This toddler craft is so easy but the result is a pencil holder that really does look (almost!) like real leather. It’s a beautiful gift and your toddler can proudly claim to have made it themselves.

To start, clean and dry a 15-ounce can. I then showed Veronika how to cover it with strips of masking tape. She loved pressing these down by herself, and I only helped to make sure they overlapped and no metal was showing.

Now it was time to make it look like leather. First she painted it with brown paint, very studiously applying it with her brush. I later added a second coat of paint for a polished look.

Once dry, spray with shellac. (Note: This is a grown-up-only step, and be sure to do so in a well-vented area). I also wrote her name and the date on the bottom.

Veronika is so proud, and this will make a perfect gift for daddy on Christmas morning!