How To Make Christmas Crackers (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Holidays and Traditions
• Christmas
• Christmas Crafts

How to Make Christmas Crackers Download Article Reviewed by Ashley Crawford

Last Updated: May 9, 2025

Download Article

• Making the Cracker
|
• Filling the Cracker
|
• Decorating the Cracker (Optional)
|
• Video
|
• Q&A
|
• Tips
|
• Warnings
|
• Things You'll Need

|Show more |Show less ARTICLE VIDEO X

This article was reviewed by Ashley Crawford. Chef Ashley Crawford is a Private Chef and the Founder of A Taste of Chef Ash. Chef Ashley started in the culinary industry when she was 14. She specializes in Creole and Cajun cuisine but has experience in all culinary topics. She has been featured in ESPN and Sports Illustrated for her culinary work with athletes. This article has been viewed 130,688 times.

Christmas crackers are a popular treat during the Christmas holiday season. When December rolls around, many stores start selling pre-filled Christmas crackers for you to distribute at your Christmas party, but why buy them when you can make your own? Not only is it lots of fun, but you get to choose how they look, and what they are filled with. This will allow you to cater to your party's theme and your guests' tastes and interests.

The next Christmas is Friday, December 25, 2026. There are 352 days left!

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Making the Cracker

Download Article

1. 1 Cut a piece of paper into an 8 inch (20.3 cm) by 12 inch (30.5 cm) rectangle.[1] You can use gift wrap, construction paper, butcher paper, scrapbooking paper, or even tissue paper.
   • Hide the contents if you use tissue paper. Stack 2 to 3 sheets so the contents will stay invisible.
   • The paper does not have to be Christmas themed. It can be winter themed instead. Blue, white, and silver stripes are perfect for a Winter Wonderland party. You can use a summer theme if December is a summer month where you live.
   • Match the paper to your table settings. Your table will be more festive if the crackers match the napkins, plates, candles, decorations, etc.
2. 2 Orient your paper landscape style. Start with one of the long edges facing you. If your paper has one side patterned and blank on the other (such as scrapbooking paper or gift wrap), make sure that the blank side faces up. Advertisement
3. 3 Attach a cracker snap to the top of the paper. This will make your Christmas cracker pop like store bought ones. Place a long strip of double-sided tape at 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the top edge of the paper, .[2] Press the cracker snap onto the tape. Make sure that it is centered. Both ends of the cracker snap need to be taped down.
   • Many craft and dollar stores/pound shops etc sell cracker snaps during the holiday season. You can also find them available online.
4. 4 Lay a strip of double-sided tape along the top edge of your paper. Make sure that the tape goes from edge-to-edge to seal your Christmas cracker shut.
   • If you added a cracker snap, the tape will be just above it.
5. 5 Use a strip of double sided tape to attach an empty toilet paper tube to the bottom center of your paper. You should have about 4 inch (10.2 cm) on either side of the toilet paper tube.[3] If you can't find any toilet paper tubes, cut an empty paper towel tube in half. You can also get an empty gift wrap tube, and cut 4 inch (10.2 cm)) segments.
6. 6 Make the cracker body. Roll the toilet paper tube as evenly and as tightly as you can towards the top of the paper to keep the paper smooth.[4] When you get to the top edge, run your finger along the tape to seal it.
7. 7 Tie one of the end of the Christmas cracker shut. Get as close to the toilet paper tube as possible. (See the Tips section) [5] Do not tie the other end shut yet. You can use anything to tie the cracker shut. Choose something that matches your paper or your theme for pizzaz. For example:
   • For something fancy or elegant, use a piece of satin, sheer, or curling ribbon.
   • For something cozy or rustic looking, use baker's twine, raffia, jute, hemp cord, or yarn.
Advertisement

Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Filling the Cracker

Download Article

1. 1 Fill the Christmas cracker with your choice of goodies. Tie it shut with a matching piece of ribbon or string. You do not have to fill your Christmas cracker with everything listed in this section. Instead, use the ideas for inspiration. Choose items that suit your budget, party theme and guest needs.
2. 2 Add a traditional paper crown. One of the most popular items is the paper crown. It is great for both adults and children. Make your own out of gold poster paper or from butcher paper. Here's how you do it:[6]
   • Measure your head and add 2 inch (5.1 cm).
   • Cut a 2.5 inch (6.4 cm) strip of paper according to that measurement.
   • Cut a zigzag pattern into one of the long edges.
   • Overlap the two narrow ends by 1 inch (2.5 cm) and secure them with a piece of double sided tape.
   • Roll up the crown into a tube, then tie it up with a piece of string. This allows the crown to fit inside your cracker.
3. 3 Add Christmas greetings, facts, and jokes. You can find lots of Christmas themed facts and jokes online or make up your own. Write or print your greetings, facts, and jokes on little slips of paper. Step it up with decorations of Christmas themed stickers, stamps, or simple illustrations.[7] Washi tape around the borders can make a nice touch. Here are some examples of messages you can include:
   • A fortune
   • A riddle
   • A blessing or a spiritual message
   • A recipe
4. 4 Add some small gifts. You can find lots of small items that can fit inside a Christmas cracker in the goodie bag section of a party store. The dollar section of an arts and crafts store also have some suitable items. Many stores have a stocking stuffer section during the holiday season. Browse through these sections and pick out items to stuff your crackers. Here are ideas to get you started:
   • Candies or chocolates
   • Costume jewelry, such as "pearl" necklaces and clip-on earrings
   • Mini manicure kits and mini bottles of nail polish
   • Mini stationery items: notepads, pens, novelty erasers, etc.
   • Plastic figurines, toy cars, etc.
   • Small toys: spinning top, dice, hopping frog, etc.
   • Vouchers or gift cards for music, cafes, restaurants, etc.
5. 5 Add an element of surprise with confetti or glitter. Keep in mind that this can get messy. Only do this if you don't mind cleaning up afterwards. To avoid getting bits of paper or glitter into food, open confetti or glitter filled crackers after the meal is over .
6. 6 Tuck in a few coins or paper bills. Keep the amounts small and equal in value for your guests. It wouldn't be fair if one guest got a lot of money while another did not. Choose coins that are shiny and clean and paper money that is crisp.
   • Do not add money if you plan on including candy, even if the candy is wrapped.
7. 7 Keep your gifts together by packaging them. This will give your guests something to unwrap as well as preventing a mess. A small, organza bag works well for a fancier Christmas cracker.[8] Matching tissue paper works for a simpler Christmas cracker.[9]
Advertisement

Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Decorating the Cracker (Optional)

Download Article

1. 1 Add decorations to your Christmas Cracker. Once you have tied your Christmas cracker shut, you are essentially done. You do not have to add "all" the decorations listed in this section. Instead, choose the ideas that appeal the most to you.
2. 2 Cut your ribbons ends at an angle for a nice finish.[10] Seal the ends with fray check or clear nail polish to prevent fraying. This will give your crackers that final elegant touch and make them look more professional.
   • If you use curling ribbon, consider curling the ends by running them between your finger and the end of a pair of scissors.
3. 3 Add contrast with another strip of paper. Cut a strip of contrasting paper 4 inch (10.2 cm) and wrap it around the middle of your Christmas cracker. Seal the edge with a strip of double-sided tape.[11]
4. 4 Add a pretty label to the front of your Christmas cracker. This can be as simple as a Christmas sticker with a Christmas greeting. If this is for a party, use a "To/From" style label and write the person's name on it. Use this as a place setting for your dinner party in place of the standard nametag.
5. 5 Decorate the ends of the cracker with washi tape or stick on rhinestones. Get fancy scissors and cut a notched or scalloped edge into the paper.
6. 6 Add mini floral picks to your cracker. Many craft stores sell mini pine branches, holly leaves, and red berries for decorating gifts and wreaths. Even though they are small to begin with, cut them down further so they are proportionate to your Christmas cracker. With hot glue or clear tape, attach them to the body of the cracker or to the ends where the ties are.
   • For blue, white and silver Winter Wonderland themed crackers, add mini sparkly snowflake ornaments.
7. 7 Use stamps to make plain paper crackers look more interesting. An ink pad and a Christmas-themed rubber stamp can add a touch of old time design to a brown butcher paper cracker. It will make the paper more interesting, but keeps it simple enough to not detract from that cozy, rustic feel.
8. 8 Decorate the tube with glitter glue. This works great on construction paper. If you used gift wrap or patterned scrapbook paper, use the original design as a guide. Glitter glue can take time to dry, so do this the night before the party.
   • You can also decorate with puffy paint instead.
9. 9 Set the table with your crackers. The cracker is a great way to bring people together. After all, you need two people to pull apart the cracker snap to celebrate the moment!
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question How does the Christmas cracker open or crack when I pull? HumanBeing Top Answerer The cracker snap makes the crack. The paper you have used should tear when pulled the crackers is pulled by two people, one holding each end. The contents spill out, usually claimed by whoever has the biggest part of the cracker. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 6
• Question How do I open the cracker? Community Answer If you added a cracker snap, you'll need to grab each end of the cracker, and pull hard. If you did not add a cracker snap, you and simply tear off each end, and tip the goodies out. You can also simply untie the ribbon or string, twist the paper open, and tip the prizes out. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 7
• Question How do I get ideas for my cracker snap? Community Answer If you are talking about decorations, take a look at your table setting. You can also focus on popular Christmas themes, such as: Winder Wonderland, Cozy Cottage, or Victorian Christmas. If you are talking about the fillings, think about what your guests might like. You can also brows through the goodie bag section of your party store. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 3

