25 Presidents Day Craft Ideas for Kids

Presidents' Day is the perfect excuse to pull out the glue sticks and make something proudly red, white, and blue without it feeling like “schoolwork.”

These ideas are designed for preschool through elementary ages, with lots of simple shapes kids can actually make (stars, flags, hats, and “Lincoln-style” beards).

1. Star-Spangled Handprint Flag

This classic handprint craft turns little hands into a keepsake flag you’ll want to save forever. It’s great for mixed ages because older kids can add details while younger kids just love the paint.

Supplies

• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 set washable kids paint red white blue
• 1 pack foam paint brushes
• 1 roll blue painters tape
• 1 pack gold star stickers

Directions

1. Tape off a small rectangle in the upper-left corner of the cardstock using blue painters tape so you have a “star area” space.
2. Use washable kids paint to paint red stripes across the paper (leave white gaps between stripes).
3. Let stripes dry, then peel the tape and paint the corner rectangle blue.
4. Press your child’s hand into white paint and stamp a handprint or two in the blue area (or skip handprints and do stickers for toddlers).
5. Finish by adding gold star stickers for sparkle, then let everything dry flat.

2. Paper Plate Lincoln Hat

This fun hat craft gives kids instant “presidential” energy and makes adorable photos. It’s easy to customize with stickers, stars, or a little paper beard.

Supplies

• 1 pack paper plates
• 1 pack black construction paper
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 set washable markers
• 1 pack glue sticks

Directions

1. Cut the center out of a paper plate, leaving the rim to make a headband base (adult help recommended with child safe scissors).
2. Measure black construction paper around the plate rim and cut a long rectangle to wrap as the hat band.
3. Cut a second black rectangle that’s taller, then glue it onto the band to create the “top hat” shape.
4. Use washable markers to add a buckle, stars, or “16” for Lincoln.
5. Glue the hat band onto the plate rim and let it set before wearing.

3. Popsicle Stick American Flag

This is a sturdy craft kids love because it looks like a real mini flag when it’s done. Great for classroom parties, parades around the house, or pretending to give a speech.

Supplies

• 1 pack jumbo popsicle sticks
• 1 bottle school glue
• 1 set washable kids paint red white blue
• 1 pack small paint brushes
• 1 pack white star stickers

Directions

1. Line up 7–8 jumbo sticks side by side on a table to form a rectangle.
2. Glue 2 sticks across the back to “hold” the flag together, then let dry 10–15 minutes.
3. Paint the top-left corner blue and paint red stripes across the rest using washable kids paint.
4. Let the paint dry completely, then add white star stickers to the blue corner.
5. Glue one extra stick vertically on the back as a handle if you want it to wave like a real flag.

4. “Mt. Rushmore” Rock Portraits

Kids get a kick out of turning rocks into “presidential faces,” and it’s a great way to practice simple features. Display them in a row like a mini monument.

Supplies

• 1 bag smooth craft rocks
• 1 set acrylic paint markers
• 1 set washable kids paint
• 1 pack small paint brushes
• 1 pack paper plates

Directions

1. Rinse and dry the rocks if needed, then set them on paper plates as your “paint palettes.”
2. Paint each rock a skin-tone base color using washable kids paint and let dry.
3. Use acrylic paint markers to add simple eyes, eyebrows, noses, and mouths.
4. Add iconic details: a tall hat shape, a little beard, or hair lines to help each rock look unique.
5. Let the rocks dry fully, then line them up like a mini “mountain” display.

5. Presidents' Day Star Garland

This makes instant party decor and looks so cute hanging across a mantel or classroom board. It’s also a great “scissor skills” project for kids who love cutting shapes.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue construction paper
• 1 pack star cookie cutter set
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 roll craft string
• 1 stapler

Directions

1. Trace star shapes onto red, white, and blue paper using a star cookie cutter set as your template.
2. Cut out the stars with child safe scissors, making a big stack.
3. Lay out the stars in a pattern (red-white-blue or mix it up) so kids can design their own garland.
4. Staple stars onto craft string, leaving a little space between each one.
5. Hang it up and fluff the stars forward so it looks full and festive.

6. “Honest Abe” Paper Bag Puppet

This is a silly, cute craft kids love because they can put on a mini puppet show afterward. The beard and hat details make it extra fun.

Supplies

• 1 pack paper lunch bags
• 1 pack black construction paper
• 1 pack googly eyes
• 1 pack glue sticks
• 1 set washable markers

Directions

1. Turn a paper bag so the flap is on the front—this becomes the puppet’s face.
2. Glue on googly eyes and draw a nose and smile using washable markers.
3. Cut a tall top-hat shape from black construction paper and glue it above the flap.
4. Cut a beard shape (a U-shape that frames the mouth) and glue it around the bottom of the face.
5. Let everything set, then have kids practice a “presidential speech” with their puppet.

