The holidays are the perfect time to bond with your family, and nothing beats the joy of crafting together. Arts and crafts not only keep kids entertained but also spark their creativity and imagination.
When it comes to crafting, paper is a timeless and versatile material that’s ideal for projects of all types. From toddlers to teenagers, paper crafts offer fun for every age group—and most require little to no prior skill.
If you're searching for inspiration, look no further! Below is a curated list of 20 easy and exciting paper craft ideas that you and your kids will love creating together.
Essential Tools for Creating Amazing Paper Crafts
To bring your paper craft ideas to life, you need some basic tools. While specifications may vary depending on the project, a few essential craft supplies are a must-have for every paper enthusiast. This includes scissors, glue, tape, and a reliable cutting tool.
For the best crafting experience, consider using These scissors are designed with functionality and safety in mind—perfect for little hands and adult crafters.
Here’s why they’re a standout choice:
- Safety First: The blades are made from zirconium oxide, a durable ceramic that’s safe to touch and lasts significantly longer than traditional metal blades.
- Effortless Cutting: They easily cut through paper and other lightweight materials.
- Comfortable Grip: The soft-touch finger grips ensure a stress-free crafting experience, even during longer projects.
- Lightweight Design: These scissors are easy to handle, making them an excellent option for kids and beginners.
With the right tools, creating cool things with paper becomes an enjoyable and stress-free activity for everyone involved.
What Crafts Can You Make With Paper?
Paper is one of the most versatile materials for crafting, making it perfect for a wide range of creative projects. From colorful decorations to practical items, paper can be transformed into almost anything with a bit of imagination. Kids can make fun and easy crafts like paper chains, origami animals, or handprint art, while adults might enjoy creating intricate 3D models, paper flowers, or custom greeting cards. The possibilities are endless, ensuring there's a paper craft for every skill level and interest.
Holiday-themed crafts are especially popular, allowing you to create festive decorations like paper snowflakes, ornaments, or wreaths. These simple yet charming projects add a personal touch to your home and are a wonderful way to get the whole family involved in holiday preparations. Beyond seasonal crafts, paper can be used for everyday projects such as bookmarks, wall art, or even DIY gift wrap.
Whether you're looking for a quick activity to entertain kids or a more detailed project to challenge your creativity, paper crafts offer endless opportunities for fun and self-expression. With just a few tools and a little inspiration, you can transform ordinary sheets of paper into stunning creations that bring joy and creativity to your home.
1. Sparkling Flamingo Paper Craft
Bring your child’s favorite animal to life with this delightful flamingo paper craft! Perfect for kids who love the vibrant pink bird, this project is easy to make and adds a whimsical touch to any room.
What You’ll Need:
- Pink napkins
- Half a paper plate
- Pink glitter cardboard
- Silver glitter cardboard
- Scissors
- Glue
- Tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Create the Feathers: Cut large squares from the pink napkins. Use tape to secure them onto the half paper plate, arranging them to resemble the layered feathers of a flamingo.
- Shape the Flamingo: From the pink glitter cardboard, cut out the flamingo’s head and neck. Then, cut out the legs, beak, and eye from the silver glitter cardboard.
- Assemble the Flamingo: Attach the head to the top of the half plate and the leg to the bottom using tape. Glue the beak and eye onto the head to complete the flamingo’s face.
And that’s it! Your child now has a sparkling, handmade flamingo they can proudly display in their room or gift to someone special. It’s a fun and creative way to bring their favorite animal to life!
2. DIY Paper Flowers - Craft for Kids
Flowers add beauty and elegance to any space, but real ones often require upkeep and eventually wilt. Why not create paper flowers that last forever? These handmade blooms are not only stylish but also a great way to personalize your decor.
What You’ll Need:
- Scissors
- Craft glue
- Pencil
- Flower template (downloadable online)
- Dowel (optional, for stems)
- Wonder clips (optional, for holding petals in place)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Pieces: Start by downloading and printing a flower template. Use scissors to carefully cut out all the pieces required for your flower, including petals, leaves, and the pistil.
