In this Elf on the Shelf Toilet Paper Roll idea, toy friends push Elf over the counter top in an easy Elf on the Shelf set up. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

We are back, so is the Elf on the Shelf! If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you a new Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily (in the months of November and December) for the past seven years. You can view our Elf on the Shelf Master List for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done.

For many of these Elf on the Shelf ideas, make sure you have an elf that can bend. You can do that easily with our Bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.  You also can shop our collection of Elf Printables for ideas to cover the entire season!

Elf on the Shelf Toilet paper Idea

I sense trouble – Elf is about to be pushed over the countertop in this toilet paper drop.

Elf on the Shelf Supplies Needed

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Toilet Paper
• Toys to Plunge Elf

This is consider a Lazy Elf on the Shelf Idea – you know we love those! Less than 5 minutes and using supplies from home.

Put Elf inside the tube of a a toilet paper roll and grab some toys/friends to begin the push over the edge of the counter top.

Also take a look at this full list of Elf on the Shelf Ideas with Toilet Paper.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf on the Shelf Printables.

Elf on the Shelf on Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

We have been doing Elf on the Shelf forever. See our Elf on the Shelf Master List. Pin to Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Take a look at these Hard Elf on the Shelf Hiding Spots and learn how to recover with Elf the Shelf sentences when it was just “too hard.” New funny, original, and creative Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

Sometimes it happens. You The Elf comes up with a hard Elf on the Shelf hiding spot. Often a spot that seemed so obvious can become quite frustrating when your children are scrambling around the house before school trying to find “Where is the Elf on the Shelf?”

Hard Elf on the Shelf Hiding Spots

The Elf on the Shelf might be in a hard hiding space on purpose or by accident. Either way it’s important to meet your child in their challenges when they are struggling to find that darn little red guy.

If this hiding spot was done on purpose, Moms and Dads can consider adding clues leading to the funny Elf doll.  This can be tiny footprints, a row of gump drops, or even pieces of red thread along the ground. This gives your child a few hints.

If this Elf prank was not done on purpose, find the Elf instead of your child. This could be something like accidently sitting on the spot the elf was hidden or pretending you are going to retrieve something and all of a sudden you “found” the Elf on a Shelf. You can also consider helping your child with excuses and answers why the Elf didn’t come back. For example, the North Pole customs line might have been too long to return last night. If you did not help your child find their Elf before venturing off to school, when they are gone add a not to the front door or kitchen counter top giving a bit of a clue where the little Elf might be!

Ideas for Hard Hiding Spots

If you are here for the best Elf on the Shelf hiding ideas, these are hard spots that might be a fun challenge for your older children.

Hard Elf on the Shelf places to hide might include…

• The Freezer

• The Washing Machine

• The Television

• The Christmas Tree

• The Couch

• The Phone

• The Computer

• The Ceiling

• Shrinking Elf on the Shelf

What to do when your Elf hides in an hard spot

So your Elf hid in a difficult hiding spot.  If this is the case for your family Elf, be prepared to recover from these naughty pranks. There are a number of ways to make right the wrong act of service you did when hiding the Elf on the Shelf.

1. Find the elf yourself. Accidently stumble upon this hidden elf.
2. Write a note to the Elf. Let them know “we can’t find you, can you give us a hint?”
3. When your child is out of the room or gone, add some extra clues. This can include gum drop sweets that suddenly appeared leading to the Elf or perhaps a long red thread that traces the path all the way to that little red guy.
4. Move the Elf to a new spot when your kids are gone.
5. Have an Elf write sentences. This is especially important when the Elf on the Shelf needs to ask forgiveness for hiding too hard.
6. In your back pocket, be prepared with a list of possible reasons the Elf didn’t come back or move.

Elf on the Shelf Sentences

Since your Elf has been naughty, it’s time to get the chalk and chalk board and write sentences. A fun way to resolve this terribly hidden spot by the little guy is to write over and over… “ I will not hide too hard again.”

