Hamsa Wall Hanging
Magic charms such as the hamsa are based on ancient cultural traditions. Create a replica of this amulet, which has its roots in both Judaism and Islam.
1. Research the meaning of a hamsa and find pictures of this amulet. A hamsa, or Middle Eastern hand-shaped amulet is supposed to give positive energy, happiness, riches, and health to its owner. It is a common symbol in both Islam and Judaism.
2. To make a replica of this traditional amulet, draw a large hand shape on construction paper using Crayola® Colored Pencils. Use your imagination to decorate your hamsa with authentic, creative designs representing Islam and/or Judaism using Crayola Gel Markers and Crayola Glitter Glue. Dry.
3. Attach craft gems to the amulet with Crayola School Glue. Dry.
4. Cut out your hamsa with Crayola Scissors. Trace the hamsa on thin cardboard and cut it out. Glue the cardboard to the back of your hamsa. Dry.
5. Punch two holes near the top of your wall hanging. Run ribbon or yarn through the holes and tie to form a loop for hanging.
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.
Glitter Glue—
WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD—Small parts. Not for children under 3 years. Not for use on skin.
Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.
String-Like Materials—Includes string, raffia, lacing, yarn, ribbon, and other similar material. Children 3 years and younger should not be given any string-like material that is longer than 12 inches. Close adult supervision is essential whenever children use string-like material. When crafts are to be worn around the necks of children 8 years and younger, attach the ends of the “string-like material” with clear adhesive tape, which allows easy release of the bond if the craft becomes entangled or caught on equipment. For children older than 8 years, the ends of the “string-like material” may be tied and knotted.
- Study examples of hamsas and appropriate symbolism. Offer assistance to students with special needs to draw and cut out the hand and cardboard backing.
- Create a small hamsa in the form of a necklace, key chain, or pin using Crayola Model Magic.
- Identify other articles which symbolize a wearer's faith or spirituality. Create replicas using Crayola Model Magic.
- Research superstitions and what people do in various cultures to counteract them. For example, it is believed that if you spill salt and then throw some over your left shoulder, you will be lucky.
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