Family Danish Heart Baskets Workshop

A beloved part of the holiday season in Nordic countries, Danish Hearts or julehjerter (YOU-luh-YAIR-duh) in Danish, are woven from paper to make a heart-shaped basket that is traditionally filled with candy and hung on the Christmas tree. Kids all over Nordic countries look forward to getting the go-ahead to raid the baskets for treats before the tree is taken down for the season. 

The oldest known Christmas heart was made in the 1860s by one of the best-known Danes, the children’s book author Hans Christian Andersen, who was also known for his cut paper illustrations. His original woven heart is on display at the Hans Christian Andersen House in Odense, Denmark. 

From the early twentieth century onwards, northern European newspapers and magazines have published new Christmas heart basket designs and instructions each year, and the craft is taught from kindergarten in Denmark.

Cut paper crafting remains a beloved holiday tradition, a big part of Nordic identity, and essential to the Danish concept of hygge. “Klippe klistre” or paper-cutting parties, are common in Denmark, where guests relax, craft, and enjoy gløgg (mulled wine) and treats like æbleskiver (spherical pancakes, pronounced ABE-luh-ski-wuh).

In this workshop, guests will be given step-by-step instruction on how to turn simple paper into beautiful, intricate woven baskets in all different colors, sizes, and types of paper. All materials and instruction will be provided to make as many Danish heart baskets as you’d like during the workshop, with instructions to continue creating at home. Once you learn, you won’t want to stop!

This is a multi-generational activity perfect for the whole family! An adult guardian is required for children under the age of 18. Adult guardians do not have to purchase a ticket if they only plan to assist their children in the craft. Adults who plan to make their own craft are required to purchase a ticket.

Cost

Adult Members: $25

Adult General Admission: $30

All Youths (12 and under): $15

Arts for All: $5

Tickets are limited to two people per Oregon Trail card. Please be prepared to show Oregon Trail card at the door. Please note, all sales are final