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Cute + Crafty: DIY Cardboard Gingerbread Village
This just in: We’ve got everything you need to DIY the most charming (and inexpensive) Christmas village in town.
You’ve hung your lights and decorated the tree, but your home is still missing that final touch of Christmas spirit. Might we recommend a reusable gingerbread-style Christmas village? Start saving all those cardboard delivery boxes for an almost free DIY that is sure to add a touch of Christmas magic to your home. Plus, it’s the perfect way to style a mantel or credenza that is in need of a little help. Before you go out and spend a fortune on gingerbread house kits, try this low-mess alternative that will save you a bundle!
Materials Needed
- cardboard house template
- cardboard
- marker
- ruler
- utility knife
- vellum paper
- hot glue gun + sticks
- puff paint
- extra fine glitter
Mark and Cut Cardboard Using Template
Before getting started, be sure to print out this handy template. Now it’s time to get to work cutting cardboard. Use a utility knife to cut the flaps off of a medium-sized cardboard box and set aside for later use. Next, use the template and a straight edge to mark the cut and fold lines on the cardboard. Cut away all unnecessary material until the cardboard piece matches the template.
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Add Windows and Door
Now that the basic shape has been created, use your straight edge and a marker to draw windows and doors on the front of the house. Cut the windows and doors out using a utility knife and then cut vellum paper slightly larger than the openings. Secure the vellum to the inside of the house using hot glue.
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Score and Fold Hardware
At each corner of the home, use a utility knife to score and apply pressure with a straight edge for a crisp crease. Hot glue the house along the tab and hold in place until the glue cools.
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Attach Roof
Grab one of the flaps that you set aside earlier and mock-up the roof in order to determine the ideal width. Once marked, use a ruler to mark the entirety of the flap and use a utility knife to cut off the excess material. Once the flap is cut to size, use the straight edge to mark the center and score with the knife. Fold at the scored point and hot glue to the house’s gables.
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Jalynn Baker
Add a Little Glam
Dress up your little gingerbread house by adding accents around the door and windows using puff paint. Finish things off by coating the roof with puff paint and extra fine glitter to achieve the quintessential snow-covered look. To create your ideal Christmas village, feel free to break away from the template and create a beautiful assortment of cardboard gingerbread houses.
Jalynn Baker
