DIY Handprint Cactus

2 min read September 13, 2026 Amanda Kingloff
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This craft takes "green thumbs" up a notch to the level of "green handprints". Start by tracing your kid's hand (or better yet, let him trace it himself!) onto green craft foam and follow these easy steps to create a blooming cactus that will truly never fade! Add a modern, desert vibe by painting minimal, simple patterns onto the perfect unfinished wood flower pot. We think this DIY cactus craft deserves a solid high-five!

 

Project Time
10 to 20 min
Difficulty
Beginner
Step
1

Have your child trace his or her hand onto green craft foam twice. Cut out both hands.


DIY Handprint Cactus step 1
Step
2

From the extra foam, cut out 7 to 9 little oval shapes, about the size of your thumbprint as cactus arms. Glue these to the back edges of the fingers and thumb on just one of the hand cut-outs.


DIY Handprint Cactus step 2
Step
3

Cut white chenille stems into 1-inch segments. You'll need about 15 to 20 for one hand.


DIY Handprint Cactus step 3
Step
4

Gently poke the chenille stem pieces into the hand, making the spines of the cactus.


DIY Handprint Cactus step 4
Step
5

Glue the other foam hand to the back of the first, covering the little wire points that are sticking out the back. This extra hand also makes the cactus more sturdy.


DIY Handprint Cactus step 5
Step
6

To make the cactus flowers, bunch up a Mini Neon Tissue Paper Square in the middle and twist. Glue the base of the twist of the end of a finger or an added cactus arm.


DIY Handprint Cactus step 6
Step
7

Paint your DIY Unfinished Wood Small Square Pot in the color and design of your choice. Let it dry.

DIY Handprint Cactus step 7
Step
8

Stand your cactus inside the wooden flower pot. Depending on the size of the handprint cactus, you might need to secure it in place with Aleene's Tacky Glue®.


DIY Handprint Cactus step 8
Step
9

Have your kids find a special place to display their handprint cactus and enjoy!

DIY Handprint Cactus step 9

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