Candy Cane Close-Up

Sweet and simple, this candy cane close-up fills the page with one big striped treat. The hooked top curves over a generous ribbon bow tied near the bend, and a couple of holly leaves and red berries rest against the base. Because the shapes are large and few, it is a relaxed choice for toddlers and beginners, while the diagonal stripes give older colorers a chance to keep their lines neat and even. Candy canes have been a Christmas tradition for well over a century, and their classic red-and-white spiral is one of the easiest patterns to recognize. Try alternating the stripes to make the spiral pop, or invent your own peppermint colors. The holly adds a touch of green and red to balance the design. Print it on US Letter or A4 and hang it on the fridge when you are done.