Lantern Handprint Craft Printable

Handprint crafts are one of those things I never mean to keep forever… and then somehow I end up with a little stack of them tucked away in a drawer. I made this lantern version because camping themes always seem to end up full of complicated supplies and big setups, and sometimes kids just want something simple they can sit down and make.

What I liked about this one was how easy it felt. We printed the page, colored the lantern, added paint with a sponge brush, pressed the handprint, and were done. No cutting. No gluing. No trying to keep twenty pieces together while paint dries.

This camping handprint craft works especially well because older kids can spend time coloring and decorating while younger kids still get the fun of making the handprint. When it dries, you end up with something that actually feels worth saving instead of another paper that disappears into the recycling pile.

Why You’ll Love This Camping Handprint Craft

• Quick setup – Print, color, stamp, and dry. No cutting or complicated prep.
• Works for multiple ages – Preschoolers love making the handprint while early elementary kids can spend extra time coloring and decorating.
• Turns into a keepsake – This isn’t just another coloring page—it becomes a little camping memory worth saving.
• Uses simple supplies – You only need the printable, crayons or colored pencils, washable paint, and a sponge brush.
• Easy for home, camp, or classrooms – Great for camping themes, summer camp, quiet afternoons, or rainy days.
• Every finished lantern looks different – Kids can choose colors and make each printable feel personal.

Supplies You’ll Need for this Camping Printable Craft

• Lantern handprint printable
• Crayons or colored pencils
• Orange washable acrylic paint
• Sponge paint brush
• Small plate for paint

How to Make a Camping Handprint Craft

• Print the camping handprint craft template.
• Color the lantern using crayons or colored pencils.

• Pour orange washable acrylic paint onto a plate.
• Use a sponge brush to apply a thin layer of paint to your child’s hand.
• Press the hand inside the lantern.
• Lift straight up and allow the paint to dry.

Quick reminder: Less paint usually gives the cleanest handprint result.

Download Your Lantern Handprint Craft Printable

Grab your Lantern Craft Printable right here.

Tips for Getting the Best Handprint on Your Camping Craft

• Color the lantern before adding a handprint
• Use less paint for cleaner lines.
• Press evenly across the hand.
• Let kids finish coloring before painting.
• Add the child’s name and date before storing.

Try This for Older Kids

If older kids would rather skip the painted handprint, let them color and decorate the flame instead. They can turn the lantern into a glowing campfire scene using crayons or colored pencils.

It changes the printable from more of a keepsake into a coloring activity, but it’s a fun option that gives older kids more room to be creative.

Why This Camping Handprint Craft Works for Preschool and Early Elementary Kids

This printable works well across age groups because younger kids can focus on the handprint while older kids can spend more time coloring and decorating the lantern.

More Camping Activities You’ll Love

If your kids are in a camping mood, here are a few more easy activities to try next:

Summer Crafts – Browse more seasonal summer fun for kids.

Campfire Sensory Printable – A low-mess camping activity that lets kids explore campfire play in a hands-on way.

Teepee Craft for Kids – A fun camping-themed craft that pairs well with outdoor and summer learning themes.

Canoe Craft for Kids – Another easy camping activity that encourages creativity and pretend play.