DIY Lifesize Nutcracker (easy + no power tools!)

Today we're making a HUGE CHRISTMAS DIY - a lifesize nutcracker (over 6FT tall) and we're doing it on a budget and WITHOUT power tools. This Christmas craft is easy to put together and easy to store when the holiday season is over.
2022 Christmas in July playlist:
bit.ly/3OQx6zu
Supplies:
Wood glue:
bit.ly/3MUyTlp
Pine Wood round:
12" + 18"
Wood (Cut into 12" pieces):
bit.ly/3MVM6KO
Cement tube:
bit.ly/3xVmitT
PVC pipe:
*I purchased PVC pipe pre-cut inside the store, but you can save money if you can find a store that will cut the longer sections of pipe for you.
pre-cut: bit.ly/3HuLPNL
10 ft: bit.ly/3NWp7Re
EVA foam:
bit.ly/3HH6tdD
#ChristmasDIY #Nutcracker #ChicOnTheCheap
This video was not sponsored. Some links in this post contain affiliates. Thank you for all of your support! 💗
Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a professional and that all projects seen on my channel must be completed at your own risk. I do not take responsibility for any harm or injury that may occur. Please be careful!

[@TheDailyDIYer]

I am BLOWN AWAY! Your nutcracker looks SO SO GOOD! I may have to recreate your tutorial (with my own twist). So smart to make it easy to break down and store away too! I can't wait to see what name he or she gets. Merry Christmas in July! 🎄

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thank you Shannon! Thank you for including me in this collaboration! 🎄

[@barbaramcallister2244]

No lol lol lo I’m N kkk

[@mr.a.]

I think Frosty is a good name idk 🤷‍♂️ looks like pink delish frosting 🧁

[@meetvirginia7023]

Best idea I’ve seen in a couple of years. I’m doing this! Thx Sara 🥰

[@reneerasile8059]

@@ChicOnTheCheap love this even went by dollar tree today and bought some pool noodles today so I can do it in the winter since they don't sell pool noodles all year

[@TheCraftyDIYGuy]

I am beyond obsessed with this, I have never seen something so amazing!! I want to make two of these for my house! I think this could even be used in place of a Christmas tree for small spaces. I love it so much!

[@jennifersignsoflife1375]

Thank You SO Much for participating in "Christmas in July"! There are so many crafting channels available that it's impossible to sort through all of them, so it was a BRILLIANT idea for you guys to collaborate like this. I just *LOVE* your channel!

[@SarcasticPixie]

Same!!! This is fantastic.

[@TheLatinaNextDoor]

Holy moly! That is an amazing nutcracker DIY!!!! The would look so good by a front door! I may need to try one myself! Loved being a part of the Christmas in July collab! So many great ideas!🎄😁

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thanks so much Yami!

[@desireetman]

This is so adorable and while it is awesome for Christmas…I was also thinking the design could be modified for Halloween. I have always wanted a nutcracker vampire or witch or both 🧙🏼‍♀️🧛🏼🖤

[@melbabowen4389]

That’s a great idea!

[@BSWVI]

So smart! Instant Frankenstein's monster with just a very few modifications.

[@xtinefong4542]

Great idea!

[@shirliestratton7790]

great idea

[@shirliestratton7790]

the awkward aquarious great idea

[@CreativeontheCheap]

AMAZING Sara Jane! You knocked this out of the park and the fact that you can break it down and store it is an added bonus! Great job, girl! P.S. I think his name should be Spencer 😆

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thank you Courtney! Love that name 😉

[@arleneaugustahair8393]

This is taking crafting to a whole new level. I love this!

[@HeatherEarl]

Now I definitely want to do this. What was the final cost? As for the name.. Lord Pinkerton 🤣

[@msvsalt]

For years I have watched videos on how to make life size nutcrackers and this was by far the best video in terms of clarity, simplicity and cost. Bravo, excellent job and much appreciated.

[@jennydrain2089]

Wow! I have always dreamed of getting my Dad a life size nutcracker as he has 100’s of nutcrackers but we have never been able to afford a life size one but you have just made it possible bc we can make one. Such a phenomenal job!!

[@neldagarcia9328]

Omg!!!! This is Amazing!! I ❤️ it!!! Name: Sir Pinkalot!!!