Elf on the Shelf Setup Supplies Needed

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Chalk
• Chalkboard

More Good Elf on the Shelf Hiding Spots

Find the best Elf on the Shelf hiding places. Enjoy these hiding spots for the Scout Elf on the Shelf including in the playroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living room.

If you have questions about Elf on the Shelf hiding spots, w e have answers including a list of hiding places for Elf on the Shelf in every room of the house.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The Elf on the Shelf tradition is a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Favorite Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. Leave a comment here or on Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Download this fun Elf handprint art printable and put together a fun craft for Christmas with your little one. This can be done with an Elf on the Shelf doll or used as an independent Christmas activity for the family. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

Are you looking for a fun activity for the kids. This Christmas printable recognizes the Letter E in the alphabet and also brings forth a character we all know and love – an Elf! Have fun working on Alphabet handprint which can be delivered by your family elf or done as a craft independently of an Elf on the Shelf doll.

How do you make an Elf out of handprints?

It’s simple to create an Elf on the Shelf using your handprint.  Using a paint brush, first paint your child’s hand with paint. Wipe off any excess paint. Placing your hand upside down on paper instantly create an Elf’s torso, legs and arms. Let your handprint art dry and then decorate your elf head, hands and feet.

Handprint Art Elf on the Shelf Idea

Let’s get in the holiday spirit, gather a few supplies and learn how to make this adorable elf with step by step instructions.

Materials

• Tempera Paint
• Paint Brush (one inch brushes are a great size.)
• Printer Paper or Cardstock
• Printer
• Paper Towels
• Optional: Crayons or Colored Pencils
• Optional: The Elf on the Shelf Doll

Instructions

To start this Elf on the Shelf craft, simply print the free Elf handprint art template digital download (see below.)

Lay out your Elf handprint art activity sheet with your Scout Elf on the Shelf. Have your family elf bring it in the morning. Set your craft materials to the side and be prepared for a fun Christmas activity the next day.

First get together paints. Tempera paint is best when making handprint art for Christmas. Green or red paint would be best for an elf’s outfit.

Use your paint brush to paint your toddler’s hand. You can avoid painting one of your child’s fingers, maybe the ring finger to keep four appendages (two arms, two legs) – otherwise your elf might have a tail like ours!

Carefully place your child’s on the Elf printable template so that a finger lines up with each hand and each foot. The palm will line up with the elve’s face.

Allow your hand print to dry.

After dry, color your elf’s head, hands and feet.

Now you have a small handprint frozen in time.

Extend the activity with more Christmas Handprint Art printables and paper crafts.

TIP: This is best for preschoolers as very small hands need to cover this Elf body. Did your child’s hand cover the head or hands of this elf craft? If so, print out a second sheet of paper with the elf head, hands and feet. Let your child color the head, hands and feet and then carefully cut them out. Use glue sticks to glue your cut out pieces on top of the dried handprint. You could even add googly eyes for a 3-d touch. Use your own creativity to make the cutest paper elves ever.

Can I do this fun elf craft with a footprint?

Yes, this can easily be a footprint elf craft too. Make both – a handprint and footprint – as cute elf craft ideas to hang on the Christmas tree or display as Christmas Décor on the fireplace. Follow the same instructions only paint your child’s footprint instead of small hand. The grandparents would especially love this gift idea.

Elf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Free Elf on the Shelf Handprint Art Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Grab this fun handprint art and add your child’s handprint using this free printable template. This paper elf craft can be used to make Christmas cards or a gift for the grandparents.

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

Disclosure policy: By downloading digital downloads you are accepting the copyright terms and permissions that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions. If you don’t have a printer, use Staples Online printing.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Follow on social media! Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. Leave a comment here or on Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Have fun with this idea – Elf on the Shelf drawing on eggs a Merry Christmas message. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

We are back, so is the Elf on the Shelf! If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you a new Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily (in the months of November and December) for the past seven years. You can view our Elf on the Shelf Master List for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done.

