Appropriate age group(s):
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School

Estimated time to make this gift:
30 minutes

Materials:
Plaster of paris
Disposable small foil pie or bread pan.
Ribbon

(Optional)
Toothpicks
Paint
Colored sprinkles
Recent very small photo of child

Instructions:
This is a very easy project that can be done (with help) even with a very young child.

1. Cut a 6 inch length of ribbon, folding it in two (this will be to hang the ornament) and place it against the side of the tin (or plastic) pie or bread pan, so that about an inch will be embedded in the plaster.

2. Mix the plaster of paris according to the directions on the box, making sure it's not too watery.

3. Fill the bottom of the aluminum (or plastic) pie or bread pan until the mixture touches all the sides and is about an inch thick. (Hold the ribbon as you do this so it doesn't get completely covered with plaster.

4. Have the child press his/her handprint into the center of the plaster, making sure enough pressure is applied to leave an impression.

5. (Optional) If desired, use the toothpicks to etch the child's name, Merry Christmas, etc. Add colored sprinkles, or dabs of paint around the edges. You can also place a tiny recent picture of the child in the center of the handprint.

6. Allow the cast to fully dry (according to directions on the plaster of paris box), then gently remove from the pie/bread pan.

Other comments or suggestions to consider:
This is a rather delicate ornament, so it should be carefully wrapped and considered fragile.

It's a great ornament to pass down to the child when they're an adult.