This week, we embraced the magic of Yule with an enchanting art class that combined folklore, creativity, and a bit of glittery chaos. Here’s how we welcomed the season of light and renewal:
1. Gathering Magical Materials from the Forest
Before class, I ventured into the garden and nearby woods to gather bundles of oak, willow, and sycamore sticks. Each tree carries its own special magic:
- Oak: Sacred to ancient Druids, it represents strength, endurance, and protection—a steadfast guide through the darkest days of Yule.
- Willow: Linked to the moon and water, it embodies regrowth, intuition, and healing, making it a favorite for wands and rituals.
- Sycamore: Known for its seeds that “carry wishes to the universe,” it symbolizes transformation and bridging worlds—perfect for this season of renewal.
These sticks, brimming with meaning, were the foundation for our Yule-inspired creations.
2. Starting with the Magic of Yule
We opened the class by reading The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper, beautifully illustrated by Carson Ellis. This poetic tale about the turning of the year set the tone, helping the children connect with Yule traditions: evergreen trees, fairy lights, and the celebration of light returning to the earth during the darkest days.
The kids were amazed to learn how these ancient rituals—honoring nature and the cycles of life—still influence the ways we celebrate today.
3. Night Sky Potion: Swirling Northern Lights
Our first craft brought the magic of the Yule night sky to life. Using milk, food coloring, and a little dish soap, we created swirling patterns that resembled the northern lights.
Instructions:
- Pour milk into a shallow dish and add drops of food coloring.
- Dip a cotton swab into dish soap and touch it to the milk. Watch as the colors dance and swirl!
- Look closely—what shapes or symbols can you see?
The kids’ imaginations ran wild! Some spotted constellations, others saw dogs, monsters, and even swamps. It was a magical moment of connection to the skies above, just as our ancestors might have done.
4. Honoring the Evergreen: Ornaments and Gifts
Next, we paid tribute to the evergreen, a symbol of life and endurance in winter. Using beads, pipe cleaners, and other materials, the children crafted ornaments and small gifts.
The results were delightfully varied—some chaotic, some simple, but all heartfelt. These creations were a wonderful way to celebrate the giving spirit of the season.
5. Crafting Yule Stars
Our final project was the centerpiece of the class: crafting Yule stars from the magical sticks we’d gathered.
Instructions:
- Use five sticks to create a star shape, binding the ends with string or twine.
- Decorate with ribbons, beads, and of course, glitter!
- Discuss the meaning of the star’s five points, representing balance, harmony, and connection to the elements: earth, air, fire, water, and spirit.
The stars came out perfectly imperfect—some a bit wonky, but no less magical. A few children added bows or extra sparkle to “fix” their stars, which only made them more charming.
The Joy of Yule
As we wrapped up, the room was filled with stars, glitter, and a deep sense of connection to the season. From swirling night skies to handmade Yule stars, the children left with a greater appreciation for the magic of light and nature during this time of renewal.
At Moonbeams and Moss, we believe every celebration should end with sparkle—and this class was no exception. The glitter explosion was the perfect way to honor the beauty, chaos, and joy of Yule!
