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DIY Jingle Truck

Writer's picture: Hinna ShahidHinna Shahid

Bring on the color, fun, decorations, and wheels…the jingle trucks are here! We decided to bring VAH Masti book (My First Jingle Truck) to life at Costen Children's Library in Princeton, New Jersey.


Step-inside jingle trucks! The My First Jingle Truck book takes the reader on a journey through the whimsical roads, farms, and the market (bazaar) in South Asia.



What you'll need:

  • Box

  • Tape

  • Decorating supplies (ribbons, beads, stickers, paint and etc)

  • Markers

  • Sizers

  • Tassels

  • Bells


Jingle trucks are famous in South Asia for their elaborate patterns, details, calligraphy, and paintings. These trucks play a significant role in the transportation of goods and are an essential part of the region's vibrant and diverse culture. The term "jingle truck" originates from the tinkling sound made by the numerous chains, bells, and metal trinkets hanging from the truck's exterior, creating a distinctive and melodic noise as they move. These ornaments are not only decorative but also believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

Jingle trucks are often a canvas for artistic expression, with eye-catching designs that range from intricate hand-painted patterns to colorful motifs and religious symbols. Skilled artists and craftsmen spend hours laboring over the truck's exterior, turning them into moving works of art that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.


These trucks are not only a means of transportation but also serve as a reflection of the driver's personality and beliefs. Many drivers take great pride in their trucks, considering them an extension of their own identity. The competition for the most ornate and well-adorned jingle truck is fierce, with drivers constantly seeking to outdo each other in terms of design and embellishments.


These DIY Jingle truck art project were white office file boxes. We cut the bottoms out, then used that extra cardboard to fashion the cab of the truck. A pair of ribbons tied to the handles of the box acted as suspenders to hold the truck in place. Then we brought TONS of decorating supplies out of our art cabinets.

When the trucks were complete, Hinna Shahid, the author of "My First Jingle Truck" handed out jingle bell bracelets to each driver. Jingle trucks are not just ordinary vehicles; they are a fusion of art, culture, and commerce, representing the heart and soul of the communities they traverse. Their exuberant presence on the roads of South Asia captures the essence of the region's traditions, making them a captivating and delightful sight to behold.









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