I’ve been wanting to customize Tzedakah boxes for literally ages, but I actually had problems sourcing materials until I figured it out (more on that in a bit). I finally figured it out and I’m so excited to share with you this fun Tzedakah box craft that can be made using acrylic or wood blanks.

While I’m “theming” this as a High Holidays craft – perfect for Yom Kippur – it’s of course fabulous for any time of year. I sometimes struggle with ideas for year-round Jewish crafts, and this one is a win!

It’s also great for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur crafting, because it fits with the theme of “Teshuvah, Tzedakah, u’Tefillah” – repentance, charity, and prayer cancel the bad decrees.

We focus so much on the repentance and prayer during this season – why not create something charity themed for a change?!

Tips for crafting this Tzedakah Box Craft like a pro!

As I mentioned, I had this planned for a while (and the template designed for years) until I figured it out, so I’ll walk you through the general process.

Which types of boxes can you use?

My original plan was as follows:

1. Take a clear acrylic piggy bank.
2. Tape the template to the inside.
3. Trace it with marker.

I designed a 4.5 x4.5 inch template and bought a coordinating piggy bank… and then discovered that it didn’t open! It was a “break it to use it” type.

So I ordered another one that was advertised as opening and…well, it didn’t really open!

Finally, I ordered another cylindrical one that WOULD open, thinking that I’ll redo the template and… it came cracked. I had to give up. I decided to try working with the one that doesn’t open. It’s a great anti-theft measure if you have it in a public space and you can donate it with the box and crack it open when it’s full.

But I obviously couldn’t put the template inside!

I thought I’d just freeform the design and share the craft. I DO like to make these things fun for non-artists too (and if you ARE artistic, skip the template!) But better something than nothing, right?

Then I decided to try the old-fashioned methods of pattern transfer: carbon paper! I didn’t think it would work on acrylic but guess what? It did! Problem solved.

The truth is, you can totally craft this on wood as well. I KNOW that you can transfer the template to wood using carbon paper. And if you can find wood piggy banks that open, you’ll be able to reuse it more!

This tutorial uses an acrylic box, and everything I’ll be sharing was tested on acrylic. If you’re using wood, test your techniques on a sample project first before doing them with a group. You can also test things on scrap wood.

Transferring the design

While we can’t transfer the design by placing it inside, we did use carbon paper to trace over it and have a framework to work with. It’s not as clear, but it works!

The design is made up of two panels. Those panels connect- on both sides (you may need to adjust the lines slightly). That means that you can repeat the designs continuously on all four sides. I made only two since four wouldn’t photograph nicely.

If you want, you can definitely freeform your own design. I do recommend actually tracing your box and plotting out your design on paper so that you don’t ruin your blank. Meaning, I recommend making your own template if you want to design this on your own.

Coloring your Tzedakah Box Craft (tips and tricks)

To color the box, I used paint markers. I did play around a little with cheaper ones (which I do sometimes use in different projects) but ultimately, the Posca markers won. You’ll want good coverage on this with consistent results, and no “drag” in the dry paint when you go over it, and Poscas just worked the best. I used the 3M size.

While it is a bit pricey (and trust me, I get budget constraints!) I personally justified the purchase by thinking of each marker like a little bottle of paint, because that’s really how I use it. You don’t need a pack of EVERY color either, although having multiple tones does help get a nicer affect.

I haven’t tested it, but I’d imagine that if you have a wood box base, quality will matter less as it’ll absorb in – just make sure it’s good enough that your color doesn’t run.

My favorite way to color this is to fill in blocks of color and then outline it in a darker shade of the same. If you’re more limited in your color palette, fill in the colors and then outline them in black (like I did on the trunk of the palm tree).

Finishing it off

Sealing your Tzedakah box craft will ensure that the paint doesn’t scratch off by mistake. I recommend a spray on acrylic sealer for best results. This is not mandatory if you’re doing a simple take-home craft for summer camp or school, but if you’re looking for more of a “real” final finished result, I HIGHLY recommend sealing it.

Again, it’ll be less prone to scraping off if you use a porous base (such as wood) rather than a smooth one (like acrylic).

