As the festive cheer of the holiday season gradually fades and the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some creative pursuits.
January can often bring about cold, snowy days, prompting us to seek activities that can be enjoyed from the warmth and comfort of our own homes.
DIY winter crafts offer a wonderful escape, not just as a means to create beautiful artistic pieces, but also to enjoy the numerous benefits that come with crafting: from stress relief to a sense of accomplishment.
In this article, you will find a selection of January crafts tailored for adults.
Each project is intended to brighten the darker days with a hint of sparkle, a touch of elegance, or a dash of coziness.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or someone looking to try out a new hobby, these crafts will provide an enjoyable challenge and a satisfying result.
So grab your hot chocolate, put on some comfy clothes, and prepare to get creative with these five engaging January crafts perfect for adults!
Giant Snowflake Light-Up Marquee
Overview of the Craft
Imagine a large, dazzling snowflake that doesn’t melt away — one that lights up to add a bit of magic to your winter evenings.
A giant snowflake light-up marquee does just that.
It’s a decorative piece you can hang in your living room, by a window, or even on your porch.
This craft can be a statement piece in your winter decor and it’s surprisingly simple to make.
Materials Needed
· Large wooden snowflakes (available at craft stores)
· String lights (battery-operated LED lights work well)
· Drill with various-sized drill bits
· White spray paint or acrylic paint
· Paintbrush (if using acrylic paint)
· Hot glue gun and glue sticks
· Clear tape
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Begin by painting your wooden snowflake.
Whether you choose spray paint or acrylic paint, aim for an even coat to give it a frosty appearance.
Let it dry completely.
2. Next, using the drill, create small holes where you want the lights to shine through.
You can follow the design of the snowflake or add random patterns for a starry effect.
3. After drilling the holes, wipe off any sawdust and give the snowflake another coat of paint if needed.
4. Once the paint is dry, push the lights through the backside of the snowflake, securing them with a bit of hot glue if necessary.
Use clear tape to manage the wiring and keep it neat.
5. Insert batteries into the LED string lights, then turn on the lights to ensure every bulb is functioning.
6. Find the perfect spot to hang your new marquee snowflake, and let it glow!
Tips for Customization
· For a colorful twist, use a different paint color or multi-colored LED string lights.
· Add glitter to the edges of the snowflake before the paint dries for an added sparkle.
· You could even attach ribbons or faux gems for an even more decadent design.
Benefits of Making a Giant Snowflake Light-Up Marquee
Creating this craft can be incredibly soothing.
Engaging in the repetitive process of painting and assembling the lights provides a meditative experience.
Once completed, the ambient light it casts can give your space a cozy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for winter nights.
Boho Winter Wreath
Overview of the Craft
The boho style is synonymous with a natural, understated elegance.
A Boho winter wreath will not only welcome guests with its charm but it can also be a delightful addition to your home decor.
It combines rustic elements with modern chic, making it versatile for any home style.
Materials Needed
· A grapevine wreath base
· A selection of dried flowers and greenery (like eucalyptus or pine branches)
· Floral wire
· Wire cutters
· Ribbon or lace for hanging
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Decide on the design before you start.
You might want to have a full wreath of greenery or just a section adorned with florals — it’s up to you.
2. Begin attaching your greenery to the grapevine wreath using floral wire.
Work your way around, adding layers and securing them until you’re satisfied with the fullness.
3. Intersperse dried flowers among the greenery, using the floral wire to fix them into place.
4. If you’re going for a minimalist look, keep the design simple by adding embellishments to just one-quarter or half of the wreath.
5. Once you’re happy with the arrangement, tie the ribbon or lace at the top of the wreath for hanging.
Tips for Customization
· Select a color scheme that matches your existing decor for a cohesive look.
· Introduce seasonal items like pinecones or cinnamon sticks for a winter theme.
· Use burlap or chunky knit ribbon for a more textured look.
Benefits of Making a Boho Winter Wreath
Aside from the clear aesthetic advantages, creating a winter wreath lets you bring a touch of nature indoors during a time when the outside world can seem quite barren.
Additionally, crafting can be a therapeutic activity that allows for self-expression and can even improve mood.
Frosted Luminaries
Overview of the Craft
There’s something exceptionally calming about the soft glow of candlelight against the crisp backdrop of winter.
Frosted luminaries are the perfect way to capture this serene ambiance.
They mimic the look of icy lanterns and can be customized to match any decor style.
Materials Needed
· Glass jars of various sizes
· Mod Podge or white glue
· Epsom salt
· Paintbrush
· Tea lights or small candles
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by spreading a thin layer of Mod Podge or white glue on the outside of a clean glass jar.
