Weaving is a beloved craft for makers of all ages, but small children it can also double as a great way to practice fine motor skills. Manipulating the materials in and out of a loom requires concentration and a crafty attitude. If you’re looking for a quieter activity to enjoy in between holidays this week, have your child practice paper weaving with a small loom made from colorful cardstock.
Materials
- Colorful cardstock
- Ruler, scissors and pencil
- Craft knife and cutting mat
Instructions
To prep the “loom” for your child, start by cutting a 5″ square from a piece of cardstock. Create a cutting grid on the loom by creating a 1″ border all the way around the square, and then measuring 1″ across to three times.
Next, carefully make slits along the inside measurements you made. On a loom, these would be called the warp. Erase any visible pencil lines with your eraser.
Using another color of cardstock, cut five weft pieces that are 1/2″ wide and 5″ long.
It’s time to start weaving!
As your child works with the paper loom, alternate the introduction of the weft as you work so that a checkerboard pattern is created. When the piece is finished, they can practice again or turn it into an oversized coaster by having it laminated at your local office supply store.