- Shape the Petals: Overlap the flower petals, gluing them together at the base to create a layered effect. Wonder clips can be used to hold the petals in place as the glue dries.
- Build the Flower Layers: Add additional layers of petals by gluing them on top of each other. For stability, place a small, lightweight object like a bowl over the petals while they dry. Continue layering until your flower is full and vibrant. Finish by gluing a yellow circular piece in the center to serve as the pistil.
For added flair, attach your finished flower to a dowel for a stem or use it as part of a larger decorative arrangement. These paper flowers are a chic, everlasting way to brighten up any room!
3. Paper Ball Garland
Looking to add a unique touch to your holiday decorations or brighten up your living room walls? Try making paper garland balls! This simple craft is easy to create and adds a burst of color and charm to any space. Here’s how to make them:
What You’ll Need:
- Scissors
- Glue
- Multicolored paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut the Paper: Begin by cutting your paper into narrow strips. Remember, the longer the strips, the larger your final ball will be.
- Crease the Strips: Lightly fold each strip in half to create a crease at the center, helping you align them perfectly later.
- Form a Base Cross: Glue two strips together at their centers to form a cross. Add two more strips diagonally to create an “x” shape, forming the base structure for your ball.
- Shape the Ball: Gently fold the ends of each strip toward the center, gluing them down to secure the spherical shape. Repeat until all strips are folded into place.
- Create a Garland: Once you’ve made enough balls, thread a strand of yarn through the gaps in each one, stringing them together into a festive garland.
Hang your garland along a mantel, wall, or window to bring vibrant cheer to your space. With a little creativity, this craft is sure to impress!
4. DIY Fruit Slice Bookmarks
Encourage your child’s love for reading with these adorable fruit slice bookmarks! This colorful and practical paper craft is perfect for young bookworms and a fun way to combine creativity with a love of books.
What You’ll Need:
- Craft glue
- Pencil
- Scissors
- Multicolor craft paper
- Printable template (available online)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Make the Origami Corner Bookmark:
- Start with a small square piece of paper and fold it diagonally to create a triangle.
- Fold the top triangle in half by bringing the top corner toward the bottom edge. This forms a small pocket.
- Fold the left and right corners of the triangle upward, aligning them with the top corner. Then, tuck these folded pieces into the pocket to secure the shape.
Prepare the Fruit Slice Components:
- Print a fruit slice template and trace the patterns onto your multicolored craft paper. For example, use pink paper for the center of a watermelon, green for the rind, and black for the seeds. Cut out all the components carefully.
Assemble the Bookmark:
- Attach your fruit slice components to the white origami bookmark base. Layer the pieces to create a vibrant and realistic look—such as arranging seeds on the pink center and attaching it to the green rind.
With these fun fruit slice bookmarks, your kids can add a splash of color to their reading sessions. Not only are they practical, but they also make for thoughtful handmade gifts for fellow book lovers!
5. DIY Paper Wreath for Kids
Elevate your home decor with this charming paper wreath! Perfect for holidays or everyday use, this craft is a fun and creative way to personalize your front door or any room in your home.
What You’ll Need:
- Styrofoam wreath
- Scissors
- Adhesive
- 3-4 sheets of patterned paper
- Paper trimmer
- Xyron Creative Station with permanent refill
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Paper Strips:Use your paper trimmer to cut the patterned paper into even strips. These will form the decorative loops on your wreath.
- Run Strips Through the Creative Station:Feed several strips through the Xyron Creative Station side by side, ensuring the decorative side faces up. This process adds adhesive to the strips, making them easy to attach.
- Attach Strips to the Wreath:Remove the strips from the machine and peel off the backing. Loosely loop each strip around the Styrofoam wreath and press the ends together before securing the loop to itself. Repeat this process until the entire wreath is covered.
- Add Ribbon Detailing:Trim the ends of each strip into a “V” shape to mimic ribbons. For an extra decorative touch, embellish the wreath with photos, small ornaments, or other creative decorations to make it uniquely yours.