7. Red, White, and Blue Marble Painting

This is a low-effort, high-wow art project that looks cool every single time. Kids love the “rolling” part and you get gorgeous abstract art to display.

Supplies

• 1 set washable kids paint red white blue
• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 set plastic paint trays
• 1 pack marbles
• 1 pack aluminum foil disposable pan

Directions

1. Place a sheet of cardstock in the bottom of an aluminum foil disposable pan.
2. Dip marbles into red, white, and blue paint (use plastic paint trays to keep colors separate).
3. Drop the marbles onto the paper, then have kids gently tilt the pan side to side.
4. Keep rolling until the paper is covered in streaks and swirls.
5. Remove the paper to dry flat, then frame it or turn it into a “holiday card” style keepsake.

8. Patriotic Paper Fan Medallions

These are super “party decor” looking and feel fancy even though they’re just paper and glue. Hang them as a backdrop for snack tables or photos.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue scrapbook paper
• 1 pack glue sticks
• 1 stapler
• 1 pack circle labels
• 1 roll double sided tape

Directions

1. Cut two long strips of scrapbook paper (about 3 inches wide each).
2. Fold each strip back and forth like an accordion fan, making crisp folds.
3. Staple the ends of each fan strip, then bring ends together to form a circle.
4. Use double sided tape or glue to secure the circle.
5. Stick a circle label in the middle and let kids draw a star or write “USA.”

9. “My Vote” Sticker Badge Craft

This is a fun little craft that kids can wear like a real badge. It’s quick, adorable, and a great warm-up activity before bigger projects.

Supplies

• 1 pack round blank stickers
• 1 set washable markers
• 1 pack red white blue star stickers
• 1 roll glitter tape
• 1 pack name tag pins

Directions

1. Give each child a blank round sticker and have them write “I Voted” or “My Vote” with washable markers.
2. Decorate with star stickers and a little border of glitter tape.
3. If you want it wearable, stick the finished design onto a name tag pin backing.
4. Let kids compare designs and “campaign” by trading compliments.

10. Toilet Paper Roll Monument Towers

This is a great recycling craft that looks impressive as a set. Kids can build “monuments” with their own patterns and colors.

Supplies

• 1 pack cardboard tubes craft
• 1 pack red white blue construction paper
• 1 pack glue sticks
• 1 set washable markers
• 1 pack star stickers

Directions

1. Wrap cardboard tubes with strips of construction paper and glue them down smoothly with glue sticks.
2. Decorate each tube using markers and star stickers—think stripes, zigzags, or “stone block” patterns.
3. Stack or line up the towers to create a mini “monument row” on a shelf or table.
4. Optional: add paper “steps” cut from scraps and glue at the base for a bigger display.

11. Stars-and-Stripes Crown

This wearable craft feels like a party accessory and makes kids instantly excited. It’s a great classroom activity because every crown turns out different.

Supplies

• 1 roll white cardstock paper
• 1 pack red blue glitter paper
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 stapler
• 1 pack star stickers

Directions

1. Cut cardstock into long strips wide enough for a crown band (about 2–3 inches tall).
2. Wrap the strip around the child’s head and staple to fit.
3. Cut crown points from glitter paper and attach them around the band with staples or glue.
4. Add star stickers and draw stripes with markers for a finishing touch.

12. “Lincoln Beard” Photo Frame

This craft makes the funniest photo moment: kids can hold it up and instantly become “Abe.” It’s perfect for parties and looks adorable as a keepsake.

Supplies

• 1 sheet black foam sheet
• 1 pack craft sticks
• 1 bottle school glue
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 pack googly eyes

Directions

1. Cut a big rectangle “frame” from a foam sheet with a center window big enough for a face.
2. Cut a beard shape (a rounded U that frames the mouth area) and glue it to the bottom of the frame.
3. Add googly eyes above the window for a cartoon look, or draw brows and a nose.
4. Glue a craft stick to the bottom or side so kids can hold it like a photo prop.

13. Bald Eagle Paper Plate Mask

This is a big hit because it’s wearable and dramatic. Kids can decorate feathers and add a bold yellow beak for a true “symbol” craft moment.

Supplies

• 1 pack paper plates
• 1 pack brown construction paper
• 1 pack yellow construction paper
• 1 pack elastic cord for masks
• 1 set washable markers

Directions

1. Cut eye holes in a paper plate (adult help), then color the plate white for the eagle head.
2. Cut a triangle beak from yellow paper and glue it to the center.
3. Cut feather shapes from brown paper and glue them around the outer edge like a mane.
4. Punch holes on both sides and tie on elastic cord so it fits comfortably.
5. Add details with markers like eyebrows, feather lines, or a dramatic eagle glare.

