![Simple materials [crafts using newspaper] for seniors](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/VAdlbMNMgE8/maxresdefault.webp)
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)
water-drip paper art
“Mizukirie” is a craft where you moisten newspaper with water, cut out pieces, and paste them onto a backing to create a picture.
It’s a type of torn-paper art that uses the colored sections of newspapers to complete the work.
Because you cut out the damp newspaper with your fingertips and paste it down, it helps train fine motor skills.
In addition, tasks like planning the color placement while envisioning the finished piece stimulate and activate the brain.
For older adults who may be hesitant to draw, creating pictures by pasting pieces in mizukirie can be easier to try.
The style changes depending on which parts you take from the newspaper, so the finished pieces are full of individuality.
By all means, encourage older adults to create works that make the most of their own ideas.
Cute cat
There are all sorts of ads printed in newspapers, aren’t there? Let’s use the colors of the ads and text to make a “cute cat.” The method is simple: roll up sheets of newspaper to form the head and body.
The action of rolling newspaper with your fingers and hands—while thinking about the finished piece—is said to stimulate the brain.
As you enjoy creating your project, you can also gently train your fingers and hands, with potential brain-training benefits as well.
Try using the colors from newspaper ads and text for the facial features and body patterns.
Of course, you can also color it with pens to make it look lovely.
A newspaper cat displayed at home or in a care facility can bring a warm, soothing feeling.
By all means, try making other animals too, not just cats.
eco bag
Since 2020 (Reiwa 2), due to global environmental concerns, plastic shopping bags used at supermarkets and other stores have been subject to a fee.
With this change, more people may have started carrying reusable shopping bags (eco bags).
So let’s try making an “eco bag” that you can use for quick shopping trips.
The steps aren’t complicated, making it an easy project for older adults as well.
You can make not only the main compartment but also the handles out of newspaper.
As for durability, it’s sturdy enough to hold a water bottle.
Beyond serving as an eco bag, it’s also versatile enough to store documents or letters you have at home.
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!
Heart-shaped bag
Let’s try making a cute “heart-shaped eco-bag” using newspaper or wrapping paper.
We’ll create the compartment for holding items by folding the paper the way you fold an origami heart.
The folding steps use your fingertips dexterously, which stimulates and activates the brain.
You can expect a brain-training effect while having fun.
Fold and make the handles too, then attach them to the heart-shaped bag.
It’s also recommended to use English-language newspapers or patterned wrapping paper sold at 100-yen shops.
You’ll end up with a piece that has a different feel from ordinary newspaper.
It seems perfect as a small organizer at home or as a bag for your grandchild’s gift.
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.
Mixed paper collection bag
Items like tissue boxes, postcards, and wrapping paper are recyclable paper known as mixed paper.
Even if something is made of paper, not all items count as mixed paper.
To make sorting easier for trash day, it’s handy to prepare a “mixed paper collection bag.” Try making one using newspaper or a completed copy of your city or town’s newsletter.
If you use thicker paper like a newsletter, you can use a single sheet to make the bag.
If you use thin paper like newspaper, layer two sheets together before making it.
Once you’ve filled the bag with mixed paper, you can set it out as is on trash day.
You can make it while seated at a table, so why not try making some while chatting with an older family member?