Hang your finished paper wreath on your door or wall to add a personalized and colorful statement to your space. It’s an easy, customizable craft that’s sure to impress year-round!
6. DIY 3D Paper Stars Kids
These dazzling 3D paper stars are the perfect craft to bring some sparkle to any special occasion. Whether you're celebrating a holiday, birthday, or just adding a fun touch to your home decor, these stars are easy to make and look stunning.
What You’ll Need:
- Colored cardstock
- Colorful coated cardstock
- Cricut Scoring Wheel
- 3D Stars Template
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Access the Template:Open Cricut Design Space and find the 3D Star files. The software will recommend the appropriate scoring tool based on the material you're using. For regular cardstock, you might need a Single Scoring Wheel, while coated cardstock may require a Double Scoring Wheel.
- Prepare Your Cricut Machine:Insert the appropriate scoring wheel into your Cricut machine and load your chosen cardstock. The machine will automatically cut out the star shapes based on the template.
- Assemble Your Stars:Once the stars are cut, carefully fold along the scored lines. This will give them their 3D shape. Display your finished stars as decorations for a touch of magic and glam!
These 3D stars are an easy, high-impact project that adds a fun and festive flair to any space. Whether hung from the ceiling or used as table decor, they’ll surely shine bright at your next celebration.
7. DIY Toilet Roll Creatures for Kids
What You’ll Need:
- Toilet paper rolls
- Scissors
- Glue
Optional Supplies:
- Googly eyes
- Tissue paper
- Multicolored construction paper
- Pipe cleaners
- Foil
- Pom pom balls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Unleash Creativity:The sky’s the limit with toilet roll creatures! Let your child’s imagination guide them as they create anything from butterflies, ants, and aliens to robots or their very own invented creature. Start by cutting and gluing different materials onto the roll—like colorful construction paper for bodies, pipe cleaners for legs or antennae, and pom poms for eyes.
- Assemble the Creature:Use googly eyes, tissue paper, and other decorative items to give each creature personality. Whether your child designs a friendly butterfly or a quirky alien, this craft is all about fun and imagination.
- Showcase Your Creations:Once your creatures are finished, they make a great display on a shelf or can even be used in storytelling games to encourage further creativity.
Toilet roll creatures are a simple, eco-friendly way to keep kids engaged and creative. Plus, it’s a fun way to recycle and reuse materials while making adorable creatures that are sure to bring smiles!
8. DIY Beaded Paper Butterflie Craft for Kids
Bring some springtime cheer to your home with these delicate and colorful beaded paper butterflies. Not only will this craft brighten your space, but it’s also a perfect project for you and your kids to enjoy together.
What You’ll Need:
- Scissors
- Assorted beads
- Scrapbook paper
- Craft wire
- Optional: Paper scorer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut Out the Butterfly Wings:Begin by cutting out the wings of your butterfly from scrapbook paper. You can trace a butterfly design from online templates for accuracy or create your own unique shape.
- Score the Wings:Use a paper scorer to create one-inch parallel lines across each wing. This will help with the folding and give the wings texture.
- Accordion Fold the Wings:Fold the wings in an accordion style along the scored lines. This will add dimension and a beautiful, layered effect to your butterfly.
- Assemble the Butterfly:Pinch the middle of the wings together and bind them with craft wire. Leave some excess wire protruding to form the butterfly’s antennas. You can also add beads to the antennas for a more decorative touch.
These beaded paper butterflies are a delightful way to decorate your home and welcome the season of renewal. Hang them in windows, on walls, or use them as part of a spring-themed centerpiece to add an extra pop of color and whimsy to your space.
9. DIY Paper Chain Snake Craft for Kids
Who says snakes have to be scary? With this adorable paper chain snake, you and your kids can create a cute and colorful reptile that’s perfect for playtime or decoration. This simple craft is a great way to keep little ones engaged while boosting their creativity.
What You’ll Need:
- Construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Felt tip markers
- Printable snake template (head, eyes, tongue, tail, top, tummy, and sides)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut Out the Snake Parts:Begin by cutting out the pieces for your snake from the printable template. Create a paper chain by alternating the “top” and “tummy” pieces with the “side” pieces. When gluing the top and tummy parts, apply the glue to the underside, while for the sides, glue the back of the pieces.
- Color the Features:Use your felt tip markers to color in the tongue and eyes, making your snake come to life! Once colored, glue them onto the snake’s head.
- Assemble the Snake:Fold the tab on the head and tail of your paper chain, then connect them to form the snake’s body.
And just like that, your fun and friendly paper chain snake is ready for play! It’s a fantastic craft for kids, combining creativity, hands-on work, and hours of fun afterward.
10. DIY Paper Beads for Kids
Did you know you can create beautiful beads from paper? This simple and fun project is a fantastic way to recycle old paper while making something beautiful and useful. Whether you're making jewelry or embellishing accessories, these paper beads are a versatile craft that will keep everyone entertained.
What You’ll Need:
- Multicolored origami paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Skewer sticks
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Paper:Cut the origami paper into long isosceles triangles. The size and angle of the triangles will determine the shape of your beads.
- Make the Beads:Starting from the wide end of the triangle, tightly roll the paper around the skewer stick. Once you reach the narrow end, add a small dab of glue to secure the bead in place.
- Get Creative:Now that your beads are ready, get creative! You can add glitter for extra sparkle, thread them onto string to make necklaces or bracelets, or attach safety pins to use them as fun accessories on jackets and backpacks.
Paper beads are a great way to recycle, get creative, and make personalized jewelry or accessories. This craft is perfect for kids and adults alike and can be customized in so many ways!
11. DIY 3D Picture Frame Craft for Kids
Create a beautiful and personalized 3D picture frame with your kids to showcase your favorite photos. This craft is easy, enjoyable, and a great way to preserve memories with a fun, creative twist.
What You’ll Need:
- Scissors
- Pencils
- Multicolored cardstock
- Picture frame template
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Picture Frame:Print your picture frame template onto multicolored cardstock. Choose your favorite colors for a vibrant frame.
- Cut Out the Frame:Cut along the edges of the template, leaving the square corners to create your frame.
- Decorate the Frame:Let the kids get creative! They can use markers, colored pencils, or stickers to decorate the frame. The possibilities are endless for adding personal touches to the design.
- Add the 3D Effect:To give the frame a 3D look, tightly wrap each edge around a pencil, ensuring the pattern faces upward. Once rolled, carefully slide the pencil out to maintain the shape, giving your frame a pop-out effect.
Now your 3D picture frame is ready to display a treasured memory! This craft is a fun family project and results in a unique, colorful frame that adds charm and personality to any photo.
12. DIY Paper Hot Air Balloon for Kids
Take your kids on an imaginative adventure with these fun and colorful paper hot air balloons. This craft allows them to explore their creativity while learning about 3D shapes. It’s an easy, delightful project perfect for quality family time.
What You’ll Need:
- Scissors
- Glue stick
- 3D hot air balloon template
- White paper
- Tacky glue
- Baker’s twine
- Multicolored paper
- Tan cardstock
- Light blue cardstock
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Balloon Pieces:Print out the hot air balloon template. You can either print it directly onto the multicolored paper of your choice or on white paper to trace it onto colorful paper later. Cut out the five balloon shapes from the template.
- Create the Balloon Basket:Cut out the square from the template that represents the balloon basket. Use it to trace and cut out a matching shape from tan cardstock. Set it aside for later.
- Fold the Balloons:Fold each balloon shape in half along the dotted line in the center of the template.
- Assemble the 3D Balloon:Glue one folded balloon onto the light blue cardstock, then layer another balloon on top of it. Continue gluing the balloons together until all five are stacked, creating a 3D effect.
- Add Clouds:Cut out cloud shapes from white paper and glue them around the balloon scene on the light blue cardstock.
