Wooden Peg Dolls: Kokeshi -

When I was at the NAEA conference two years ago, I saw a station where people were making wooden Kokeshi dolls in the vendor area. Every time I walked by it, either it was too full or I had to be on my way somewhere else. So, I didn’t make one. But, I found the lesson plan online and here are our results!

Here are what traditional Kokeshi dolls look like.

A traditional Kokeshi doll in a floral kimono stands in front of an autumn-themed background with red and yellow leaves, capturing the charm of classic wooden peg dolls.

Modern Kokeshi dolls can be found in many unique styles!

My 3rd grade students study Asia, so I usually teach them about some art from that region.

The students started by making sketches of designs for their dolls. They had some wonderful ideas. However, I never require them to make their final sculpture the same way they made preliminary sketches.

Colorful preliminary sketches of Kokeshi dolls alongside an original drawing, with "Kokeshi Dolls" text. These charming wooden toys showcase intricate detailing and a playful design that captures their unique essence.

After learning about Kokeshi and drawing them, they made their own Kokeshi dolls. We used wooden pegs, other wooden pieces, wooden turnings, Model Magic and wood glue for our dolls. We also used Sharpie markers, acrylic paints, ribbons, fabric and more. I encouraged the kids to take the wooden turning or peg doll and make it their own. They could make any sort of style or design on the sculpture

Various wooden peg dolls, painted and unpainted, are displayed with the text "Kokeshi Dolls" and "Art is Basic.

Hand-painted wooden peg dolls and Kokeshi in various colors and sizes displayed on a white surface. Text reads "Art is Basic" with an arrow.

Hand-crafted Kokeshi dolls made from various materials, decorated with colorful designs and placed against a white background.

As you can see from some of the sculptures, the students came up with many unique ideas for their dolls. I love this Babar elephant. We had a lot of wooden pegs, so many students made multiples to go together.

Various colorful wooden peg dolls, including people and animals, are shown with the text "Wooden Peg Dolls," inspired by traditional Kokeshi designs.

This was a very popular project and some kids in other classes were disappointed that their class was not making dolls. A few girls in older grades were working with clay and found some extra time to make Kokeshi dolls from clay! (the top right and the bottom left are made from kiln fired clay). Wow! I was so impressed by their motivation and dedication.