For many of these Elf on the Shelf ideas, make sure you have an elf that can bend. You can do that easily with our Bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.  You also can shop our collection of Elf Printables for ideas to cover the entire season!

Elf on the Shelf Egg Drawing

Create this cute message in the refridgerator.

Elf on the Shelf Supplies Needed

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• 1 1/2 dozen Eggs
• Marker

In this fun Elf idea write Merry Christmas and draw a few candy canes on 18 eggs. Easy, peasy but really cute message for your child.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Don’t forget one of our favorite Elf on the Shelf Egg ideas – the magic egg trick.

This Elf on the Shelf Egg ideas covers 2 days. One day a plain egg, the next day a Kinder Joy chocolate egg.

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf on the Shelf Printables.

Elf on the Shelf on Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

We have been doing Elf on the Shelf forever. See our Elf on the Shelf Master List. Pin to Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

If you’re looking for some fun, lighthearted holiday entertainment, an old-fashioned Christmas carol may not be the way to go this year. Instead, Elf yourself with the app and free printable Elf Template in light and dark skin paper elves. Enjoy new, creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and we all know that this Christmas season is a great time for a new family holiday tradition. From baking cookies for Santa, making a birthday cake for Jesus, or welcoming a family elf there are many ways you can create fun activities in the home.

Of course if you are an Elf on the Shelf fan, you are going to want to catch elf moving! Make your own JibJab Christmas ecard, create a fun paper Christmas craft Elf doll, use a stop motion app to catch your family elf moving within your home, or make your own viral ElfYourself video.

ElfYourself App

Let’s talk about the Elf Yourself Phone all. Spread holiday cheer with a fun ElfYourself App. Get ready for belly laughs when you transform your family into dancing elf dolls.

What is ElfYourself?

ElfYourself is a popular app of the holiday season. Rated E for everyone, it is available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Since 2006, this Office Depot original has created over 2 billion customized elves. It features dancing elves featuring many dance styles. Upload photos of you, your family or even your furry friends. Up to five elves can be added this this adorable dancing elves video.

How much does ElfYourself App cost?

It is free to download the ElfYourself app. And I promise this free holiday app is worth it.

If you want to customize your elf dances, you will pay. There are a number of in-app purchases available which are all different types of dances/themes. You can share your Christmas movie card for free, download for $7.99 or get a season pass for $5.00

How to make an ElfYourself Video

The interface is very user friendly.  Download this app to tablets, android devices or your Apoole IOS platform. Once you download the Elf Yourself App, it’s easy to create your family ElfYourself video.

Visitors upload faces of themselves or their friends and have the option to post the created video to other sites or save it as a personalized mini-film.

To get started…

1.) Upload an image of yourself using Facebook photos, your camera roll, by taking a photo, using chosen faces or connecting Instagram.

2.) Line up the mouth and position the face to center it in the elf face frame. Pinch to zoom, turn to rotate or drag to move.

3.) Choose up to 4 more Elf faces of friends, family members and/or pets.

4.) Add a personalized greeting.

5.) Choose your favorite dance style from dozens of fun holiday videos.

6.) Watch your dancing little elves star in adorable elf movies.

Let’s see your amazing dancing skills. Happy Elfing!

Elf Yourself Template

Of course have fun making your own dancing paper elf craft with a little bit of creativity. With this fun printable Christmas craft, you can Elf yourself for free!

The whole family will enjoy this cutest coloring activity and holiday craft. You could even have your Elf on the Shelf bring the supplies.

Supplies

It’s very easy to gather your Christmas Elf craft supplies. In fact, you likely have everything you need already.

• Free Elf Template Printable PDF Download (see below)
• Brads Fasteners or glue stick
• White cardstock or printer paper
• Printer
• Scissors
• Glue
• Optional: Crayons, colored pencils or markers
• Optional: The Elf on the Shelf Doll

Note: If you want a moveable dancing paper elf, use the brads fasteners available here. These will help you show off your dance moves and elf yourself with your own Christmas elf craft.

How do I make a paper elf?