14. Puffy Paint Firework Stars

This is a sensory craft that looks extra special because it dries raised and textured. It’s great for kids who love messy, creative art time.

Supplies

• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 set puffy paint
• 1 pack star stencils
• 1 roll blue painters tape
• 1 pack paper plates

Directions

1. Tape cardstock to the table using blue painters tape to prevent slipping.
2. Place a star stencil on the paper and hold it down firmly.
3. Trace and fill the star shape with puffy paint, using dots and swirls for a “firework” effect.
4. Carefully lift the stencil and set the artwork somewhere flat to dry completely (usually overnight).

15. DIY “Presidential Seal” Sticker Collage

This is a simple, eye-catching craft that feels official and fun. Kids can design their own “seal” with stars, stripes, and a bold center icon.

Supplies

• 1 pack round white cardstock circles
• 1 pack red white blue sticker pack
• 1 set washable markers
• 1 pack glue dots
• 1 pack metallic star stickers

Directions

1. Give each child a cardstock circle and have them draw a ring around the edge with markers.
2. Fill the outer ring with star stickers to create a “seal” border.
3. Add a center design using sticker shapes (a star, heart, or simple bird shape) and glue dots if needed.
4. Write a fun title like “Kid President” or “Classroom Leader” around the edge.
5. Display seals together like a mini “gallery wall” of official badges.

16. Statue of Liberty Crown Craft

This is a dramatic, wearable craft kids love because it looks instantly recognizable. It’s perfect for pretend play after crafting time.

Supplies

• 1 pack green construction paper
• 1 pack glue sticks
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 stapler
• 1 set washable markers

Directions

1. Cut long strips of green paper and staple into a headband that fits.
2. Cut 7–9 tall triangle spikes and glue them evenly around the top edge of the headband.
3. Use markers to add simple line details or a tiny “torch” drawing on the front.
4. Let the glue dry for a few minutes, then wear and do a mini “history parade.”

17. “Campaign Button” Paper Pinwheels

These feel super festive and make great table decor or take-home crafts. Kids can customize them with slogans and star patterns.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue patterned paper
• 1 pack brads for paper fasteners
• 1 pack wooden dowel sticks
• 1 hole punch
• 1 set washable markers

Directions

1. Cut paper into squares (about 6x6 inches) and draw diagonal lines from corner to corner.
2. Cut along each diagonal line halfway toward the center (adult help for younger kids).
3. Fold every other corner into the center to form a pinwheel shape.
4. Punch holes through the folded corners and the center, then attach with a brad fastener.
5. Attach the pinwheel to a dowel stick and let kids write slogans like “Vote for Fun!” with markers.

18. Tissue Paper “Firework” Burst Painting

This craft creates a bright burst effect that looks like fireworks or confetti. It’s easy, colorful, and always looks impressive when it dries.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue tissue paper
• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 spray bottle for water
• 1 pack glue sticks
• 1 pack paper towels

Directions

1. Tear tissue paper into small squares and lightly glue a few onto the cardstock to anchor them.
2. Spritz the tissue paper with water using a spray bottle for water until it’s fully damp.
3. Press gently with paper towels so the colors transfer onto the cardstock.
4. Let it dry completely, then peel off the tissue to reveal a colorful burst pattern underneath.

19. Pom-Pom Patriotic Wreath (Kid Size)

This wreath is adorable on bedroom doors or classroom walls and feels very “decor.” Kids love the fluffy texture and you can keep it simple or super detailed.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue pom poms
• 1 pack paper plate ring craft
• 1 bottle tacky glue
• 1 roll red white blue ribbon
• 1 pair child safe scissors

Directions

1. Cut the center out of a sturdy paper plate to create a ring base.
2. Spread tacky glue onto a small section of the ring at a time.
3. Press pom-poms onto the glue in a repeating red-white-blue pattern.
4. Let the wreath dry flat, then tie a ribbon loop for hanging.

20. “White House” Fold-and-Draw Craft

This craft feels like a fun art lesson but stays simple and cute. Kids fold paper to create a symmetrical “building” shape, then add windows and flags.

Supplies

• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 set washable markers
• 1 pack red blue construction paper
• 1 pack glue sticks
• 1 ruler

Directions

1. Fold cardstock in half and draw half of a “building” outline along the fold, then cut to make a symmetrical shape.
2. Open the paper and use a ruler to draw straight window lines and columns.
3. Cut tiny flags from red and blue paper and glue them to the top corners.
4. Add a pathway, bushes, or a starburst “sun” with markers for extra detail.

21. Patriotic Scribble Art Stars

This is the easiest “looks cool no matter what” craft. Kids scribble colors first, then cut stars out and the patterns look amazing.