[@deaneclark6469]

@@neldagarcia9328 I love Sir Pinkalot, awesome name, fits perfectly! I love it!❤️

[@PamelaMennel]

Barron Filbert von Cracks-a-Lot, 25th Brigadier General in the Sugarplum Fairy Queen’s Royal Spaceforce

[@rykersmimi]

Omg!!! Girl, you've outdone Christmas in July.....WOW!!! I can't wait to recreate this Nutcracker this winter!! Omg my grandbabies are gonna be blown away, just like I was 🥰🥰

[@mellodym5931]

LOVE this!! So creative! I love the Nutcracker! You did a great job! How about Col. Chic? I am thinking I will have to make one (or more) of these! Thank you so much for the tutorial.

[@shandaedwards9974]

This is the best tutorial I’ve seen for a DIY life-size nutcracker! Thank you so much for being so detailed and thinking of those of us without power tools. We will definitely be using this for our holiday decor.

[@delagonz4295]

Agreed

[@GlitterPoolParty]

Love your nutcracker. I suggest naming him "Captain Creme de la Creme!" I would worry about the top half being easily knocked off the base, so maybe add 4 more wood blocks glued to the top of the middle section at 12:00, 3:00, 6:00 & 9:00 to slide the body over to secure it from being knocked off.

[@seritaepperson2515]

I love it!!!! I’ve been wanting to make my own Nutcrackers for a few years now and you’ve shown me an easier way to do it! I will start collecting my supplies now! Thank you so much!

[@lauramccoy7773]

He's amazing! Great job! I'm going to call him SIr Cotton Candyman. He just makes me smile and think of everything sweet and magical from childhood. I love your creations and thank you so much for all you do! Now I can't wait for Christmas :)

[@niftyandthrifty505]

Super cute! His name should be Sir Phillipe On The Cheap💂🏻🎄❄️⛄️🎅🏻🤶🏻🎁

[@joannaschmidt1925]

It's not Christmas without nutcrackers!! I love them, your creation is absolutely gorgeous!!

[@tonyadler4080]

This is amazing! Tip for those trying this-those wood rounds are way cheaper at Home Depot or Lowes!

[@kimberleyfrasquillo3684]

@Tony Adler ~ I was wondering if that might be the case.🤔 Thank you for the info!

[@Cheray_]

"Most Epic DIY Ever" is such an understatement!! Thank you for participating, you cracked this out the park...he has to be named after your boyfriend (of course) in honor of y'all's first Christmas together😉🥰Can't wait for you, Queen of Halloween, to start my Fall season off right❤🙏🏾

[@GinaP-T]

I love nutcrackers, have a big collection, my biggest one is 48” tall. But man oh man, this one you created is out of this world, you always amaze me with your blowed mind talent!!! 👏🏻 I will name it: BubbleGumCracker 😜🤪 Love it!!! Tyfs!!!

[@Sunsoul888]

Wow. You are so creative!!So handsome and regal.. I would name him Sir. Glamourpus.! Happy crafting and blessings.🙏💞🇺🇸🎅🎄⛄ Please let us know what you name him.

[@debbyritchie2608]

Fantastic job!! I just love it. You are very talented 👏

[@Yrutnec1]

**** BRILLIANT **** Just Brilliant!!!! You go NC Girl! I think his name should be: LEON....which is Noel backward. As American's we read left to right - but Hebrews read right to left. Shared on FB - so the world might know you Sara Jane.

[@desireeluna3197]

Wow wow wow! Just wow. This is fantastic! I know what I'll be doing soon 🤪 thank you so much for sharing. You NEVER disappoint.

[@cindymichaud7111]

Love this Nutcracker! Some Names: Sergeant Shako; Grenadier Gold Cap; Prince Golden: Pink Privateer or Privateer Pinkman; Private Pinkster; Platoon Leader Pinkerton; Prefect Pinkalot. 😂😂😂 Such fun!!! (ps. I believe his hat is called a shako..)

[@loiserwin4364]

OMG!!! This is the most incredible DIY EVER. Amazing job Sara Jane. ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@pennyjenkins7519]

Well Sarah Jane you blew my mind girl your project is impeccable it is absolutely gorgeous I don't even know how you come up with that but I'm so glad you did you went through every little step that you need so good I'm truly speechless because it is that beautiful and I'm so impressed you are awesome thanks for sharing your magnificent Nutcracker and I cannot even think of a name for her /him

[@MLLL1234]

Wow this is creative and beautiful...love that anyone can make it on a budget and any design or color too!!!!

[@darlenecanterbury986]

Wow soooooo good !!!!! And for his name i was thinking he should be named similar to ur name! Same first initials how about Sammy James !!!! Thank u again ur so creative and talented thank u for sharing!!!!!💕💕💕💕💕

[@Touyube8811]

This is amazing! Putting it on my Christmas decor “MUST make” list!!