First, download and print your paper elf templates. You can choose the white elf, black elf, or color an Elf to personalize your activity.

Once your paper elf template is printed (on white paper cardstock or printer paper), cut out the pieces of your Elf. Cut out the illustrations including the elf hat, arms, legs, body, head, Christmas gift box and holly. Lay your cuts aside.

Choose if you will use brads for a moveable paper elf doll or glue for a stationary Elf on the Shelf. If using brads, use scissors to poke a small hole in the shoulders and hips of your paper elves. If using glue, start gluing all the parts together.

Viola! You built your own happy Elf doll. Hang on your Christmas tree as an ornament or put on your kids’ art wall for a fun way to to display holiday flare.

Tip: You can also use the black and white printable page as cute Elf on the Shelf coloring pages. An Elf on a Shelf idea is to have your Santa’s helpers bring a cute Elf on the Shelf coloring page on one of their daily visits.

What are some elf yourself alternatives?

While Elf yourself is an amazing platform and app that will bring a lot of holiday humor to your family, you might be looking for something a little bit within the budget… like maybe something free?!

Take a look at these alterative ideas to ElfYourself…

• Elf on the Shelf Tracker – use the stop motion app and track your Elf in your home
• Printable Elf Template – download and print our printable Elf template in the free elf on the shelf printables library. Instead of using the provided elf’s head, use Shutterfly (or another photo resource) and out out the heads of your family. Have fun creating your own elf yourself template with your family’s faces.
• Elf Crafts – Fun ideas from elf coloring pages to a paper elf puppet template, take a look at these fun Christmas crafts. Get into the Christmas spired with these cute & inspired Elf on the shelf craft ideas.
• JibJab– create holiday ecards by uploading photos of your family and friends.

Ready to download your own printable elf template? See below and have so much fun making your own Elf on the Shelf simple craft.

Printable Elf Template Cut & Play

Build your own elf with a free printable elf yourself template. This printable Christmas Craft comes in three different styles

• Elf printable coloring page you can personalize
• Dark skinned Elf template
• Light skinned Elf template

Young children will get into the holiday spirit with this easy idea you can do today!

>>Download the Free Elf Printable Template Set<<

Free Elf Printables

This freebie is found in our free Elf on the Shelf printable library!

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

More Printable Elf Props

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. Leave a comment here or on Pinterest.

By downloading digital downloads you are accepting the copyright terms and permissions that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions. If you don’t have a printer, use Staples Online printing.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Who knew oranges could create such funny Elf on the Shelf ideas. These emoji oranges are a quick and easy Elf idea! New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

We are back, so is the Elf on the Shelf! If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you a new Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily (in the months of November and December) for the past seven years. You can view our Elf on the Shelf Master List for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done.

For many of these Elf on the Shelf ideas, make sure you have an elf that can bend. You can do that easily with our Bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.  You also can shop our collection of Elf Printables for ideas to cover the entire season!

Is there an Elf Emoji?

Unfortunately Elf on the Shelf doesn’t have an emoji. You can grab a Santa🎅, Christmas Tree🎄, Present 🎁 and other festive holiday emojis, but if you want an Elf emoji, you are going to get something green with point ears that looks like a cross of Zelda and Robbin Hood in a variety of shades and wearing a green or blue top. 🧝🧝🏻🧝🏽🧝🏾🧝‍♂️🧝🏻‍♂️🧝🏿‍♂️

Elf Orange Emoji

If you came here looking to copy and past the orange emoji, here it is 🍊

But really most of you landing on this page for this adorable Elf on the Shelf idea with Emoji Oranges. Such a simple Elf idea and so cute for your kids.

Elf on the Shelf Supplies Needed

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Oranges
• Sharpie Markers

For this simple Elf on the Shelf emoji ideas with oranges, grab your Sharpie marker and open the emojis in your phone. Use your permanent markers to make adorable emoji faces. Lay your oranges with artwork around your Elf for a cute Elf on the Shelf idea.

