Hamsa Wall Hanging

Why

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.


Steps

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 white 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.


Safety Guidelines

Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project.

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.

Adaptations

  • 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.

    Related Lesson Plans

Lesson Plans

 

Supplies

crayola supplies
  • Colored Pencils
  • Gel Markers
  • No-Run School Glue
  • Glitter Glue
  • Pointed Tip Scissors
household supplies
  • hole punch
  • ribbon
  • cardboard
  • decorative craft items

Overview

grades

  • Grades 7 to 12
  • Special Needs
  • Grades 4 to 6

subjects

  • Language Arts
  • Social Studies
  • Visual Arts

time

  • 30 to 60 minutes
  • Multiple Sessions

benefits

  • Students research information about the hamsa, which is a Middle Eastern hand-shaped amulet.

  • Students gather information about the Muslim faith and the Jewish faith.

  • Students create and decorate a hamsa using traditional symbols.

Cirriculum

Research Canada Standards
Research UK Standards
Research U.S. Standards