Elf on the Shelf Supplies & Accessories
Everything you need for a great Elf on the Shelf season, organized by scene type. Most ideas on this site use items you already have — this guide fills the gaps when you want to go a bit bigger.
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Elf on the Shelf Scout Elf + Book Set (Boy or Girl)
The classic starter pack — book explains the story, doll becomes the scout. Gift this if someone doesn't have one yet.
See on AmazonElf on the Shelf Claus Couture Clothing
Dress your elf in different outfits throughout the season — the Santa pajamas and the rockstar set are kid favorites.
See Claus Couture outfitsElf Pets (Reindeer, Saint Bernard, Fox)
Add a companion pet that follows the elf. Kids love having a new Pet arrive mid-season.
See Elf PetsKitchen scene props
Mini chef hat
Essential for baking and cookie-making scenes. Takes a simple kitchen scene to "aww" level.
Search AmazonTiny rolling pin + baking tools
Use with flour or frosting for convincing "elf has been baking" setups.
Search AmazonMini Christmas cookie cutters
Pair with real cookie dough for an elf "caught mid-baking" scene with actual edible output.
Search AmazonMini coffee mug set
Great for 'elf drinking coffee' or 'elf in hot cocoa' scenes. Look for 2-inch mugs.
Search AmazonCraft & scene-building essentials
Fishing line / clear thread
Invisible suspension for zip-line, parachute, and ceiling-fan scenes. One spool lasts years.
Search AmazonMini printable scene kit
Downloadable signs, speech bubbles, and props you can print on demand for 24+ scenes.
Search AmazonWashable dry-erase markers
For writing mirror messages, drawing on framed photos, and any scene that involves marker mischief. Critical they're washable.
Search AmazonGoogly eyes (assorted sizes)
Stick on fruit, appliances, or picture frames for instant silly scenes. One pack of 500 will last you multiple years.
Search AmazonMini marshmallows
Snowmen, bubble baths, weightlifting scenes — marshmallows are the most versatile elf prop.
Search AmazonBedroom & living room props
Battery-operated tea lights
Safe 'campfire' and 'reading by candlelight' scenes. Never use real candles with kids around.
Search AmazonMini string lights
For wrapping the elf, stringing a zipline, or decorating miniature scenes.
Search AmazonFelt Christmas stockings (mini)
For "elf sleeping in a stocking" and scene decoration. Way cuter than full-size.
Search AmazonBathroom scene props
Mini rubber duck set
Essential for any bathtub/sink scene. Works with marshmallow bubble baths too.
Search AmazonToilet paper (multi-pack)
For TP-the-tree, TP-the-bathroom, and countless toilet paper scenes. You probably have this already, but if not.
Search AmazonHow we pick products
Every product above was chosen because it's genuinely useful for Elf on the Shelf scenes — not because it pays the highest commission. We prefer items that work for multiple scenes (versatility) and items that last multiple years (no annual repurchase).
We earn a small commission if you buy through our links. This doesn't change the price for you and helps keep the site free. Thank you for supporting our work.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need to buy props to do Elf on the Shelf?
- No — most great scenes use everyday household items: bowls, cereal, toilet paper, tape, a cup of coffee, a stack of books. Props are optional. Browse the "Easy" filter on the generator for scenes that need zero extras.
- What's the official Elf on the Shelf?
- The Elf on the Shelf® is a book + Scout Elf doll set published by The Lumistella Company. It includes the hardcover story, the elf doll, and an optional adoption certificate. We link to the classic set on Amazon above; many households use a similar-looking elf or keep one through generations.
- How much does Elf on the Shelf cost?
- The official book + doll set runs roughly $30–35. Accessory kits and themed outfits can add up fast — if you're on a budget, stick to the core set and use household items for scenes. Every idea on this site is rated so you can filter by effort and avoid anything requiring a prop you don't have.
- Where can I find Elf on the Shelf props and accessories?
- Amazon carries the official sets, accessories, and a huge range of mini props (tiny hats, thimble-sized cups, toy props) that scale to the elf. Our shop page lists the categories worth checking; outgoing links are affiliate links that support the site at no extra cost to you.