[@designsbydawn976]

You nailed it girl! This is beautiful 😍 Tfs and God Bless ♥ 🥰

[@kathymackenzie6763]

I absolutely love him . This is so good ! It does not look homemade without power tools. Love it 😀 He looks like a Pierre to me for sure . Love & prayers ❤️ 🙏🏻

[@darleneloflin9977]

Hi Jane, I love your tutorial and have a quick question for you. I feel like I would need to secure the torso half to the support disc. Did you secure it temporarily somehow? If so, please share. Thank you!

[@taniaperez5743]

This DIY nutcracker is AMAZING!!!! I've always wanted one of those giant nutcrackers but couldn't see myself paying those high prices . Thanks for making the instructions easy to follow. Can't wait to try it! I love these Christmas in July videos!!

[@iSTYLEMYSTYLE]

I love this idea and its so affordable, I’ll definitely be making one of these!! Thanks so much for always sharing your inspiration!

[@kimtaft619]

Wow! This is amazing! It looks marvelous! Thanks for sharing!

[@barbaralynnmua1902]

Would love a breakdown on the decorative pieces and their measurements on where you got them from. Also, what color is the face? ❤

[@catherineharding5358]

Oh my that’s is absolutely awesome! Great DIY! TFS! The fact that u can take it apart to store it is genius! ❤️🇨🇦

[@mjix1984]

The creativity is pure genius. I think this is amazing and anyone can do it!! What a great Christmas decoration! I'm literally blown away!

[@theeluannesantos]

This is adorable! I love it so much. Pink is my favorite color, everything looks better in pink. The first name that came to mind is Charlie but I’m not sure it’s good enough for him. I’ll have to think about it and come back to edit my comment when I think of the perfect name for him

[@mistymcclanahan1138]

I was trying to think of a good name for him too but nothing seems to be quite good enough. 😁 She did an amazing job. 💗

[@theeluannesantos]

@@mistymcclanahan1138 Exactly! I love it so much. My skills are no where near good enough to even attempt making one. I’m sad about that because I really want one.

[@mistymcclanahan1138]

@@theeluannesantos girl... Same here, I'm not crafty at all but I have a niece who is totally amazing and I want to show this video to her and see what we can accomplish together. I think it would be so fun. I hope you find a creative person to help you as well. ☺️

[@lesliefrady72]

Curious why you didn't do the arms like the legs with pictures? Also, how do you keep the body secure on the base so it won't come off if someone brushes up against it?

[@Mylifesahoot]

OH.MY.GOODNESS!!! I LOVEEEEE this!!!! This turned out amazing!! I’ve always wanted one of these and now I know how to make one myself! Thank you for sharing!💚❤️

[@rogwheel]

Tnanks for this video but some steps were left out. Exact measurements as to where you placed the 2 12” boards on the first round would have been easy to provide and very helpful!!!!! I also noticed that the face and hands were painted brown once it was finished. Exact paint and colors used on each would’ve also been helpful. Also no mention of what was used for the hair.

[@Jakilyn]

Wow! Turned out excellent 👌 👏

[@yolis2007]

Wow! Your nutcracker looks amazing and even better there was no power tools. Girl, you out did yourself with this DIY. 😍❤👏👏 Thanks Sara Jane!

[@madami1425]

This is amazing and by far one of the best Christmas DIYs I have ever seen‼‼‼‼ You knocked it out of the park with this one‼♥️🎉🎄

[@monstermcboo7282]

Acetone on a cotton pad will take the pvc printing right off the pipes. This is truly inspired, SJ. ❤️

[@tracyowens7380]

So amazing! You did an amazing job and make it look easy to do!! Merry July Christmas

[@yolandes2976]

Great video! Where did you buy the hair and the trim please? Thank you for your reply.

[@wendyschlegel5031]

WOW! Your Nutcracker is incredible! What an amazing DIY! I love the fact that it can be taken apart. I also love it in ink. Your details are fantastic! The gold on the pink looks so good. You need to do more DIYs like this.

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thank you so much! I think this was my first non-Dollar Tree DIY! I enjoyed it so much and I'll try to think of more ideas :)

[@cass77788]

i love love love this and its so easy,,,the best thing is no power tools!!!! great!! you are so creative thanks for this !!!