See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

• Keep your guests in mind. If your guests are children, include things like toys and candy. For adults, include items like riddles, jokes, mini stationery/manicure kits, and so forth. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Small trinkets can be found in dollar stores, toy stores, stationery stores, and even dispensing machines at the front of many stores. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Cracker snaps, are opened by tugging firmly at each end. If you did not use cracker snaps, you can simply tear the ends off, or untie the ribbons. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Show More Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

• Warn your guests ahead of time if you included cracker snaps. They may not expect the loud popping noise, and may get startled. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• To prevent choking hazards, do not give these to children under the age of 3. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1

Advertisement

Things You'll Need

• Empty toilet paper tube
• Ruler
• Pen or pencil
• Scissors
• Double sided tape
• Christmas themed paper
• Ribbon or string
• Filling items (candy, small toys, etc.)

You Might Also Like

How toMake a Glitter Bomb How toMake Confetti How toMake Lucky Paper Stars How toMake a Paper Christmas Tree How to Wrap a Present Like a Pro How toMake a Party Hat How toMake a King's Crown How toWrap with Tissue Paper How toMake a Paper Garland How toMake Napkin Rings How toMake a Paper Chain How toMake a Paper Tree for Kids How toMake Christmas Cards How toMake a Paper Bow Advertisement

References

1. ↑ https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/how-to-make-christmas-crackers/
2. ↑ https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/how-to-make-christmas-crackers/
3. ↑ https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/how-to-make-christmas-crackers/
4. ↑ https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/how-to-make-christmas-crackers/
5. ↑ http://ohhappyday.com/2012/11/christmas-crackers-diy/
6. ↑ https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/how-to-make-christmas-crackers/
7. ↑ http://festivalgrove.com/?p=724
8. ↑ http://festivalgrove.com/?p=724
9. ↑ https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/how-to-make-christmas-crackers/

More References (2)

10. ↑ https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/how-to-make-christmas-crackers/
11. ↑ http://festivalgrove.com/?p=724

About This Article

Reviewed by: Ashley Crawford Private Chef This article was reviewed by Ashley Crawford. Chef Ashley Crawford is a Private Chef and the Founder of A Taste of Chef Ash. Chef Ashley started in the culinary industry when she was 14. She specializes in Creole and Cajun cuisine but has experience in all culinary topics. She has been featured in ESPN and Sports Illustrated for her culinary work with athletes. This article has been viewed 130,688 times. 5 votes - 80% Co-authors: 27 Updated: May 9, 2025 Views: 130,688 Categories: Featured Articles | Christmas Crafts In other languages French Indonesian Japanese

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 130,688 times.

Reader Success Stories

• 

  Anonymous

  Dec 4, 2024

  "I was always curious about making a snow globe properly. This article was very helpful and will be a project for..." more

More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Ashley Crawford Private Chef Co-authors: 27 Updated: May 9, 2025 Views: 130,688 80% of readers found this article helpful. 5 votes - 80% Click a star to add your vote

Anonymous

Dec 4, 2024

"I was always curious about making a snow globe properly. This article was very helpful and will be a project for..." more

Juliette L.

Dec 11, 2023

"I love this tutorial. It helped me and my daughter make something for a school project." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

Christmas QuizTake QuizWhat Christmas Gift Should You Get Them?GenerateEmoji TestTake QuizWhat Should I Bake QuizTake QuizBumper Sticker GeneratorGenerateWhat Famous Christmas Song Are You?Analyze Me

You Might Also Like

How toMake a Glitter BombHow toMake ConfettiHow toMake Lucky Paper StarsHow toMake a Paper Christmas Tree

Featured Articles

What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)

Trending Articles

How Many People Had a Crush on You In 2025?What Song Was #1 On My Birthday?What Are My Soulmate's Initials QuizAm I Chopped QuizWhat Generation Do I Really Belong In QuizHow toKiss

Featured Articles

What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithWhat Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?

Featured Articles

How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality Test

Watch Articles

How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen Sink (& Keep It Clean)How to Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick WaysHow toThicken Sauce with FlourHow to Brighten Up White Shirts and Other GarmentsHow to Cook White Rice without a Rice CookerHow to Clean Out the Inside of a Glass Bottle (With or Without a Brush)

Trending Articles

How Will I Die QuizHow toLose Belly Fat in 2 Weeks10+ Scary Phone Numbers to CallWhat Animal Do I Look Like QuizHow Rare Is Your Name?What Gender Should I Have Been Born As Quiz

Quizzes & Games

Finish the Phrase QuizTake QuizWhat Crystal Do I Need QuizTake QuizWhat Animal Would Go On My House Crest QuizTake QuizAm I Funny QuizTake QuizWhat Tarot Card Am I QuizTake QuizThe Paperclip Challenge: Can You Outsmart the Detective?Play

• Categories
• Holidays and Traditions
• Christmas
• Christmas Crafts

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Let's do this! X --828