The Dragon has always been a powerful symbol of prosperity, power and protection.
In this auspicious Year of the Dragon, decorate your house with plenty of dragon-themed decorations so you and your family can enjoy the blessings of the dragon.
And what better way to do that than by making DIY dragon crafts with your kids for Chinese New Year!
These DIY dragon crafts can be placed around your home as essential Chinese New Year decorations or simply just played with as toys.
You could even give them away as gifts for children at those family gatherings as a gesture of good fortune and well wishes.
At the same time, don’t forget to educate them on the rich and important history about dragons, and why these majestic, legendary creatures are so important in Chinese culture and mythology.
The Majestic Chinese Dragon: A Symbol of Fortune and Power
Also known as ‘loong’ or ‘lung’, the Chinese dragon has long been seen as an ancient and universal symbol of luck, good fortune, and nobility.
Unlike the menacing and fire-breathing dragons often depicted in Western tales, Chinese dragons are benevolent creatures revered throughout time as a bringer of luck and a protector against misfortune.
Unlike the Western dragon reminiscent of winged dinosaurs, the imagery of Chinese dragons is distinct, featuring long, serpentine bodies adorned with sharp claws reminiscent of hawks.
These dragons, however, are not mythical monsters but rather benevolent beings, embodying positive attributes that are celebrated in Chinese folklore and art.
While Western dragons are often depicted as fire-breathing, Chinese dragons reside at the bottom of seas, rivers, and lakes.
According to Chinese mythology, dragons are considered the rulers of these moving bodies of water, and are often prayed to for rain to assist with bringing forth bountiful harvests. This makes their myth much more important among agricultural societies.
Some stories say that the dragon holds all the features of the other Zodiac animals in its form. Possessing the whiskers of the Rat, the face and horns of the Ox, the claws and teeth of the Tiger, the belly of the Rabbit, the body of the Snake, the legs of the Horse, the goatee of the Goat, the wit of the Monkey, the crest of the Rooster, the ears of the Dog, and the snout of the Pig.
Chinese dragons are also often depicted in art holding a flaming pearl. This pearl is laden with symbolic meaning including spiritual energy, wisdom, prosperity, power, immortality, thunder, or the moon.
DIY Dragon Crafts to Do with Your Kids
Paper Dragon
These adorable paper dragons are an easy start to your child’s DIY dragon craft journey.
You can source the materials easily as you only need some coloured paper and a little bit of creativity.
These dragons can both be hung around the house as part of Chinese New Year decorations or even played with as toys
Origami Dragons
Origami doesnt have to be hard. This video provides excellent and easy to follow instructions on how to make origami dragons.
Just like the first video, these origami dragons can both be used as decorations or toys.
Plus they are easily customisable; just switch out different coloured papers for an entire rainbow of paper dragons
Fire-Breathing Paper Roll Dragon
These interactive paper roll dragons are exactly the kind of toy your child needs to truly embrace the spirit of the dragon this Chinese New Year.
While not often associated with fire, these flame-breathing Chinese dragons are easy to make and fun to play with
Another Origami Dragon
While the first origami dragon uses coloured papers, this one uses angpao!
Angpao are special envelopes that hold monetary gifts. So you just know these dragon origamis are dripping with dragon wealth.
They are a bit harder to do, but with a little patience and perseverance, you can definitely make it work.
Dragon Hand Puppet
Another interactive dragon craft that will sure to make your children giggle with delight.
Dragon paper hand puppets!
This one features a dragon with sharp teeth and a tongue of flame erupting from it’s mouth.
While more Western themed than
Accordion Dragons
These accordion dragons are dynamic and can change shape as you move them around.
There are many other versions on YouTube but this is by far the easiest one.
All it takes to make them is some coloured paper, a little creativity and some patience.
Fill Your Home with Dragon Power
Symbolising fortune, power, and nobility, the dragon continues to captivate the imagination and admiration of people worldwide, transcending borders and cultures as a potent symbol of Chinese identity and heritage.
So honour the Chinese dragon this Chinese New Year by filling your home with DIY dragon crafts to herald a year of prosperity, peace, good fortune and blessings for your entire family.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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