[@kentuckywolf6096]

You NEVER fail to make me mad! 😠 Mad because I just don't have that creative mind to think of something this amazing! It is truly a genius idea & you deserve mad props for this one. I'm part German & lived there for 3 yrs & I just LOVE nutcrackers. I have seen some extraordinary ones both big & small but I don't have the budget to get what my eyes desire lol but now thanks to YOU I can have one to stand next to my beautiful 3 & 4ft Santa's this Christmas! I even REALLY dislike pink but this guy is simply perfect!!! He feels like a Friedrich (gotta pronounce it right tho) to me. Thank you Sarah for sharing your crafty eyes & heart to the less fortunate craft minded ppl like myself...next trip Lowes & I'll be waiting for you to make me mad once again! Lol Question...do you have a description of his other accessories that you used or where you got them? You have the best dollar(not exactly a dollar)tree where you are. More times than not I can never find 75% of the stuff you use & that's been in both Kentucky & Virginia. My non crafty brain doesn't always think outside the box to come up with substitutes either 🤦‍♀️ Anyway, thank you for all you share...it is truly appreciated!

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thank you so much! I got a lot of the ribbon and faux fur for the hair at Hobby Lobby and trim at JoAnns! I hope that helps. Thank you for your kind words.

[@kentuckywolf6096]

@@ChicOnTheCheap thank you...that does help I'll have to see what I can find & yw...you take the time to help us & just wanted you to know it's appreciated.

[@karendoss6026]

Hey Honey, I hate to bother you again but I was wondering how many inches you made the hat and his face. He is awesome!

[@MrsR480]

One of the best DIY’s I’ve ever seen!! Thank you for sharing such an easy way to make one of the most iconic & well-loved pieces during Christmas. I see your nutcracker as a Gus 🤭

[@ArtsyCupcake]

This was so cool!! I just did a Christmas in July video too, but mine was Kirkland's dupes. Love seeing what everyone is coming up with this month to get a head start for Christmas! 💕🎨 Maria

[@ArtsyCupcake]

Oh, and I think he looks like a Buster! 😆

[@robynlutes1415]

I love nutcrackers! I can’t believe the great job you did making this guy and for a decent price. Plus one you can reuse year after year. Great job! Will have to make one of these guys. Thank you for the great tutorial!

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thank you Robyn!

[@thedistressedprincessdiy]

Oh my gosh this is epic!!!! I love that you made home pink and gold. 💗💗💗

[@phyllisgrossetti4511]

OMG Sarah Jane! Holy nutcracker, this is AMAZING. Well constructed and without power tools is a plus. Wonderful design and quality details. As far as a name how about Sir Klaus. TFS your creativity. 🎄❤

[@duchess4480]

Saw this on pinterest and a blog, but certainly appreciate it being created! Thank you, can't wait for Christmas

[@cherylsalinas1548]

Wow you out did yourself this time. It’s gorgeous. If I had room I’d make one. Awesome job. ❤️

[@elbeelondon]

Gosh I'm seeing this months later. you're talented girl, YOU DID THAT!! Subbed immediately!🥰😍💗🎀

[@momof2momof2]

Outstanding job on this ! I have a nutcracker collection that I love. I would name him "Pinky The Palace Guard" or "Holly-wish-us"

[@murphy1384]

Love your name

[@gloriahartley7341]

This is one of the most awesome DIYs I have ever seen. You make the instructions so easy to follow. I am 70 and I am going to make one of these to place next to my fireplace. Thank you so much for sharing this great idea.

[@steph4464]

Sarah Jane! Girl, I'm speechless! This is beautiful! I love love love that you made his outfit pink and gold. Seriously you outdid yourself 👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thank you Steph!

[@steph4464]

Sara. Sorry for misspelling

[@Annmarie-gd3fv]

Repeating what so many others said...AMAZING!!! Love your nutcracker!

[@mistyb8434]

Girl, you never cease to amaze me!!😍 I’ve seen many tutorials on how to make a life-size nutcracker, but by far yours is my absolutely favorite!🥰🫶 I’m definitely going to recreate this and when I do I’ll send you a pic my friend! He reminds me of Pink Panther (old school I know lol 😂).💓

[@juliefizpatrick513]

You always amaze me with ur DIYS but this one is top notch! I’m sure you can come up with a better name than I could! 👍😊🤗💕

[@brendaodiembo1672]

Your Nutcracker is beautiful. You did a great job ❤️

[@michaelrodriguez-uh3fu]

How would you secure the top so that it doesnt fall off the base? I want to make one to put outside?

[@debragriffin5844]

This is fantastic! Thank you for sharing this and your directions are so informative!

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

Thank you Debra!

[@jenniferwills2094]

How did the 12 inch round not fall through the 12 inch concrete tube

[@mariebarker4499]

Make sure you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour! He is coming soon! Please don't be left behind! Repent and accept Jesus! JESUS LOVES YOU! John 3:16, 2 Peter 3:9, Luke 5:32, Acts 3:19, 1 John 1:9, Matthew 4:17, Mark 16 16-18, Revelation 20:15

[@theeluannesantos]

I told my family and friends that Jesus is coming and if they need me that’s where I’ll be.

