Girls Camp Craft: Jesus and Me Peg Dolls

One of the sweetest, most memorable crafts we did at Girls Camp this year was painting “Jesus and Me” Peg Dolls. This simple activity turned into a heartfelt reminder that Jesus is always by our side—unique to each of us, and deeply personal. Plus, the girls absolutely loved painting something they could take home and treasure.

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Since this year's camp theme was Look Unto Christ in One Direction, we tried to give the girls a creative way to connect with the Savior—and something that felt both symbolic and personal. I kept that theme up in the crafts I chose.  

Jesus and Me Dolls Girls Camp Craft

Each girl painted two peg dolls: one to represent herself, and one to represent Jesus. These little dolls became tangible reminders of a spiritual truth we emphasized all week: Look unto Christ in everything.

Supplies to Make Jesus and Me Peg Dolls

• Wooden peg dolls large and small

• Acrylic paint in a variety of colors, especially white for the robe, brown for hair and other hair colors.

• Fine tip paintbrushes 

• Fine tip marker for eyes

• Mod podge or clear spray sealant (if desired)

Instructions for making Jesus and Me Peg Dolls

As I said here, we had to change our plans due to weather, so rather than do the craft as a group, the YW did the craft in their cabins with the cabin moms.  Luckily one of the other leaders had brought some small jars so we were able to divide up the paint and supplies.  

We gave each cabin (of 24 girls) about 25-30 sets of peg dolls and various paints and brushes.

I gave the girls some examples of how to paint Jesus but encouraged them to paint Him how they saw him.  

I used white for his robe and brown for his hair and beard.  Some girls followed that example and some painted Him in white robes, others added sandals, a red sash, long hair, or symbolic hearts and gold.

With the other peg doll they were to paint themselves, with any features or clothing styles they wanted.  

Once again, I gave them the example of how I painted myself but encouraged them to paint themselves however they'd like.

After the paint was dry, they could add cheeks, eyeballs and other small details, like a flower.  

As I walked around to the various cabins, the conversations around the table were filled with laughter, quiet creativity, and spiritual reflection.  Many of the girls said they planned to keep their dolls on their dresser or in their scripture bag as a daily reminder of His love.  This didn't seem to just be a craft, it was an experience.  These little peg dolls may be small, but the message they carry is big: You are loved. You are known. You are never alone.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, creative camp activity, Jesus and Me Peg Dolls are a perfect choice. They combine art, personal expression, and spiritual connection in a way that sticks with the girls long after camp is over. And isn’t that exactly what we want?