Pipe cleaner Mistletoe

DIY Mistletoe Craft with Pipe Cleaners & Red Beads

Looking for a simple, festive craft that feels a little magical and a lot cozy? This DIY mistletoe made from pipe cleaners and red beads is perfect for kids, adults, classrooms, or a relaxed afternoon craft session. No glue guns, no mess,just twist, thread, and hang!

This handmade mistletoe is great for doorways, gift toppers, ornaments, or even a whimsical holiday garland.

Materials You’ll Need

• Green pipe cleaners (5 per mistletoe bunch)
• Red pipe cleaners (2 per bunch)
• Red beads. I used wood ones. Makes sure the hole in the bead is large enough to fit the pipe cleaner through.
• Scissors
• String, ribbon, or twine (for hanging)

Optional extras:

• White or clear beads for added sparkle
• A small bell or bow
• Glitter pipe cleaners for extra holiday flair

Step-by-Step Instructions

1.Create the Leaves

Take one green pipe cleaner and make a loop at the bottom about 1 inch. Twist it and press it closed so there is no gap in the leaf. Fluff it up a bit.

2. Add the berries

Thread on a red bead and then continue making leaves up the pipe cleaner. Add one or two more leaves and berries. Repeat for 5 more pipe cleaners varying the amount of leaves and berries on each one.

3. Assemble the Mistletoe

Gather your berry stem and leaf shapes together at the twisted ends.
Twist all the pipe cleaner ends tightly together to form the base of the mistletoe bunch.

4. Shape & Fluff

Gently bend and curve the leaves outward so they fan around the berries.
Adjust the bead cluster so it sits front and center.

5. Add the bow

Twist a red pipe cleaner around the top of the mistletoe and make two loops to create the bow shape. Trim the excess if needed.

Creative Variations

• Mini Mistletoe: Use fewer beads and shorter pipe cleaners for gift tags or ornaments
• Sparkle Version: Mix in glitter pipe cleaners or metallic beads
• Garland Style: Make several bunches and string them together
• Kid-Friendly Twist: Let kids choose bead colors and leaf shapes—there’s no wrong way!

Where to Hang Your Mistletoe

• Doorways and arches
• Above a mirror
• On a holiday wreath
• Tied onto wrapped gifts
• As a playful classroom or library decoration

This pipe cleaner mistletoe is quick to make, endlessly customizable, and full of handmade charm. Best of all, it’s sturdy enough to reuse year after year—so the tradition (and the kisses) can continue.

Happy crafting and happy holidays! ✨🌿