How to make this tzedakah box craft

Supplies needed

• Wood or Acrylic piggy bank blank (the template is designed for a 4.5×4.5 inch blank. Print it at scale if needed)
• The template (print it at the end of this post) printed on regular copy paper.
• Carbon paper
• Paper tape (masking, washi, etc)
• A blunt pencil
• High quality paint markers, such as Posca (note – you can use a good quality “knockoff” like Ohuhu if your base is wood).
• Recommended: acrylic spray sealer

Watch the Video:

Watch the full-length video on YouTube if you prefer to learn that way! Or scroll down for written instructions with photos.

Process

1. Cut out your template and a piece of carbon paper to match. Tape it onto your box so that the carbon paper has the dark side facing the box, and the template is over that.

2. Trace over the drawing with a blunt pencil, pressing as you go.

3. Remove your template and carbon paper. You should have a pretty clear tracing of the design.

4. When you do the next side, make sure to connect the design and fill in any missing gaps as needed. You can go all the way around on all four sides like this if you’d like (the tall building on the far right of right most panel connects with that tiny beginning of a building on the left of the left panel -and the clouds connect too).

5. Start coloring! I recommend filling in the small spaces first and then adding a darker outline on top.

6. When you’re done, seal it so that your design doesn’t scratch off. Your tzedakah box craft is complete!

Download the Tzedakah box craft template

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What will you be crafting this tzedakah box craft for? Comment below!

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These printable Jewish prayer bookmarks are perfect for placing in your Machzor or prayer book – after you color them, of course! When you’re done, check out these I’m sorry cards for kids. This post contains affiliate links.

There are so many super sweet prayer bookmarks out there, but in honor of the upcoming High Holidays, I wanted to find quotes from Jewish sources to make a set appropriate for the Jewish woman.

The idea is to color these inspirational bookmarks in advance, to gain a bit of insight into various hashkafically appropriate prayer and teshuvah (repentance) concepts. Then, place them into your machzor (holiday prayer book) to provide inspiration during prayer.

Each prayer bookmark’s quote was researched and properly sourced (including the translations), then the text formatted, sketched, with supporting designs, and then the whole thing was illustrated.

Get the Jewish Prayer Quote Bookmarks

I share a closer look and more details below, but meanwhile, you can get the prayer quote bookmarks in my shop, Etsy, or TpT!

The prayer bookmarks are available for a few bucks in my shop, Etsy, or TpT. Purchasing premium products from me enables me to keep doing what I do, to give more focus to my Jewish blog, creating authentically Jewish resources for homes, educators, and parents.

A few quick “specs” notes: the lines are quite fine, making this a detailed coloring page, ideal for using with small mediums. They are “jumbo” bookmarks, to allow the text to be legible, but are usable with average prayer books.

A closer look at the Prayer Bookmarks

Deciding on these prayer bookmark quotes took a very long time. I wanted to find everything from the source and a good translation. Full credit goes to Sefaria‘s extensive library for the translations.

The prayer bookmarks are as follows:

• “Before they pray, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will respond.” (Isaiah 65:24)
• In the place where penitents stand, even the full-fledged righteous do not stand. (Berachot 34B).

• “True sacrifice to G-d is a contrite spirit; G-d, You will not despise a contrite and crushed heart.” Psalms 51:19
• “You will search for Me and find Me, if only you seek Me wholeheartedly.” Jeremiah 29:13
• “The L-rd is near to all who call Him, to all who call Him with sincerity” Psalms 145:18

• “For your G-d is a compassionate G-d Who will not fail you nor let you perish.” Deuteronomy 4:31
• “Seek the favor of G-d and He will grant you the desires of your heart.” Psalms 37:4
• “Come, let us reach an understanding, says G-d. Be your sins like crimson, they can turn snow white; be they red as dyed wool, they can become like fleece.” Isaiah 1:18

These are sourced primarily from Tanach – including a few from Navi (prophets) and Tehillim (psalms).

Tips for using these color-in printable prayer bookmarks

Coloring tips

These prayer bookmarks have very fine lines. They are what you’d call “complex” coloring, and I do think it’s important that you know this before you start!

I really had teen girls in mind with this, as well as women. It can be relaxing to color and fill in the lines – no shading or artistic skills are needed.

I used this set of gel pens – a top brand and worth investing in if you’re getting your own craft supplies, as they last far longer than the cheap gel pens. If you’re getting this for a one-time group activity, a big pack of cheap pens is your best bet.

Another favorite choice for this is fineliner pens. As with most art supplies, brand DOES matter. Some favorites are Stabilo, Staedtler, and even Crayola’s fineliners are great. Very cheap “knockoff” ones can be dry and aren’t recommended. If you’re doing a one-time activity and don’t need it to last, get a knockoff with a LOT of good reviews.