[@ccinthehouse]

Amen! Keep preaching the gospel sister everyone needs to be born again. JESUS is coming very soon!

[@mariebarker4499]

@@ccinthehouse Thank you! God bless you!!! 🙏❤️💯👏🙌

[@childofpersia1213]

It’s the “Sugar Pink Fairy!”

[@dulcie7715]

Gorgeous. He looks like a Lord Pinkerton to me lol

[@FRUGALNISTA]

Goodness Gracious “Pinky” The Nutcracker looks incredible! I would say you nailed this but technically you didn’t use any nails😂

[@Tia-vj9ox]

I think his name should be Tchaikovsky! You could call him Chai for short! Lol (Names for the composer to The Nutcracker 😉)❤️

[@Tia-vj9ox]

of not to lol

[@lynnwilcoxson7]

I am absolutely in love. I've always wanted to have 2 of these but, like you said very expensive. Thanks to you I will be able to make my own. Thank you so much I love him😊

[@christinarodriguez302]

I love this. What did you use for the top of the arms by his head?

[@partypinching]

Oh my goodness I had to comment. This. Is. Amazing! The BEST Christmas DIY I HAVE EVER SEEN! YES I’M SHOUTING! Absolutely love it!

[@ashleyurban5861]

What are the ribbons and trims you used for this project in details please

[@MsShay101]

Wow!!!!!! This is amazing, I absolutely love it. You have definitely set the bar high. Please do more diy's like this. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@jennifernovak4506]

That is amazing! It turned out so beautiful! 🤩💖🤩

[@hopemack7701]

I love it. How what did you use for the shoulders?

[@brendaroberts6443]

I'm in the process of getting my supply list together for 4 nutcrackers. I shared this wonderful tutorial with my 47 yr old daughter, my 28 yr old granddaughter, and my sister. We are all excited to make our own together in my sister's basement. My daughter, Maria, bought me a beautiful solid wood 6 ft nutcracker several yrs ago, and I named him Mario. Now the one I'm going to make will be painted a very pretty light blue with silver accents to match my Xmas decor on my living room tree. I love Nutcrackers and have a lot in various sizes. Thank you for sharing with us❤

[@c.j.2576]

G-R-E-A-T idea and easy construction & storage later!!! TFS :D

[@dawnu8910]

Wow this is fantastic. I love this project. You should make more projects, you did such a great job. 💗

[@sheriwormsley9313]

Fantastic ! It looked very professional. ❤️

[@createmakedecoratewithnikki]

I absolutely LOVE this and I will definitely try it! Thank you for sharing 😀

[@kishawright4456]

That’s Amazing hunn Jammie the nut cracker

[@LisaKennedyDollarMom]

Sarah Jane this blew my mind!!! Do you have an estimate of what this cost to make?

[@LizzieWestBathandBody]

Wow what an epic DIY thank you for this and you are so right these are so expensive even at Costco I was crushing on that nutcracker they had last year and now I can make my own you rock you're such a boss thank you so much!

[@tinataylor9023]

Amazing!!!! I love the color choices you made, while untraditional yes...but so glam!!!! Thank you for sharing this video and with a few material products just how easy it was to make your own Nutcracker. One of a kind...I love it!!!!!

[@123Mayflower]

Speechless and mind blowing!!!! Wow!!!!! Just… wow!!!! If I get started now I may be able to afford it and complete it by the time Christmas comes around!!!!! Thank you so much!!!!

[@meganwright7343]

This is BY FAR my favorite thing you’ve created! I’m obsessed!! 😍

[@samanthaharteversman1073]

Absolutely stunning. Definitely going to make one or two for myself and one for my best friend. It literally is a fraction of the cost....which is awesome! Thanks so much! P.S. I think his name should be Jack!

[@mkathrynblacker5960]

Oh my gosh, so cute! Fantastic job! 🤗

[@patriciaandjudgey1442]

WOW!!!! IM ABSOLUTELY SPEECHLESS!!!!! GORGEOUS!!!! His name should be Sébastien 💜💜💜💜

[@Mona-pn6nj]

Amazing. Love the nut cracker. I’ll have to try my luck at doing this craft. Can’t wait. Thanks for the inspiration ❤️

[@heidirichardson2341]

I love it! I have several nutcrackers I’ve gotten through the years. So cool!🍬🍬🍭🎁🌲🎄