Create fancy or funky hand fans with your kids in this easy and fun project. You can make these fans using decorative paper – like scrapbooking paper or gift wrap- and finishing them off with a silk tassel, ribbons, or a metal charm.
Here’s one of our finished fans:
We made a variety of fans, some big enough for my girls to use and some small enough to fit into the hands of their American Girl dolls.
What you will need to make a fancy paper fan:
- Decorative paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Glitter (optional0
- Ribbon (optional)
- Tassel or charm
- Stapler
How to make the hand fan:
- Cut out one piece of paper measuring 20 x 10 inches (approximately).
- Fold the paper with the shortest edge in front of you. Make folds even (approx. 1 inch) to create a pleated effect. Rub each fold flat.
- Add Glitter (this step is optional). Create a swirling pattern across the top of the paper and scatter glitter on top. Allow glue to dry.
- Pinch the bottom of your fan and add a staple to secure it. If you are using a tassel or charm, secure it with a second staple. Trim the bottom of the fan with glue, then cover with ribbon.
Share the History of the Hand Fan
Whenever we do an art project, i try to share with my girls the history behind what we are creating or connect it to a topic we’ve recently studied.
Folding hand fans are a perfect fit if you are studying Japanese history. The earliest representation of the folding hand fan is in the hands of Japanese god of happiness. The folding hand fan was invented in Japan in 8th century.
To learn more about the history of fans and the various styles that have changed it over hundreds of years, see Victoriana.com .
Links to More resources about Japan, just for kids:
- Time for Kids – Japan Time Line
- Kids Past – Japanese History
- Basic Phrases in Japanese
This post is part of my 5 Days of Summer Homeschool Art Projects Series. Check back every day this week for a new art project! Click here to see the entire list.
