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Easiest Father's Day Gift - Hands Down!

By Lori Wondra, Macaroni Kid Publisher June 9, 2021

It seems like handprints are a go-to gift for parent and grandparent gifts and why not? They mark a moment of time and growth that you won't see again. They are fun to display and the kids love fitting their hands over theirs from previous years, marveling (like the grown-ups do) at how quickly they've grown. The photos above are of projects from 2018 and 2020 - such a contrast in sizes! 

We've created garden stones for Grandma (hand and footprints in cement molds) that, decorated with gems and other items, now adorn the front walkway to their home. We did a different take for grandpa and dad for Father's Day, transforming some handprints on canvas to reflect each of our kids' favorite superhero and movie characters. A quick search of pinterest can help with ideas for handprints and sayings to match any interest - we still have plans to create fish and tractors someday. 

If you have canvas and paint, you are moments away from completing a very special keepsake for Father's Day or any special occcasion. Handprint gifts can take many forms! Consder cardstock, canvas, coasters, t-shirts, pillow cases or ceramic pieces. Color Me Mine offers some great pieces and expert help completing these types of projects as well. 

For now, here's a quick how-to for these simple and fun gifts we created. 

Needed:

  • Paint - we've found acrylic to provide the boldest prints but washable tempera also works 
  • Paintbrush - we've found it easier to apply paint directly to hands vs dipping them in paint
  • Canvas or other surface for the final product - cardstock, canvas, t-shirt, pillowcase, ceramic piece, etc. Note that different paints or finishing supplies may be needed for different surfaces.
  • Assorted markers and paints for transforming the handprints into the design you wish 
  • Paper plate
  • Table covering
  • Wipes or washcloths


Recommended Steps: 

  • Cover your kitchen table or hard surface with a trash bag or other table covering.
  • Select your favorite paint color. Squirt onto a paper plate.
  • Using a paint brush, paint the palm of your child’s hand.
  • Place the painted hand on the designated part of the canvas. Press down all parts of the hand out to the fingertips.
  • Lift hand in one swift motion.
  • Finish by painting details for the theme you've chosen. Don't forget to add names and ages!


I'm always amazed at how fun these are to create and how quickly they come together! With four kids, I have them come to the table one by one and personally escort each one directly to the sink to wash their hands off after making the print(s). By the time everyone is clean and dry, the prints are dry enough to begin adding detail with markers or other paints. We've done multiple gifts at one time and love how no two are exactly alike. Have fun personalizing your gifts! Remember - what matters most with a homemade gift is the heart behind it!