Easy Handprint Valentine's Day Card for Kids

Updated at: 09/05/2025

Valentine's Day is a time for expressing love and affection, and what better way for little ones to share their feelings than with a handmade card? Forget expensive store-bought options; this year, let your children create adorable and personalized Valentine's Day cards using their own handprints! This simple craft project is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, requiring minimal materials and offering maximum cuteness. It's a fun and engaging activity that will not only create cherished keepsakes but also strengthen those important fine motor skills.

These easy handprint Valentine's Day cards are a fantastic way to involve children in the festive spirit while fostering creativity. The process is surprisingly straightforward and requires only a few everyday supplies you likely already have at home. Ready to get started on creating these heartwarming masterpieces? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Construction paper (pink or red and another color)
  • Scissors
  • Crayons or markers
  • Glue
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise young children closely when using paint or other craft supplies to prevent ingestion or accidental spills.
  • Use non-toxic, washable paints and inks specifically designed for children's crafts.
  • Ensure the work surface is covered with a protective layer (newspaper or tablecloth) to avoid staining.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Paper

    • Fold two sheets of construction paper in half. One sheet for each child.
    Fold two sheets of construction paper in half. One sheet for each child.
    Prepare the Paper

  2. Trace Handprints

    • Place a child's hand on the folded paper, with the thumb and index finger touching in the middle to form a heart shape. Trace around the hand.
    • Repeat step 2 with the other child and paper.
    Repeat step 2 with the other child and paper.Repeat step 2 with the other child and paper.
    Trace Handprints

  3. Cut Out Handprints

    • Cut out the traced handprint shapes.
    Cut out the traced handprint shapes.
    Cut Out Handprints

  4. Assemble the Cards

    • Open the folded paper to reveal the heart shape. Glue the handprint to the inside of one card.
    • Repeat Step 5 with the other card.
    Repeat Step 5 with the other card.Repeat Step 5 with the other card.
    Assemble the Cards

  5. Decorate and Personalize

    • Decorate the cards. Write a message (e.g., "I love you," recipient's name).
    Decorate the cards. Write a message (e.g., "I love you," recipient's name).
    Decorate and Personalize

Read more: DIY Toilet Paper Roll Rockets: A Fun and Easy Craft Project

Tips

  • Use Valentine's Day colors like pink or red.
  • Ensure the child's thumb and index finger touch in the middle to create a proper heart shape.
  • Younger children may need assistance with cutting and gluing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using too much paint

Reason: Excessive paint can lead to smudged handprints and a messy, uneven look.
Solution: Use a small amount of paint and let the handprint dry completely before making another.

2. Not letting the paint dry completely before adding details

Reason: Adding details like markers or glitter before the paint is dry will cause smudging and ruin the final look.
Solution: Allow the handprints to dry thoroughly before adding any extra decorations.

FAQs

What kind of paint works best for handprint Valentine's Day cards?
Tempera paint or washable kids' paint are ideal choices. They are bright, easy to clean up, and less likely to stain clothing than other types of paint.
What if my child's handprint isn't perfect? Will it still look good?
Absolutely! The charm of these cards lies in their handmade, imperfect nature. Don't worry about making it perfect; embrace the unique, childlike quality of the handprint.