It’s so easy your kids can do it (… and I know, because my older kids DID do it!)

Stay in the Emoji Fruit Theme!

Also look at our Elf on the Shelf Emoji Idea and Elf on the Shelf Fruit Ideas!

Elf on the Shelf Emoji Idea

For another cute Elf on the Shelf Emoji idea, grab your child’s emoji resources and also cut some tiny emoji heart eyes. It fits the theme to keep the emoji Elf idea going.

Elf on the Shelf Fruit Ideas

This is one of our original Elf on the Shelf ideas – can you tell from the age of the doll? It is a classic elf doll. Anyhoo, use one of those left over oranges and insert a fun straw. Orange juice anyone? We love this elf drinks an orange Elf on the Shelf orange idea.

For more Christian Elf on the Shelf ideas, print our free Fruits of the Spirit Elf on the Shelf Notes. It’s a cool way to stay in the spirit of the season, remember the birth of Jesus.

Full disclosure. Most of my fruit was rotten so I though it was very applicable to say “in a world full of rotten fruit, be a fruit of the spirit!”

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables including our Elf on the Shelf Fruits of the Spirit!

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf on the Shelf Printables.

Elf on the Shelf on Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

We have been doing Elf on the Shelf forever. See our Elf on the Shelf Master List. Pin to Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

This Christmas season encourage your child with these 24 Christian Letter Board, advent calendar Bible verses and Jesus inspired printables. Use with your Elf on the Shelf or Christian Elf alternative ideas. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

If you believe Jesus Christ is the reason for the season, then these Christian ideas for Elf on the Shelf for you. Download and print our encouraging Christian Letter Boards with sweet messages your North Pole visitor can deliver daily. Alternatively, use a few of the Christian alternatives for Elf on the Shelf and spread the sweet message of Christmas and the the story of the birth of Christ.

Is there a Christian version of Elf on the Shelf?

Does your child enjoy the idea of having an Elf on the Shelf daily? Does this cause you anxiety or would you like to make sure with the arrival of Elf (or another character) you are still sharing the story of Jesus? Whatever your concern, we have a few Christian ideas for Elf on the Shelf.

First, let’s talk about the daily visitor. Is Elf on the Shelf necessary? Actually no. Your child can enjoy the idea of a daily visitor without use a red elf or Santa.

Take a look at these Christian alternatives to Elf on the Shelf.

Shepherd on the Search

Likely the most popular alternative to Elf on a Shelf is Shepherd on a Search. In the theme of the first Christmas, this activity set can relocate Shepherd in a new location daily. This little Shepherd boy goes on a daily ADVENTures and counts down the days until Christmas day as he searches for baby Jesus. The set comes with a plush Shepherd , beautiful Christmas book and box that can be used as a nativity. You can purchase the addition of a little lamb or camel pet. Read the story of the shepherd’s timeless journey and discover the joy of finding Christ in CHRISTmas.

Star from Afar

Star from Afar is an advent calendar and playset. This set comes with a book and 13 piece wooden nativity set. Similar to the hide and seek of Elf on the Shelf, the star will be hidden in a new spot each day. Your children will look for the star and then move all three wise men to its location. This will have the 3 wise men following the star of Bethlehem.  On Christmas Eve, place the star on the top of the nativity stable and on Christmas morning, the three wise men reach the nativity scene and find their king, baby Jesus!

Wise Men Journey

The Wise Men Journey is a Biblical Christmas devotional. Go on a journey with the three wise men as they search for Baby Jesus. Similar to a 25-day advent calendar, enjoy reading a Christmas devotional storybook that daily reveals the authentic Christmas story. Follow three wooden Wise Men and hang 25 wooden ornaments daily on your Christmas tree. Your family will go on a Christmas adventure and celebrate the first Christmas in a whole new way!

Other Christian Elf on the Shelf Alternatives

Also take a look at The Giving Manger and What God Wants for Christmas (buy used, no longer in production). Both are great ways to tell the story of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem to your kiddos.

