How to Make a Shrinky Dink Yule Log

Yule logs were originally burned in fireplaces during the Christmas season. They then turned in to cakes that were made to look like a log. Now we can take the history of the yule log and turn it in to a craft for the children. Kids can have fun making a large yule log on some Shrinky Dink paper and then watching in amazement as the log shrinks down to a smaller size.

Things You'll Need

• Shrinky Dink sheet
• Pencil crayons
• Cookie sheets
• Oven
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Buy a set of Shrinky Dink sheets from your favorite craft store or the manufacturer. (Follow the link in Resources.) These packages generally cost between $3 and $5.

2. Take out a Shrinky Dink sheet and lay it rough side up on your table. (That means the smooth side will be facing the table.)

3. Use a brown pencil crayon to trace an outline of your yule log. Remember to make your yule log bigger than you really want it, because it is going to shrink.

4. Color in your yule log with your pencil crayons. Add any decorations, such as holly leaves, acorns or Christmas bows.

5. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F.

6. Cut out your yule log, but leave a clear edge all the way around. This will give it some extra room when it shrinks.

7. Place the yule log on your cookie sheet, with the colored (rough) side facing up.

8. Set the cookie sheet in the oven for 60 seconds and no longer. Remove from the heat.

9. Let cool for at least 20 minutes before using.

Tips & Warnings

• Turn your yule log in to a magnet by placing a magnetic strip on its back.

• Turn your yule log in to a necklace by using a hole puncher to punch a hole in the top. Then thread a string through the hole and tie it in a spot that gives you enough room to slip the yule-log necklace over your head.

• Don't take your eyes off of the yule log while it is in the oven. It can burn in a matter of 2 seconds.

Resources

• Shrinky Dink Store