DIY Cardboard Gingerbread House: A Lasting Holiday Decoration
Bring a touch of festive creativity to your holiday season with this fun and sustainable DIY project! Inspired by Poli-Tape’s DIY Gingerbread House, we’ve added our own twist to this wonderful template. Get ready to craft a gingerbread house that’s not only customizable but will also last for years if stored properly.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Template (click to download)
- Cardboard box
- Hot glue gun and hot glue sticks
- Tape
- Parchment paper
- White glitter felt
- Exacto knife
- Colored pencils
- Acrylic paint pens
- Mini craft wreath
- Additional decorative materials (get creative and use whatever inspires you!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Trace the Template onto Cardboard
Print your template and trace it onto the cardboard box. Follow the formation shown below to ensure your house pieces remain connected for easy assembly.
2. Cut Out Your Pieces
Using an Exacto knife, carefully cut along the traced lines. Keep the house pieces connected where instructed in the template for easier folding and assembling.
3. Decorate Your House
This is where your creativity can shine! Here are a few ideas:
Cut out windows and tape parchment paper behind them for a frosted effect.
Use white paint pens and brown colored pencils to add decorative details.
Attach white glitter felt to the roof to mimic snowy shingles.
Feel free to add any other decorative elements that inspire you, such as sequins, beads, or small craft items.
4. Assemble Your House
Fold the cardboard pieces according to the template’s guidelines. Use the small piece included in the template to help attach the sides of the house securely. Use hot glue to secure the edges and build the base of the house. Finally, glue the roof to the top of your structure. For a detailed look at this process, check out our video tutorial below.
5. Add Finishing Touches
Once the house is assembled, it’s time to add some festive flair:
Attach a mini wreath to the front door.
Place the house over a battery-operated tea light for a glowing effect.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Gingerbread House
Sustainable: Unlike edible gingerbread houses, this one can be reused year after year.
Customizable: Use materials that match your personal style or holiday theme.
Fun for Everyone: This activity is perfect for families, couples, and friends. You can even host a decorating competition or pair the crafting session with a holiday movie and cocoa!
Share Your Creations
We’d love to see how your DIY gingerbread house turns out! Tag us on social media and show off your masterpiece.
For a closer look at the assembly process, watch our step-by-step video below:
