During Kwanzaa, families decorate their homes with beautiful woven, straw mats called mkeka. An ear of corn, called muhindi, is set on the mat for every child in the family, as well as other fruits and vegetables of the harvest. The kinara, seven candles in a holder, is displayed to represent the 7 principles of Kwanzaa, which are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. This reproduction of the traditional woven Kwanzaa mat is easy to make with Crayola® Color Wonder™. Children celebrate the rich heritage and culture of Africa while expressing their creative gifts.
Designed by Crayola®
Step: 1
Fold a sheet of black construction paper in half lengthwise. Make about eight evenly spaced cuts along the fold, cutting almost to the edge but leaving about a 1 1/2-inch border. Open flat.
Step: 2
Cut a sheet of Color Wonder paper into strips about the same width as the cuts made in the black construction paper.
Step: 3
Weave the strips through the slits in the black paper, alternating starting over and then under.
Step: 4
Glue the ends of the paper strips to the black paper mat.
Step: 5
Using red and green markers, color the strips so that there are alternating colored squares, as shown. Note: Kwanzaa colors are black, red, and green.
Step: 6
Use Twistables crayons to decorate around the edge of the mat with Kwanzaa symbols such as the seven candles, harvest foods, and beautiful decorative patterns.
Use the photo as a guide and follow manufacturer's instructions for all products used.
The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Adult supervision is recommended with all children.
During Kwanzaa, families decorate their homes with beautiful woven, straw mats called mkeka. An ear of corn, called muhindi, is set on the mat for every child in the family, as well as other fruits and vegetables of the harvest. The kinara, seven candles in a holder, is displayed to represent the 7 principles of Kwanzaa, which are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. This reproduction of the traditional woven Kwanzaa mat is easy to make with Crayola® Color Wonder™. Children celebrate the rich heritage and culture of Africa while expressing their creative gifts.Craft Time: 30-60 minutes