It’s another Christmas season, and as parents, we all know one of the things that makes this time of year beautiful is how we spend it with our loved ones, especially our kids – like the little traditions or the crafts we make together… because that’s actually the stuff they remember, nothing else.

And if you’re like me, you’re always looking for cute, low-prep Christmas crafts you can pull together with basic stuff around the house. It’s exactly why I save my toilet paper rolls every time, because they always come in handy at the right moment, as they did with this craft.

If you enjoy simple crafts like this, be sure to check out our collection of simple craft ideas here.

Supplies you’ll need

  • Empty toilet paper rolls
  • Scissors
  • Paint markers
  • Tape
  • Yarn

If you want to stock up, here are some Amazon faves:

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Step-by-Step: Toilet Paper Roll Gingerbread Village Garland

Step 1: Flatten the Toilet Paper Rolls

Start by gently pressing your toilet paper rolls flat with your hand, as this makes them easier to cut and helps them take that “house” shape once you trim the tops.

Step 2: Cut the Rolls Into an Ark Shape

Cut the top of each flattened roll into an ark shape. Begin on one side, curve your cut up and over the top, then back down to the other side. When you’re done, it should look like two stone tablets with a soft, rounded top. This immediately turns your toilet paper roll into the shape of a little gingerbread cottage.

Step 3: Design Your Gingerbread Houses

This is the fun part. Put the rolls on your craft table and design them together with your kids using your paint markers. You can draw gingerbread “icing” lines, windows, doors, hearts, dots, swirls, Christmas trees, wreaths or even their names. Note: A white paint marker works best for this part because it mimics the look of icing. You can also encourage your kids to add stickers or patterns to make this step incredibly fun.

For another festive recycled craft, check out my easy Toilet paper roll reindeer craft for kids here.

Step 4: Assemble Your Village

Once your houses are decorated, it’s time to turn them into a garland. Lay out the houses on the table and tape them together, side by side, in a straight line.

Step 5: Hang Up Your Garland

Find a cosy spot in your home and hang up your gingerbread village, and just like that, you’ve made your own DIY Christmas decor.

Tip: Pair it with other easy crafts, like paper snowflakes or paper Christmas trees, because the truth is that kids love seeing all their creations displayed together. I know this because my kids were super stoked to see theirs hanging on the wall.

If you make this craft, tag me on Instagram at @3craftmama. It would mean a lot to me! And don’t forget to check out other holiday crafts and printables on 3craftmama.com.