2. Roll the jar in Epsom salt, making sure to cover the glued area completely; this will give the jar a frosted look, reminiscent of ice or snow.
3. Allow the jar to dry thoroughly.
You might want to place it on wax paper to prevent sticking.
4. Once dry, you can place a tea light or small candle inside and enjoy the flickering glow through the frosted exterior.
Tips for Customization
· Add a drop or two of blue or silver food coloring to the glue to achieve a colored frost effect.
· Tie raffia, ribbons, or twine around the neck of the jar for an extra decorative touch.
· For an aromatic twist, place a scented candle inside and enjoy the warmth of light and scent.
Benefits of Making Frosted Luminaries
Crafting these luminaries not only provides a lovely addition to your home but also encourages a relaxing environment.
The act of making them can be quite Zen-like, and once they’re completed and lit, they help create the perfect ambiance for unwinding after a long day.
Winter Snowflake Pillow
Overview of the Craft
Soft furnishings can transform the feel of a room, and a winter snowflake pillow can do just that with its cozy charm.
It adds a seasonal touch without being over the top and can be proudly displayed on a sofa or armchair.
Materials Needed
· A plain throw pillow
· Felt or fabric in your choice of color
· A snowflake stencil or pattern
· Fabric glue
· Scissors
· Sequins or beads (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Use the snowflake stencil or pattern to cut out the snowflake shape from your chosen felt or fabric.
2. Place the cutout on the pillow and move it around until you find the perfect spot.
3. Once you’re happy with the placement, apply fabric glue to the back of the snowflake cutout and carefully place it on the pillow.
4. Apply pressure gently and let the glue dry completely.
5. If you wish, you can embellish the snowflake with sequins or beads for a touch of sparkle.
Tips for Customization
· Use a contrasting fabric color for the snowflake to make it stand out against the pillow.
· Experiment with different snowflake sizes or multiple snowflakes on one pillow for a unique look.
· Stitch the edges of the snowflake for a more durable hold and a handcrafted feel.
Benefits of Making a Winter Snowflake Pillow
In addition to sprucing up your winter decor, the process of making a snowflake pillow can be a wonderful way to unwind and practice mindfulness.
It’s a simpler craft that yields results you can enjoy every day, bringing a handmade touch to your living space.
Snowflake Bath Bombs
Overview of the Craft
A cozy, warm bath during the chilly months can be the ultimate relaxation.
Add to that experience with homemade snowflake bath bombs that fizz and dissolve, releasing soothing scents and skin-nourishing ingredients.
Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful gift, these bath bombs are a delightful craft to make in January.
Materials Needed
· Baking soda
· Citric acid
· Cornstarch
· Epsom salt
· Essential oils (such as lavender or eucalyptus)
· Sweet almond oil or coconut oil
· Witch hazel or water in a spray bottle
· Silicone snowflake molds
· Mixing bowls
· Whisk
· Food coloring (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—baking soda, citric acid, cornstarch, and Epsom salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients—your choice of oil, essential oils, and a few drops of food coloring if desired.
3. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring constantly.
The mixture should be slightly moist and hold together when squeezed, but not so wet that it starts fizzing.
4. If needed, spritz the mixture with witch hazel or water to get the right consistency.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the snowflake molds and let them set until hard, which could take several hours or overnight.
6. Once hardened, carefully remove the bath bombs from the molds.
Tips for Customization
· Play with colors and essential oils to create a unique scent and look.
· Add dried flower petals, such as rose or lavender, for extra visual appeal and fragrance.
· Use a mixture of different molds to create a variety of shapes.
Benefits of Making Snowflake Bath Bombs
Creating your bath bombs allows you to tailor them to your skin’s needs and your scent preferences.
This craft can be a perfect introduction to the larger world of homemade skin care.
Moreover, it’s a deeply satisfying project that results in a luxurious product you can use to pamper yourself on a snowy day.
Conclusion
You now have five vibrant January crafts perfect for keeping adults entertained and creative during the winter season.
Each project offers a unique way to celebrate the season while providing an opportunity to engage in the therapeutic benefits of crafting.
From the enchanting glow of a Giant Snowflake Light-Up Marquee to the sweet allure of Snowflake Bath Bombs, these crafts are designed to enrich your winter experience.
The array of benefits that come with engaging in DIY winter crafts extends beyond the joy of creating something beautiful.
It’s about taking the time for yourself, to relax and focus on what’s in front of you, and to emerge with something that can either adorn your home or be used in your daily life.
So why not make the most of those chilly January days by trying out some of these ideas? Whether you’re crafting alone or with loved ones, you’re sure to enjoy the process as much as the result.
Let your imagination run wild, and allow the peaceful, quiet beauty of winter to inspire you into making something truly special.
