Free Gnome Handprint Art for Christmas

This gnome handprint craft is one we come back to every December.

It’s simple to set up, doesn’t make a huge mess, and turns out really sweet. My son likes picking the paint colors and adding extras to make each gnome look different.

It’s a fun way to make something festive together, and it works just as well at home or in a classroom setting.

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Christmas Handprint Gnome Art

This Christmas handprint craft is festive, simple, and one of those activities kids genuinely enjoy. With the free printable template, all you need is some paint, a brush, and a bit of space to get creative.

Start by printing the template on cardstock, it holds up better when you’re using paint. Lay out a tablecloth or newspaper to keep things tidy, then let the kids decide how their gnome should look.

We went with gray for the beard, but white, brown, or even glitter paint works just as well.

Paint the palm and fingers of one hand with a thin layer of paint, then press it just below the gnome’s nose so the fingers form the beard.

Press gently and evenly for the best print. If you want a fuller look, repeat the process with the other hand to create a “V” shape.

Let the paint dry completely before adding finishing touches. Googly eyes are optional, but they give the gnome a bit of personality.

Kids can also decorate the hat, add snowflake details, or use markers to make their gnome unique.

Once finished, these make sweet holiday keepsakes or decorations, and they’re easy enough to do again next year.

More Christmas Activities

Looking for more ways to keep little hands busy this season? Here are a few of our favorite festive ideas:

• Listen to classic Christmas stories for kids, perfect for quiet afternoons or bedtime wind-downs.
• Print out some Elf on the Shelf coloring pages and let the kids get creative with their elf’s latest adventures.
• Grab a set of free Christmas bingo cards for a fun, low-prep game the whole family can play together.
• Try another handprint keepsake with our Christmas tree craft, easy to make and fun to personalize.
• Or make a sweet handprint angel using our free template, simple, meaningful, and just right for holiday decorating.

Favorite Christmas Gnome Books

If your kids love gnomes as much as mine does, these books are a cozy way to extend the theme after crafting. We’ve read all of these in our house, and they’ve each earned a spot on our holiday shelf.

A Gnome’s Christmas – This one feels a little more traditional and magical, with beautiful illustrations and a gentle, old-fashioned tone. It’s ideal for slightly older kids or for cozy family reading by the tree.

Gnome for the Holidays – This one is colorful, cheerful, and full of holiday spirit. It’s the kind of book that’s fun to read aloud, and the story blends in a nice message about kindness and connection. My son especially liked the gnome’s wild adventures.

The Little Winter Book of Gnomes – This is a beautiful little gift book with whimsical illustrations and a quiet, peaceful tone. It’s not a full-length story, but it’s lovely to flip through, and would pair nicely with a cup of cocoa and your finished gnome craft.

These pair really well with the gnome handprint craft, especially if you want to turn it into a themed morning or quiet afternoon activity.

Get Your Free Christmas Gnome Handprint Template Here!

Ready to grab your free printable? Just pop your name and email into the form below, and it’s all yours!

If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free handprint template.

Last Updated on 5 August 2025 by Clare Brown