Hanukkah Dreidel Game Free Printable Fuse Bead Template

Celebrating Hanukkah with a fun and creative activity is now easier than ever with my free printable fuse bead dreidel game template! This craft is perfect for kids and families, combining creativity and tradition into a delightful hands-on project.

Let’s explore how to use the template, make your dreidel spinner, and play this classic game.

free printable dreidel craft for Hanukkah

The template includes everything you need to enjoy this festive activity! Not only can you craft the spinner and coins needed to play the dreidel game, but you can also create the four classic dreidel sides featuring the Hebrew letters Nun, Gimmel, Hey, and Shin as a fun standalone craft.

These designs are perfect for adding a creative touch to your Hanukkah celebration while teaching kids about the significance of the game.

All of these elements are included in the free template, making it simple to craft, play, and celebrate together.

Significance of the Dreidel Game for Hanukkah

The dreidel game is a beloved tradition during Hanukkah, symbolizing the resilience of Jewish people during times when practicing their faith was forbidden. Traditionally, a dreidel is a four-sided top that is spun for a game that holds deep significance in Jewish culture, especially during Hanukkah.

The four Hebrew letters on the dreidel – Nun, Gimmel, Hey, and Shin – represent the phrase “Nes Gadol Haya Sham,” which means “A great miracle happened there.”

This miracle refers to the oil that lasted for eight days, a central part of the Hanukkah story. Playing dreidel is a way to celebrate and teach these traditions while sharing joy with family and friends during the Jewish holidays.

How to Make the Fuse Bead Dreidel Spinner

Creating your dreidel spinner with this free template is a fantastic way to engage kids in the holiday spirit.

First, print the template at 100% actual size to ensure the design fits perfectly. Gather your 5mm fuse beads, a hexagonal pegboard, and some wax paper for ironing.

If it’s your first time using fuse beads aka perler beads, check our guide on how to iron perler beads which will help you understand how to use this craft material.

Follow the provided design to assemble the dreidels, the spinner base, and the gelt (the yellow gold coins) using beads.

The four traditional dreidel shapes are a Hanukkah craft and not needed to play the game with your fuse beats – use the spinning top and Hanukkah gelt to play, the other dreidel shapes on the template are decorative.

perler bead dreidel craft for Hanukkah jewish holidays

After arranging the beads, carefully iron them with wax paper until they fuse together. Once cooled, insert a cocktail stick through the center of the spinner to turn it into a functional dreidel.

This hands-on craft is a great way for kids to practice fine motor skills while learning about Hanukkah traditions.

Plus, making the spinner adds an extra layer of excitement as they see their creation come to life!

Rules of the Dreidel Game

Playing the dreidel game is simple and loads of fun. Follow the easy instructions below, which are also included on the printable page.

free printable Hanukkah dreidel template for perler beads aka Hama beads or fuse beads

Begin by giving each player an equal number of gelt (or use the gold coins included in the template). Place one piece of gelt in the center “pot” to start. Players take turns spinning the dreidel, and the action depends on which Hebrew letter the dreidel lands:

Nun (נ): Do nothing.
Gimmel (ג): Take all the gelt from the pot.
Hey (ה): Take half of the gelt in the pot (round up if needed).
Shin (ש): Put one piece of gelt into the pot.

If the pot runs empty, each player adds one piece of gelt to restart. If a player runs out of gelt, they’re out of the game. Play continues until one player has all the gelt, or stop whenever you feel like wrapping up. It’s a simple game that brings plenty of laughs and fun competition!

This fuse bead dreidel game is not only a wonderful way to enjoy Hanukkah traditions but also doubles as a creative crafting project. It encourages quality family time, provides an opportunity to discuss the significance of the holiday, and gives kids a sense of accomplishment when they see their handmade spinner in action. Whether you’re new to the dreidel game or it’s already a family favorite, this craft adds a fresh and exciting twist to the holiday.

Download the Free Dreidel Template PDF

Ready to get started? Download the free printable template and gather your perler beads and other crafting supplies for this festive activity. You’ll have everything you need to create your own dreidel, a spinner, and plenty of gelt to play the game.

Terms of use: This Hanukkah dreidel printable perler bead activity is free for personal use and classroom use, not for commercial purposes.. If not already signed up via Grow you may need to enter your email address to access the file, but it will show up right here in your browser window ready to print. No need to check your email to receive the file.

More Hanukkah Crafts for Kids

If you enjoyed this dreidel game craft, you’ll love exploring even more Hanukkah crafts and activities to keep the celebration going this holiday season.