- Attach the Basket Ropes:Glue the baker’s twine to the bottom of the balloon, creating the illusion of ropes leading to the basket.
- Finish the Balloon:Glue the tan cardstock basket to the end of the baker’s twine, making it look as though it’s suspended beneath the balloons.
Now you have a charming paper hot air balloon scene to hang up or display, perfect for sparking imagination and adding a whimsical touch to any room.
13. DIY Paper Ice Cream Banner Craft for Kids
If you're craving a cool treat but can't indulge just yet, why not craft your own paper ice cream banner? This colorful, playful project is a fun way to bring a touch of summer indoors and is perfect for parties or adding a festive flair to any space.
What You’ll Need:
- Multicolored patterned cardstock (preferably pastel colors)
- Foam tape
- Hot glue
- Hole punch
- Scoring board
- Pink yarn
- Scissors
- Tan/brown paper for the cones and cherry stems
- Printable ice cream cone template
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut Out the Cones:Print out the ice cream cone template and cut out the cone shapes from tan or brown paper.
- Create the Ice Cream Scoops:To make the ice cream scoops, cut 1.5 by 11-inch strips from the patterned cardstock. Use the scoring board to score the strips every ¼ inch. Accordion fold the strips and glue the ends together to form a loop, creating a rosette shape.
- Secure the Scoop:Cut a small square of paper and hot glue it to the center of the rosette. Press it down to ensure it sticks. Once the glue dries, add a matching circle of patterned paper to the top of the rosette to complete the scoop look.
- Assemble the Ice Cream Cones:Hot glue the rosettes (your ice cream scoops) to the top of the cone shapes. Add little cherries to the tops of the scoops for a sweet finishing touch.
- Create the Banner:Cut a circle from cardstock and punch two holes in it. Use foam tape to attach the circle to the back of each ice cream cone. String pink yarn through the holes, and hang the banner where it can brighten up the room!
This paper ice cream banner is perfect for birthday parties, summer decorations, or simply to add a whimsical touch to your space. It’s a fun, creative way to capture the joy of summer without the calories!
14. DIY Paper Pinwheels Craft for Kids
What You’ll Need:
- Hot glue gun
- Wooden dowels
- Small brads
- Red, white, and blue paper (metallic paper for a shiny finish)
- Cutting machine like Cricut Explore (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut Out the Pinwheel Pieces:Start by cutting out the pinwheel shapes using the template provided (or a cutting machine like Cricut). Make sure to cut out all the pieces needed for your pinwheel.
- Assemble the Pinwheel:Bring each of the outer holes towards the center of the paper. You should have one hole on each side of the pinwheel. Insert a small brad through all the holes, then open the brad's clasp to secure the pinwheel in place.
- Attach the Pinwheel to the Dowels:Using a hot glue gun, glue a wooden dowel to the back of the pinwheel to serve as the handle.
Now you’ve got beautiful, festive pinwheels that will add a lively touch to your celebrations. They’re great for outdoor parties, decorating your space, or even as fun party favors!
15. DIY Rainbow Paper Chain Wall Hanging Craft for Kids
What You’ll Need:
- Rainbow template
- Scissors
- Dowel
- String
- Multicolored cardstock (tan, light pink, coral, mustard yellow, and any other colors you desire)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Design Your Rainbow:Begin by mapping out your rainbow design using the rainbow template provided. The template features squares representing two links per square, but if you want a smaller design, you can reduce this to just one link per square.
- Cut the Strips:Cut strips of multicolored cardstock, approximately 6 inches long and 1 inch wide, following the colors of the rainbow. You can choose the colors that match your décor or mix it up for a unique effect.
- Make the Paper Chains:Form loops by bending each strip of paper into a ring and gluing the ends together to secure them. Then, link each loop together to form a chain, using the rainbow template for guidance.
- Hang Your Rainbow:Once your rows of rainbow chains are complete, slide the tops of the chains onto a dowel. Secure a sturdy string to the dowel and use it to hang your colorful creation.
This rainbow paper chain wall hanging is an easy, vibrant way to add personality to any room. It's a wonderful project for kids, and it can be customized with any color scheme you like!
16. DIY Paper Napkin Holder Craft for Kids
Instead of buying expensive napkin holders, why not create a custom one with your own hands? This simple and fun paper craft allows you to make a practical napkin holder, adding a personal touch to your table setting. Plus, it's a great project for kids to join in on the fun!
What You’ll Need:
- Multicolored construction paper (at least two different colors)
- Scissors
- Glue stick
- Toilet paper roll
- Tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Paper:Cut a rectangular piece of construction paper, large enough to wrap around a toilet paper roll. Choose a color that suits your style. Fold the paper lengthwise, then cut 5-6 slits from the fold, leaving a 2-centimeter gap at the end.
- Weave the Strips:Next, cut strips of construction paper in a different color than the one used for the base. These strips should be the same width as the slits you just made. Weave the strips in and out of the slits, just like a basket weave.
- Assemble the Napkin Holder:Once the weaving is complete, glue the ends of the strips together. Then, wrap the woven paper around the toilet paper roll and secure it with tape. Now, you’ve got a cute, handmade napkin holder that’s perfect for your next dinner or party!
This paper napkin holder is not only a practical craft but also a great way to recycle and create something functional with minimal effort. It’s a creative addition to any table setting!
17. DIY Creative Collage Craft for Kids
What You’ll Need:
- Paper plate
- Strings of beads
- Scissors
- Scraps of construction paper
- Glue
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Paper Plate:Start by cutting a paper plate in half. Then, take your scraps of construction paper and glue them onto the half plate to create a colorful base for your jellyfish. You can use any colors you like or mix and match for a fun, vibrant look.
- Add the Eyes:Cut out two circles from construction paper to form the jellyfish’s eyes. Glue them onto the paper plate, positioning them wherever you like to bring your jellyfish to life!
- Create the Tentacles:For the jellyfish's tentacles, you can get creative! Use strings of beads or ribbon and glue them to the bottom of the plate. These will give the jellyfish its iconic, flowing look.
This collage project allows kids to experiment with colors, textures, and materials, making it a great outlet for self-expression. Plus, it's easy and fun to do with just a few simple supplies!
18. Cake Topper Paper Chain Craft for Kids
Add a personal, handmade touch to your child’s birthday cake with this fun and colorful paper chain cake topper. It's a simple yet effective way to elevate your cake and make it stand out. Plus, your child can help craft the decoration, making it a fun project for both of you to enjoy!
What You’ll Need:
- Scissors
- Construction paper (multiple colors)
- 2 bamboo skewers
- Craft glue
- Tweezers
- Ruler
- 2 mini clothespins
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut and Form Paper Chains:Start by cutting 1 by ¼ inch strips of multicolored construction paper. Use your tweezers to apply a dab of glue to one end of the strip and form a loop, holding it for 6 seconds to dry. Repeat this process, alternating colors, until your chain reaches 16 inches.
- Create a Smaller Chain:Using the same method, form a smaller chain of approximately 13 inches. This will be placed above the larger chain for a layered effect.
- Prepare the Bamboo Skewers:Cut two bamboo skewers to a length of 9 inches each. These will hold the paper chains in place.
- Create the Fringe Tassels:Cut three small rectangles from different colored paper: one measuring 1 by 3 inches, one measuring 1 by ¾ inches, and the last one 1 by ¼ inches. Snip fringe into each rectangle along one long edge.
- Attach the Tassels to the Skewers:Apply a dab of glue to the bottom of the largest rectangle and wrap it around the top of each skewer. Make sure the fringe is facing outward. Repeat this with the smaller rectangles in descending order.
- Assemble the Cake Topper:Lay the two bamboo skewers parallel, about 8 inches apart. Position the smaller paper chain on top of the larger one, allowing the chains to hang loosely. Use the mini clothespins to attach the chains under the fringe on each skewer, securing them in place.
Once complete, you'll have a charming, colorful cake topper that will make your child’s cake look even more festive and fun!
