational activities as well, crafts are often made to suit the occasion.
One recommended project is a “wreath” made from a ring-shaped roll of newspaper.
You can decorate the newspaper using items like wrapping paper or crepe sheets sold at 100-yen shops.
Since most of the materials are easy to gather, it’s simple to make.
If you customize it—shimenawa for January, Tanabata for July, and Christmas for December—you can create them all year round.
We hope you enjoy making wonderful pieces!
Shooting game
Here’s a fun “shateki” (carnival shooting game) that may bring back memories of the festivals you went to as a child.
Spread out some newspaper or flyers, roll them up into a long tube, attach chopsticks and rubber bands, and make pellets using tissue—your shateki is complete.
It’s not a complicated build.
If you prepare in advance by, for example, cutting the chopsticks shorter, it may be easier for older adults to make as well.
It’s enjoyable both to create and to play with the finished piece.
Be sure to draw targets on plastic bottles or construction paper and try playing a shateki game.
It might even spark some nostalgic memories.
Yarn wreath
Let’s try making a wreath using a ring made from newspaper.
The process isn’t very complicated, so it’s easy for older adults to enjoy as well.
Once you’ve formed the newspaper into a ring, wrap yarn around and around it to create the base of the wreath.
Try adding yarn pom-poms or flowers made from felt.
With a few tweaks, you can make a wreath that suits the season or a special occasion.
Creating it together can also help you feel the changing seasons.
Of course, ready-made decorations from 100-yen shops or craft stores work just fine.
You can also get creative with what you wrap around the base—using fabric-type yarn like T-shirt yarn, for example—which makes it a great project even in warmer seasons.