These Animal Holiday Crackers are perfect for beginners and an ideal project for kiddos. With simple materials like cardstock (we suggest a cutting machine for precision), a few crafting tools, and your imagination, you can begin cracking away at these in no time. We included felt scarves to add a cozy touch, but decorative ribbons or twine would also work beautifully.

The tradition of Christmas crackers dates back to Victorian England, where they served as festive table decorations that “cracked” open to reveal treats and small surprises. Today, they’ve become a holiday staple, adding fun and excitement to gatherings of all kinds. These crackers bring a playful twist to a cherished custom by pairing this time-honored tradition with adorable animal designs.

Our step-by-step tutorial will guide you through techniques such as assembling the cracker’s body and attaching the animal faces. The fun doesn’t stop there—you can personalize these crackers by filling them with small candies, notes, or even confetti. Add festive embellishments like glitter or metallic paper for an extra sparkly finish!

Once your Papercut Animal Holiday Crackers are complete, use them to add a playful touch to your holiday table setting. They’re particularly charming at the kids’ table or as party favors for guests to take home. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on Instagram using #MadeWithLia, and join the conversation in our crafters’ community. Let’s spread the holiday cheer, one paper animal at a time!

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