Free Elf Yourself Printable Template Guide – Looking for a free Elf Yourself printable template? These DIY Christmas crafts let you turn family photos into cute paper elves. They’re perfect for kids’ activities, classroom bulletin boards, ornaments, or holiday keepsakes in the USA.
The original Elf Yourself (from OfficeMax/Office Depot) started as a popular online and app tool that put faces on dancing elves. Printable versions bring the same fun offline: cut out an elf body, add a photo of a face, and assemble. Many free options include light- and dark-skinned templates, colorable versions, and moveable parts with brads.
Why Make an Elf Yourself Printable Craft?
These templates are simple, low-cost, and family-friendly. Use them for:
- Classroom or homeschool holiday projects
- Personalized Christmas ornaments or gift toppers
- Elf on the Shelf-inspired photo crafts
- Fun photo keepsakes that capture the season
Most require only basic supplies you likely already have: a printer, cardstock or paper, scissors, glue, and optional brads for moveable arms and legs.
How to Make Your Own Elf Yourself Craft?
- Download and print a free Elf Yourself printable template on cardstock for sturdiness.
- Cut out the elf body pieces (hat, torso, arms, legs).
- Print or cut a small photo of a face (about 1–2 inches works well for most templates).
- Glue the photo into the open face area or onto the head.
- Assemble with glue for a flat version or brads/fasteners for a poseable dancing elf.
- Optional: color the black-and-white versions, laminate for durability, or add a ribbon loop to hang as an ornament.
Adult supervision is recommended for cutting and younger kids.
Where to Get Legitimate Free Elf Yourself Printable Templates
Here are reliable, currently available free options (no invented or paid resources claimed as free):
- Teachers Pay Teachers free download: A popular free Elf Yourself craft/ornament template (PDF) with positive reviews for classroom and home use. Download it here: Elf Yourself Craft/Ornament.
- Cut Out + Keep free PDF: A free articulated elf ornament template designed for adding a photo face. The project page includes a direct downloadable PDF: Elf Yourself free printable ornament.
- Frugal Coupon Living free printable set: Light-skinned, dark-skinned, and colorable elf templates available through their free Elf on the Shelf printables library (email signup required for access). Details and signup: How to Elf Yourself + Free Printable Elf Template.
- Simple Everyday Mom free Buddy the Elf-style craft: A free photo elf template (Buddy the Elf inspired) with clear assembly instructions; request via the page form for the PDF. See the guide: Free Printable Buddy The Elf Craft.
For the digital dancing-elf experience that inspired these crafts, the official Elf Yourself app remains available (free to download with optional in-app purchases).
Always print for personal or classroom use only and check each site’s terms. Avoid random image searches that may lead to low-quality or non-free files.
Free Elf Yourself Printable Template Guide
Tips for Best Results
- Use cardstock so the finished elf holds up better.
- School portraits or close-up phone photos work especially well.
- Offer both light- and dark-skinned options for inclusivity when making them with a group.
- Pair the craft with writing prompts like “If I Were an Elf…” for extra educational value.
- Store finished pieces flat or hang them carefully if using brads.
Brief FAQ
Is Elf Yourself still around?
Yes—the original concept lives on via the official app and countless free printable craft versions for paper projects.
Do I need special paper?
Regular printer paper works, but cardstock is recommended for durability, especially if making ornaments.
Can I use these for a classroom?
Yes. Many free Teachers Pay Teachers and blog templates are designed with classrooms in mind (bulletin boards, keepsakes, centers).
Are the linked templates really free?
Yes—the ones listed above are offered as free downloads or free after a simple email signup at the time of research. Always confirm on the destination page.
Grab a free Elf Yourself printable template, print a few photos, and enjoy a quick holiday craft that always gets smiles. Happy crafting!