Crafting and Inspiring Hanukkah Joy

Enjoy these handmade and homemade ideas for celebrating the Festival of Lights.

Hanukkah Greeting Card

Designer Krista Crawford shares an idea for a Hanukkah card combining old and new techniques. This card was designed and printed on a computer, and a wax-seal imprint of the Star of David provides a bold touch. Dip the stamp in oil so that it doesn't stick when pressed into the melted wax.

Star of David Ornament

Designer Robb Whittlef suggests building a lighted Star of David ornament out of a wood frame and sheet steel. First build a wooden frame in the shape of the Star of David, and then have two pieces of sheet steel cut to fit it. Attach the steel to the front and back of the frame, and hammer holes mirroring the star shape in the front panel. Cut a hole in the back and wire it for a light.

Glowing Hanukkah Cookie Cutters

Culinary expert Coleen Miner shows how to make glowing Hanukkah cookie cutters, a tasty decoration that guests can take home with them.

Ingredients:

cookie cutters shaped like the Star of David
blue hard-sugar candies, finely crushed
tea candles

Preparation:

Place the cookie cutters on a cookie sheet lined with aluminum foil, and spoon the crushed candy into the cutters.

Bake in a 375-degree oven for eight minutes or until the candies melt. Cool completely, and then peel off the foil. Stand the cutters on edge and place a tea candle behind them to illuminate the cutters.

Star of David Calendar Wreath

Parenting expert Donna Erickson has a Hanukkah project that parents and children can enjoy working on together, and it's also a great way to stay organized during the season.

Fold sheets of colored art paper, and draw a Star of David on the top fold. Cut out the pattern and leave the flaps attached at the crease, creating a two-page flap. Number the outside flap with the days of the month, and fill in the inner flap with a task or notable event for the day. String the stars together, and use them to decorate a mantel or banister.