Have you always thought it would be cool to have a train set circling your Christmas tree? They are very cool, and some are even quite extravagant. You can spend a lot of money adding to and updating train sets.
If you’re children are small or if you simply prefer to spend more on gifts than on train sets, I think you’ll like this craft. It’s a very simple yet cute idea that you can make using common items. Shoeboxes or other similarly sized boxes are perfect for boxcars.
Decorate the boxes by painting, covering with fabric, or using contact paper. Add ribbon or trim, just above the bottom edge. Small wooden rounds found at any craft store make great wheels. Paint them, glue them on so half of each one is attached to the box and half is hanging down, so your boxcars will be up off the floor, resting on the wheels.
For the Engine, use a box with a lid and glue another smaller box atop the lid, at one end. Fold a heavy rectangle shaped piece of cardboard to make a “cow pusher” and glue it to the opposite end of the box. Decorate, adding windows to the little box on top. For the caboose, you’ll also need a box with a lid. Glue a smaller box on top in the center. Add windows to it and decorate.
Glue ribbon or plastic chain to the end of each box to attach one to the other, and place them around the tree. Fill the open boxes (boxcars) with small gifts, treats, or decorative items.
Variations:
Instead of plain wheels for your train cars, purchase toy cookies and glue them on instead. Use plastic candies and candy canes to decorate your boxcars, engine, and caboose, and make a treat inspired train.
Make a dimensional train track around the Christmas tree. Cut strips of felt and glue them together end to end to form a large circle. Glue on craft sticks, evenly spaced, until they go all the way around. Paint the craft sticks if desired.
More Holiday Ideas:
Christmas Crafts: Music Inspired Decoration or Gift
Holiday Decorating: Use What You Have
Holiday Decorating: Quick Tips with Ribbon