Easy Elf on the Shelf Christian Message for Letter Boards

If you already have a family Elf take a look at these cute ideas for spreading the message of Christmas. This cute printable set of Christian Elf letterboards drops the mischief. It ignores the messes. Instead your elf is on the assignment to instead brings encouragement and examples of good behavior.

Download these 24 Easy Elf prop printables that share the true meaning of Christmas through faith-based daily Elf on the Shelf ideas.

Supplies

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Printer
• Cardstock or Printer Paper (I like Astrobrights white card stock – it’s lasted me for years)
• Scissors

Instructions

First, download the Christmas Message Letter Boards (see below.) Once your purchase is downloaded to your computer, print from your computer at home (or your local print shop.)

Cut apart your Elf letter board props. You will have a total of twenty-four letter boards. You can start Elf in the first day of December or use these with some of the other printable Christian Elf props below for a total of all the days from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.

Deliver one printable letter board each day or bring them all at once.

Printable Christmas Letter Board Ideas for Elf

Download and print your printable Christian letter boards for your Elf. Elf can bring each of these daily or all at once. You can create a few letter boards into something fun.

For example, use the “Jesus is my rock and that’s how I roll” message and pair Elf playing canned drums or a guitar.

You can also use the “If the stars are made to worship, so will I” message and turn Elf into an astronaut.

Christian Quotes for Letter Boards Include:

• Wise men still seek Him
• You are a child of God
• Choose Joy
• The true spirt of Christmas lives in your heart
• He is a way maker
• Worry ends when faith begins
• “Trust the Lord with all your heart” Proverbs 3:5
• Love thy neighbor
• Oh come let us adore him Christ the Lord
• “Love is patient. Love is kind.” 1 Corinthians 13:4

… and more!

This Christmas Letter Board printables for Elf include 24 messages to use daily from December 1 until Christmas morning.

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

More ways Christians can use Elf on the Shelf

You can go the entire Elf on the Shelf season with only faith-based Elf the Shelf ideas. Skip the naughty behavior and spread the message of the reason for the season. All of these Christian Elf on the Shelf ideas include Elf on the Shelf printables with Biblical messages straight about Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit.

Fruits of the Spirit

In a world full of rotten fruit, be a fruit of the spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faitfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Download these cute Elf on the Shelf Fruit of the Spirit cards and pair as as cute El idea with fruit.

Nativity Scene

Next place your Scout Elf in front of a nativity scene. Download this Isaiah 9:6 Bible Verse Printable and share this Elf on the Shelf bible verse “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

Random Acts of Kindness

The whole elf thing can spread good cheer too via RAKs. Create Kindness Elves with 25 kindness cards, a random act of kindness checklist and blank Elf notes for you to personalize fill out on your own ideas.

Turn your random acts of kindness into a family activity. Also download this free Elf on the Shelf give a hand day. This can look like volunteering, a soup kitchen, or RAK random acts of kindness day ideas.

Advent Calendar Bible Verses

Advent cards are a fun way to tell the story of Jesus’ birth and resurrection. These easy to read Elf on the Shelf Bible Verses for kids can be used with your little elves, Shepherd boy or three wise men. This set includes 24 Christmas scripture cards to use during the advent season. Start on December 1st and countdown the days until Christmas. Pair these daily advent activities with candy, a small treat or toys.

Can these be used for Shepherd on the Search Ideas?

Yes, you do not need an Elf on the Shelf to share the true meaning of Christmas with your child. Use all of these good messages and turn them in to Shepherd on a Search ideas or use any of the above Elf on the Shelf Christian alternatives to share the Christmas story. The greatest gift you can give your child in the month of December is the story of our savior. Do this however you see fit, with whichever character or delivery method you desire.

Free Elf on the Shelf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! This includes Bible verses, Elf notes, and more.

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

By downloading digital downloads you are accepting the copyright terms and permissions that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions. If you don’t have a printer, use Staples Online printing.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Follow on social media! Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. Leave a comment here or on Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.