Pinecones tend to fall in the late fall and early winter months and are often used to make beautiful centerpieces, wreathes, and ornaments for the holidays. They have a beautiful, rustic look to them, and children love collecting them during neighborhood walks. If you’re looking for pinecone crafts and experiments you can do with your kids and/or students, there are tons of cool ideas you can try, and we’re excited to share our favorites with you below!
How to Clean Pinecones
While you don’t have to clean your pinecones before you start crafting and doing experiments with them, I highly recommend it as they tend to carry dirt, debris, and small insects inside of them. It’s really easy to clean pinecones, but you’ll want to make sure you factor this into your project plans as the process does take a bit of time.
Follow these 5 simple steps to clean your pinecones quickly and effectively!
- Remove dirty and debris from pinecones with a small brush
- Soak pinecones in a large bowl/bucket of water mixed with 1 cup of vinegar
- Remove pinecones from water and vinegar mixture, place on a dry towel, and leave to air dry for a few hours
- Preheat oven to 200-250 degrees and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper
- Place dry pinecones on cookie sheet and bake for 60 minutes, turning at least once
*Remember that oven temperatures can vary, so pay close attention to ensure your pinecones don’t overcook!
15 Pinecone Crafts for Kids
Pinecone Farm Animals | Manda Panda Projects
DIY Scented Pinecones | Made in a Pinch
Halloween Pinecone Mummy | Manda Panda Projects
DIY Snow Covered Pinecones | A Pumpkin & A Princess
Pinecone Wreath | The Best Ideas for Kids
Pinecone Winter Owls | Easy Peasy and Fun
Pinecone Reindeers | Fireflies + Mud Pies
Glitter Pinecone Name Cards | De Su Mama
Potted Pinecone Christmas Trees | Crafty Morning
Pinecone Snowman Ornaments | One Little Project
Pinecone Elves | Crafty Morning
Pinecone Roses | Sustain My Craft Habit
Pinecone Easter PEEPS | Manda Panda Projects
DIY Glitter Pinecones | MomDot
Yarn-Wrapped Pinecones | A Pretty Fix
8 Pinecone Experiments for Kids
Why Do Pinecones Open and Close? | Parenting Chaos
Homemade Pinecone Weather Station | Science Sparks
Bubbling Pinecone Science | Frog Snails and Puppy Dog Tails
Pinecone Science | Playdough to Plato
Pinecone Bird Feeders | One Little Project
The Pinecone Experiment | Momma Owl’s Lab
Unlocking the Secrets of the Pinecone | Science Buddies
How to Grow a Pine Tree From a Pinecone | Shared
Whether you’re looking for a fun craft to enjoy with your children on bad weather days, or need a little inspiration for your fall and winter lesson plans, I hope this collection of pinecone crafts and experiments inspires you!