I highly recommend printing them on cardstock and then laminating – ideally with 5mil laminating pouches to help them last a long time, through lots of prayers!

Using them for the High Holidays

I designed these as a classroom activity – or something individuals can do to prepare – before the High Holidays. Jewish law advises us to refrain from acts of creation on the Sabbath and Holidays, and that includes coloring.

My recommendation is to color these in the days and weeks leading up, to get in the “prayer and repentance zone.”

Then, place them in a few strategic spots in the machzor (holiday prayer book) where you may want that extra boost.

I hope you enjoyed these prayer bookmarks! In case you missed it, you can download them in my shop, Etsy, or TpT. Purchasing premium products from me enables me to keep doing what I do, to give more focus to my Jewish blog, creating authentically Jewish resources for homes, educators, and parents.

The post Machzor Forgiveness & Prayer Bookmarks – Coloring for Adults appeared first on Jewish Moms & Crafters.

Time for the ultimate packet of Tishrei activities with Rosh Hashanah THROUGH sukkot coloring pages and do a dot art pages for your toddlers and preschoolers! When you’re done, check out these fun color-in Rosh Hashanah cards! This post contains affiliate links.

When it comes to high holiday activities for the little ones, keeping it simple is often a win! Today, I’m sharing a bundle of Rosh Hashanah through Sukkot coloring pages that are perfect for toddlers and younger preschool. They are super simple, with easy, recognizable shapes.

You have something for every Tishrei holiday: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Simchat Torah!

And I made them as both coloring pages AND do a dot pages just for fun. These are available as a premium download in my Etsy shop, right here, however, if you want to first learn more about them, just keep scrolling!

The full list of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot Coloring Pages

First, what’s inside? These are the illustrations featured in this Tishrei coloring & do a dot packet, featuring multiple pages for each holiday. Use it all at once, turn it into an activity book, or use them as multiple classroom activities at each holiday.

You have:

1. Pomegranate
2. Apple
3. Honey
4. Shofar
5. Machzor (holiday prayer book)
6. Charity
7. Slippers (traditionally worn on Yom Kippur when leather shoes aren’t worn)
8. Sukkah
9. Lulav
10. Etrog
11. Torah
12. Flag (traditionally held and waved by kids in synagogue on Simchat Torah)

You get the same sequence of pages in four PDF files:

1. Dot art with words
2. Dot art without words
3. Coloring with words
4. Coloring without words.

All words are in Hebrew AND English.

All images are the same on each file with only slight differences to accommodate dot art.

The images are incredibly simple – that is, I made them with as little detail as I can while still allowing them to be fully recognizable. I find that Do a Dot works best with the simplest images.

Three ways to craft these Rosh Hashanah through Sukkot coloring pages

While I originally designed these as Bingo marker pages, I will share with you just how versatile this is!

Super Simple Coloring

Included in your download is a just-coloring version (no dots) for kids who like to color. This is perfect for very young kids – such as babies who are fingerpainting, toddlers who scribble…

For kids who are already actually filling in lines, it may already be too simple – depends on how much detail they like!

Do a Dot / Bingo Markers

The original intention was to make this for Do a Dot markers. My kids love them. We have a collection of the ones that survived from 3 different sets – including the first ones that M had as a toddler.

I do see a difference in quality between the Do a Dot brand and others (for example, Michaels’ Creatology brand) but the knockoffs are still decent. If you’re looking for a long-term high quality investment, go for the original. If it’s too pricey, try a knockoff.

Bingo markers not only feel like “painting” for kids, but they are a fabulous challenge, allowing them to be precise and build that hand-eye coordination.

I made these with 3/4 inch circles. This is slightly smaller than the tip of the Bingo marker, however, I find that the kids never fill in the full circle – and 3/4 inches is the size they usually get so I stick with that (see A, age 3’s, colored example below).

Dot Stickers

Want to hear a cool hack? Dot stickers work on Do a Dot sheets and they are fabulous for pincer grasp and fine motor skill building. And for kids who love stickers.

I used 1/2 inch stickers because I still have a big stash of those but it’ll be so much cooler if you get 3/4 inch stickers since that’s how big the circles are.

Tip: if giving these out to multiple kids, get the ones that have multiple colors on one sheet (instead of separate single color sheets) so that you can simply hand 1-2 sheets to each kid.

