How to Make an Eggshell Mosaic Snowman

Apr 9, 2011
Melissa Howard

Eggshell Mosaic Snowman - Melissa Howard

Use eggshells and torn paper to make a snowman craft for children.

Many people eat eggs and throw the eggshells into the trash. By throwing away the eggshells, people are missing out on a great craft material. Eggshells can be used for anything from traditional Easter egg crafts to fun mosaics such as this mosaic snowman for kids.

Supplies

Eggshells
Construction paper in a variety of colors
Pencil
Glue

Instructions

Have the children draw an outline of a snowman. Remind them that if they want to add a hat to their snowman later they need to leave enough room at the top of the paper.
Have the children spread some glue inside their drawing. Next, have them take a large bit of eggshell and press it into the glue. (The trick is for them to put the eggshell down with the inside down and the outside up. If they do it this way, then they can press on the eggshell with pencil and it will crack into several pieces and create a mosaic effect of smaller pieces. This saves the children the effort and frustration of trying to fill the entire snowman with tiny pieces). Have them fill the entire drawing in with pieces of eggshell.
Let the snowman dry.
Tear up construction paper for making the scenery (this is a very good activity for the kids – have them tear up the pieces and put them in color sorted piles).
Use the paper to create the ground, a sun, a hat scarf, features, and other details for the snowman.

Eggshell Safety

It is very important the eggshells be clean. The best way to clean the inside of an eggshell is to run very hot water into it. Then reach in and rub the inside of the shell with your finger. You will feel a skin that lines the shell start to roll in your finger. Pull out the entire lining of the shell.
If you are still concerned about sanitation and bacteria, soak the eggshells in a bleach solution for a couple of minutes. Rinse the shells and let them dry before crafting with them.

Ideas and Suggestions

It is important that a fair amount of glue is used so that it will hold the eggshell in place. However, too much glue will run over the lines of their drawing.
Have the kids grind up a bunch of eggshell by putting it into a plastic bag and using a rolling pin to crush it. Crush it until it is in small pieces but not powdery. The finely ground eggshell can be used like glitter to create the snowy ground.