Henri’s Scissors: How to Make A Matisse Ornament

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Today, I’m revisiting one of my favorite artists, Henri Matisse. His simple and colorful paper cut-outs always make me feel cheery and happy. With the holidays fast approaching, I thought it would be fun to show you how to make a Matisse kid-made ornament in 4 simple steps.

I’ve partnered with Mama Miss and other amazing bloggers featuring 10 Days of a Kid-Made Christmas Ornaments Inspired by Books. This year, I’ve picked Henri’s Scissors, by Jeanette Winter. Though it’s not a holiday book, it’s the perfect children’s book to introduce your child to Henri Matisse and his paper cut-outs. 

Henri’s Scissors

Henri’s Scissors is a creative picture book written for children ages 5-8 year-old. Jeanette Winter captures Matisse’s spirit with his own quotes, colorful images, and simple narrative. 

In this story, Matisse suffers an illness which leaves him bedridden. Nonetheless, his imagination has no bounds. With his scissors, he cuts large free-form shapes from his bed. During this period, he creates some of his greatest masterpieces. 

How to Make A Matisse Kid-Made Ornament

 Matisse’s paper cut-outs are unique free-form shapes. What’s a free-form shape? Well, it’s a shape you create from your imagination. A free-form shape is also called an organic shape (shapes found in nature). Matisse’s shapes have rounded edges, so he rarely uses triangles, squares, or rectangles. 

Supplies

• Tru Ray Pacon Construction Paper (Acid Free)
• Assorted Wooden Christmas Ornaments (Unpainted)
• Mod Podge
• Foam Brush
• Scissors

Step 1

Trace the wooden ornament onto a piece of construction paper  (color of your choice) and cut it slightly shorter all around. (This will be your base color).

Step 2

Use Mod-Podge and a foam brush to glue down base colored paper onto ornament. Trim any paper edges that hang over.

Step 3

With scissors, cut various free-form shapes. (Look here for ideas). Arrange them on your ornament before you glue them down. Have fun and play around with the composition. Next, glue down the shapes.

Step 4

Let dry and hang on your Christmas Tree or your mantle.

And that’s it! This is a super easy art craft for families to make together. 

Are you looking for more book-themed kid-made ornaments?

 

 

 

Today’s post is part of 10 Days of Christmas Kid-Made Ornaments Inspired by Books. Make sure to check out five more kid-made ornament ideas to inspire your creativity.

 

My Storytime Corner- Star Ornament, inspired by Star Bright

Rhythms of Play- Walnut Shell Manger, inspired by Room for a Little One

Living Life and Learning- Peppa Face, inspired by Peppa Pig

Miss Mae’s Day- Cinnamon Stick Ribbon Christmas Tree, inspired by A Merry Little Christmas Tree