More ideas

Since the images are so simple, these Rosh Hashanah through Sukkot coloring pages are so versatile:

• Use as a template for simple crafts – they are designed to be easy shapes to cut and paste.
• Or have kids cut the colored image and paste on a background – it’s great scissors skills practice, once again, with simple shapes. Decorate with other craft supplies (like craft gems, etc.)
• Dot art with alternative brushes – like foam pouncers, pom poms held with clothespins, large cotton swabs…
• Make Pom Pom art by simply gluing pom poms into the circles! Get a big pack of colorful pom poms to help you.
• Kids can make fingerprint art by dabbing their fingers on a washable stamp pad and adding fingerprints to each circle.
• Or, use the coloring version for handprint art – most of them have an area large enough to add a small kid’s hand!

Download the Rosh Hashanah-Sukkot Coloring Pages & Do a Dot

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The holiday of Yom Kippur – the holiest day in the Jewish calendar – is all about repentance and forgiveness. To highlight this, the story of Jonah & the Whale is read.

Today I’m sharing an adorable Jonah & The Whale puppets craft for kids to learn these important messages. This can be crafted in anticipation of Yom Kippur, and enjoyed by the kids on Yom Kippur.

To animate the whale, I made it as a clothespin puppet – a fabulous fine motor skill-builder as well!

About Jonah & The Whale Story

Yonah (Jonah) is sent on a mission by G-d to tell the people of Nineveh to repent – or they’ll be destroyed.

He tries to “run away” by getting on a ship and escaping, but can one really run away from G-d? A terrible storm nearly destroys the ship, but then Jonah is tossed to the mercy of the waters.

A huge fish or whale swallows him, but miraculously he remains alive. He repents and is spit out to go and complete the mission.

Lo and behold, the people of Nineveh repent and are saved.

The lessons of this story is strong. You can’t run away from responsibility – or G-d. Even the most evil can repent – and G-d will forgive. Shouldn’t we forgive those who have wronged us too?

To capture the gist of the story, I illustrated this Jonah & the Whale puppets craft for kids to color (optional), craft, and play out.

Making your Jonah & the Whale puppets

The template includes the ship, Jonah, and the whale. The whale is split in half so that you can turn it into a clothespin puppet. If you don’t want to do the clothespin part, simply glue them both in place on a stick.

The whale is quite large (it does have to swallow Jonah, doesn’t it?!) If you want it to fit a clothespin with more wiggle room, you can print the project at a proportion of the final size. The size that I designed it in is the maximum (it’s always easier to make it smaller than larger).

It’s also two-sided, again, to give you that option, but I don’t necessarily recommend making the whale that way. One side works, and it’s easier for kids to use.

And finally, I offer two styles of templates for you to choose from:

• Full color – great for quick-assembled DIY toys for the kids or as a teaching tool to visualize the story in the classroom
• Color-in – This is designed for when you want to engage the children more and have them create a strong element of the project. I recommend this version for young kids.

Download the Templates

This is a premium template, available in my Etsy shop. Your purchase gives you a personal and classroom use license. Yes, you can even use it for your shul too, or in a free library event (up to 30 copies). For large institutions or other uses, reach out to me at jewish@momsandcrafters.com.

Your purchase includes both a PDF (to print on a home printer and cut out by hand) and a pre-formatted PNG for Cricut users to Print then Cut.

How to craft Jonah & the Whale puppets

Materials needed

• The puppets, printed on cardstock
• A standard sized clothespin
• A craft stick
• A dowel – you can use another craft stick, however, I recommend a dowel to keep the ship stable
• Glue: Tacky glue is great for this
• Optional: crayons or markers
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Cut out your puppets, by hand or using a cutting machine.

2. Color in each part.

The whale is in two parts.

3. Apply glue to each part of the clothespin. Try to avoid getting any on gap where the top and bottom connect.

Glue them so that they line up properly. Again, make sure that you don’t by mistake glue the whale or the clothespin shut.

4. Glue sticks on the backs of the ship and Jonah. I used a dowel to fully support the ship.

5. If you’d like to, you can glue a second side onto the whale. Little hands will still be able to operate the clothespin between the layers, but it’ll be harder. Make sure to line it up with the other side.

Your Jonah & the Whale puppets craft is complete and ready for you to put on a show!

If you haven’t yet, you can get the printables here:

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