How to Make a Thumbprint Tree

Here's a fun project that gives your child a chance to get dirty fingers for an afternoon while creating a keepsake that you can keep forever.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• 4 X 4 tile
• Green paint
• Red paint
• Poem

1. Paint your child's thumb red. This will be the top of your Christmas tree.
2. Press your child's thumb near the top center of the tile.
3. Wash your child's thumb and let him or her dip it in green paint.
4. Continue your tree. Press your child's thumb below his or her red print. Do not put it directly below the print but slightly to the left and a second one slightly to the right. The form should resemble a bowling pin.
5. Continue this pattern to the bottom of the tile, expanding each layer by one extra print.
6. Print out a copy on of the poem below or find a poem you like that fits on the back of a tile.
   
   My dirty little fingerprints
   I've left on every wall,
   And on the drawers and tabletops
   I've really marked them all,
   But here is one that won't rub off
   I'm giving it to you,
   Because I am so thankful
   For a mom just like you!
7. Glue the poem on the back of the tile and then put a layer of glue over the paper. This will keep it from peeling off.

Tips & Warnings

• You can address the poem to any parent, grandparent or relative.