Slim Jim Trees

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Christmas is coming at us fast this year. We’re checking the last few items off of our shopping list this week, but I’m already thinking about stocking stuffers and small gifts. Here’s where you can show your creative side and have a little fun. In years past, I have put together treat-filled mugs for school teachers and mail carriers, and this year I have created something cute and tasty to go with our gifts, Slim Jim Trees.

I found this 26 pack of Slim Jim jerky over by the popcorn in my Walmart store. Inside this small box, each Slim Jim is individually wrapped so you can easily separate them all for gifting. Slim Jims are a refreshing change from all of the sweet treats during the holidays. They provide a nice change with their tangy, savory and spicy flavors.

After I picked up main ingredient, I wanted to make it look pretty so I headed for the craft department. I had the idea to make the Slim Jims into trees, so I knew I obviously needed something green and sturdy. I found small foam sheets that were both of those things, and a few other items to trim the trees.

Once home, I laid out our goodies, and the plan. The great thing about this project is that it’s perfect to do with the kids. In fact, these would make great gifts for the kids not only to make, but to give as well.

Step 1: Cut the small rectangular foam sheets in half horizontally. You will end up with two tall rectangles.

Step 2:  Cut your rectangle into a tree top. I like to trace out the shape in pencil on the backside just to make sure I was happy with the shape before cutting.

Step 3:  Add a strip of glue to the top three quarters of the back of the Slim Jim (turn it around so the label is on the back). Position the foam branches onto the tree stump, i.e. the Slim Jim.

Step 4: Trim your tree! We added glitter glue and jewel dots.

Slim Jims are great not only for small gifts but party favors too.

How would you make make your Slim Jims snappy?