Simple String Art - Weaving an Easter Cross

This simple activity enables kids to create some beautiful three-dimensional art, & explore the Easter Story.


To make these Easter Crosses we used:
A small block of wood (we picked up some offcuts up from a local DIY store)
5 Nails (40mm) for each cross
Coloured yarn/string
Hammer
Ruler, scissors & pen


Using the ruler we marked out a cross shape in the centre of the wooden block so we could clearly see where to add the nails. We then hammered the nails into the four points of the cross, & one into the centre. 

More nails could be added if wish to create a more detailed weaving frame, but we kept this one pretty simple. (Obviously, my daughter is at an age & stage where she can use a hammer independently under adult supervision. If you have a younger child you may like them to hold the hammer with you as you tap in the nails, or undertake this part of the activity yourself.)


With all the nails added the simple framework was ready for us to use. 


Start by taking a length of yarn & securing it around one of the nails. To create the cross shape just loop the wool around the nails & weave it in & around each one. We found it easier to do the centre of the cross first, just weaving up & down in one direction, & then moving from the centre nail to the arms of the cross.


You can add different colours by securing the lengths of the previous yarn to the new one & continue weaving. As your weave gets a little thicker, gently pushing down the yarn to free up a little more space on the nails.  


 You could add many lengths of yarn or just one, use one or more colours, the joy of this activity is that children can create their own design. 


This Easter activity not only encourages creativity, problem-solving, motor skills, & coordination, the end result is a beautiful & colourful three-dimensional work of art that can be displayed year after year.


We used this activity to help us explore the Easter Story & the transforming power of the cross.

Looking for more activities exploring the Easter Story? 
Take a look HERE.