Supplies

• 1 set washable markers
• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 pack star stencils
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 pack glue sticks

Directions

1. Have kids fill a full sheet of cardstock with heavy scribbles in red, white (leave blank), and blue.
2. Trace star shapes on top using a stencil, then cut them out with scissors.
3. Glue the stars onto another sheet of paper in a pattern (circle, flag shape, or scattered confetti style).
4. Add a title like “Presidents Day” with markers and display.

22. Cupcake Liner Liberty Flowers

These look adorable in a jar like a little centerpiece, and they’re surprisingly easy. Kids can make a bunch quickly, so it’s great for groups.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue cupcake liners
• 1 pack green pipe cleaners
• 1 pack glue dots
• 1 pack mini pom poms
• 1 pair child safe scissors

Directions

1. Flatten two cupcake liners and stack them, then pinch the center.
2. Use glue dots to secure the center and attach a mini pom-pom as the flower middle.
3. Poke a small hole in the center and twist a pipe cleaner through to form a stem.
4. Fluff the liners to look like petals and make a whole bouquet.

23. Patriotic Mosaic Heart (Red, White, and Blue)

This craft is simple but looks super “Pinterest-worthy” when it’s finished. Kids create a mosaic heart using tiny paper squares for a bold, textured look.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue construction paper
• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 pack glue sticks
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 black marker

Directions

1. Draw a large heart outline on cardstock using a black marker.
2. Cut construction paper into tiny squares (kids can tear them for a fun texture).
3. Spread glue inside the heart outline and press squares down in stripes or random mosaic style.
4. Let dry, then trim any squares that hang over the edges.

24. “President Portrait” Silhouette Art

This looks surprisingly sophisticated and makes a great wall display. Kids can create a silhouette profile and decorate the background with stars.

Supplies

• 1 pack black cardstock
• 1 pack white cardstock paper
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 pack metallic star stickers
• 1 pack glue sticks

Directions

1. Have kids draw a simple side-profile face shape on black cardstock (forehead, nose, lips, chin).
2. Cut out the profile carefully with scissors.
3. Glue the silhouette onto white cardstock, placing it slightly off-center for a modern look.
4. Add star stickers around the silhouette like a “celebration” background.
5. Write “Presidents Day” and the year at the bottom if you want it as a keepsake.

25. Paper Chain “Unity” Banner

This craft is simple, meaningful, and looks festive hanging across a room. Kids can write kind words or “leader traits” on each link before chaining.

Supplies

• 1 pack red white blue construction paper
• 1 set washable markers
• 1 stapler
• 1 pair child safe scissors
• 1 pack star stickers

Directions

1. Cut paper into strips (about 1 inch wide and 6 inches long) using child safe scissors.
2. Have kids write one word per strip (kind, brave, fair, helper, leader) with markers.
3. Form the first strip into a loop and staple; thread the next strip through and staple, repeating to make a long chain.
4. Add star stickers to random links and hang the chain as a banner.

FAQ

What ages are these Presidents Day craft ideas best for?

Most of these work for preschool through elementary ages with small adjustments. For younger kids, pre-cut shapes using child safe scissors and focus on stickers and painting. Older kids can handle more folding, cutting, and detailed designs.

How can I keep craft time less messy?

Use washable supplies and set up a quick “craft station” with disposable table cover and washable kids paint. Having a stack of paper towels and a rinse cup nearby helps too. If you’re doing glue-heavy crafts, glue sticks bulk are usually cleaner than liquid glue.

What are easy Presidents Day crafts for a classroom party?

Sticker badges, star garlands, and popsicle stick flags are great because they’re simple, quick, and don’t need a lot of drying time. Bring extras like star stickers bulk and pre-cut paper shapes so kids can jump right in. Paper fan medallions also make cute group decor.

How do I make these crafts more “keepsake” worthy?

Add names and dates to the back using washable markers, then mount finished pieces on sturdy cardstock. You can also punch a hole and add ribbon for hanging—red white blue ribbon looks especially festive. For art projects, framing on cardstock instantly makes it look more polished.

What if I don’t have red, white, and blue supplies?

You can still do most of these using whatever you have—markers, crayons, or even just black-and-white silhouette style crafts. If you want an easy restock, a red white blue construction paper pack covers a lot of projects. Even simple star shapes and stripes will still feel on-theme.

Conclusion

These Presidents Day craft ideas are all about letting kids create something festive, wearable, and display-worthy—without needing complicated steps. With basics like glue sticks bulk and washable kids paint, you can mix and match projects for a full afternoon of fun.

Try pairing one “wear it” craft (like a crown or hat) with one “decorate the room” craft (like garlands or medallions) for maximum excitement. Keep a stack of white cardstock paper handy so kids can create extra stars, signs, and mini posters to go with their masterpieces.

Whether you’re crafting at home, in a classroom, or at a party, the best part is watching kids get proud of what they make. Pick a few favorites, set out the child safe scissors, and let them create their own little patriotic art gallery.