One of the presents under the tree has grown feet. And a face. And a suspiciously familiar red hat! 🎁
The tag says “Do not shake!” We think this particular gift would prefer to be left beside the other parcels until breakfast.
This gift-box elf idea turns him into the present. Our picture shows a homemade cardboard costume fitted around Tom’s elf; the bought felt version is an optional shortcut.
What you’ll need:
- One official Elf on the Shelf doll (paid link)
- Optional: The official Elf Mates Gift Box Costume (paid link) – sold for Elf Mates, so check its measurements before buying for a Scout Elf
- A small cardboard carton if you are making the pictured version
- Red wrapping paper, green ribbon or paper strips, and tape
- Paper for a “Do not shake!” tag
- A couple of wrapped parcels already under the tree
Setup:
For the homemade version, choose a small empty carton that fits loosely around the elf’s body. An adult can cut a generous opening at the top, two mitten openings at the sides and two low openings for his legs. Leave the back open while fitting it, then tape the box closed without sticking tape to the doll.
Wrap the carton in red paper and add green ribbon or paper strips, keeping all the openings clear. Sit the elf low on the floor inside the box, with his bottom supported by folded cloth and both legs extending forward. Leave his face and collar visible. Put him beside the other presents and add the tag.
If the bought felt costume fits your doll, dress him in that instead and use the same seated setup. The children can spot which present is trying rather badly to blend in.
Make it cheaply:
Use an old tea box or other small carton, offcuts of wrapping paper and a bow saved from last Christmas. Coloured pencil and drawn ribbon work too. The deliberately homemade disguise is part of the joke; it does not need perfect wrapping.
Find more Christmas elf ideas for the days before Christmas.
