Toilet Paper Roll Crafts for Kids

20+ Toilet Paper Roll Crafts for Kids: Unleashing Creativity and Fun

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Upcycling, the art of giving new life to old materials, is not just good for the environment; it’s also a fantastic way to engage kids in creative and fun activities. And what better material to upcycle than the humble toilet paper roll? These versatile tubes offer endless possibilities for crafting, sparking imagination and fostering fine motor skills.

Today, we’ll explore 20+ exciting toilet paper roll crafts that are perfect for kids of all ages. From adorable animal creations to imaginative play tools, these projects are sure to keep your little ones entertained and engaged.

1. Adorable Animal Crafts:

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Let’s start with some adorable animal friends! Choose your favorite animal, be it a majestic lion, a wise owl, or a playful elephant, and gather the following materials:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Acrylic paints in various colors
  • Paintbrushes
  • Googly eyes
  • Markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the toilet paper roll: Depending on your chosen animal, you might need to cut the roll in half or adjust its shape slightly.
  2. Paint the base: Use acrylic paints to color the toilet paper roll in the animal’s primary color. Let it dry completely.
  3. Add details: Once dry, use markers and paint to add specific details like facial features, stripes, or fur patterns.
  4. Attach the googly eyes: Glue the googly eyes onto the appropriate spot to bring your animal to life.
  5. Extra embellishments: Feel free to add further details using paper scraps, felt, or other craft materials to personalize your creation.

Variations:

  • Create a whole zoo of animals! Explore different colors and textures to represent various creatures.
  • Use cardboard scraps to create additional features like ears, tails, or wings.
  • String your animal creations together to make a mobile.

2. Explore the World with Binoculars:

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Get ready for some pretend play adventures with these DIY binoculars! Gather the following materials:

  • Two toilet paper rolls
  • String or yarn
  • Clear plastic wrap or cellophane
  • Tape
  • Markers or paint (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Connect the rolls: Cut one end of each toilet paper roll diagonally to create a lens-like shape.
  2. Attach the lenses: Secure the plastic wrap or cellophane over the diagonal ends of the rolls using tape.
  3. Join the rolls: Tie the string or yarn securely around the middle of each roll, connecting them to form the binoculars.
  4. Decorate (optional): Use markers or paint to add fun designs or patterns to your binoculars.

Tips:

  • Use different colors of plastic wrap for each lens for a more playful look.
  • Punch holes on the sides of the rolls and thread the string through for a more secure connection.
  • Add a small strap or loop for easy carrying.

3. Stamping Fun with Toilet Paper Rolls:

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Transform your toilet paper rolls into creative stamping tools! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Acrylic paints in various colors
  • Paintbrushes
  • Paper or fabric
  • Scissors

Instructions:

  1. Cut the rolls: Cut the toilet paper rolls into different shapes and patterns like stars, hearts, circles, or even animal footprints.
  2. Paint the stamps: Apply paint to the cut edges of the toilet paper roll shapes.
  3. Get stamping: Press the painted shapes onto your paper or fabric to create unique patterns and designs.
  4. Experiment: Try different colors and combinations to create a variety of effects.

Tips:

  • Use washable paints for easy cleanup.
  • You can also use other materials like sponges or leaves as alternative stamping tools.
  • Explore different stamping techniques like layering colors or using negative space.

4. Blast Off with a Toilet Paper Roll Rocket:

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Let’s take a trip to space with a DIY rocket! Gather the following materials:

  • Toilet paper roll
  • Cardboard (cereal box or similar)
  • Construction paper in various colors
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Markers or paint

Instructions:

  1. Create the rocket body: Cut the cardboard into a cone shape and glue it to the top of the toilet paper roll to form the rocket body.
  2. Add fins: Cut triangles from the construction paper and glue them to the bottom of the rocket body as fins for stability.
  3. Decorate: Use construction paper, markers, or paint to decorate your rocket with flames, windows, or other details.
  4. Launch pad (optional): Create a simple launch pad using cardboard or a shoebox.

Tips:

  • Add a small loop of string or yarn to the top of the rocket for hanging or attaching to a toy parachute.
  • Use different colors and textures of construction paper for a more creative look.
  • Encourage imaginative play by creating a space-themed scene with planets, stars, and other space objects.

5. Mini Constellations: Light Up the Night:

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Bring the magic of the night sky into your home with these mini constellations! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Glow-in-the-dark paint or glow-in-the-dark stars
  • Scissors
  • Black paint (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Paint the rolls: If using glow-in-the-dark paint, apply it to the inside of the toilet paper roll. Alternatively, paint the roll black and then add glow-in-the-dark stars for a more starry effect.
  2. Create constellations: Use a punch tool or a sharp knife to punch out small holes in the toilet paper roll, forming the shapes of constellations like the Big Dipper or Orion.
  3. Display: Hang your mini constellations in a dark room to enjoy the glowing starry sky.

Tips:

  • Research different constellations and their shapes for inspiration.
  • Use different sizes of holes to create a more realistic starry effect.
  • Combine your mini constellations with other space-themed crafts for a complete night sky experience.

6. Make a Splash with a Car Wash:

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Get ready for some pretend car wash fun! Gather the following materials:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Cardboard box (optional)
  • Paint and markers (optional)
  • Small container
  • Water
  • Toy cars
  • Sponges

Instructions:

  1. Create the car wash tunnel: Cut the toilet paper rolls in half and arrange them vertically to form a tunnel. You can also use a cardboard box to create a more elaborate car wash structure.
  2. Decorate (optional): Use paint and markers to decorate the car wash tunnel with colorful signs, stripes, or other details.
  3. Fill the container with water: Place the container at the end of the car wash tunnel to represent a water pool.
  4. Car wash time!: Get your toy cars and sponges ready! Drive the cars through the tunnel, dipping them in the water and using the sponges to clean them up.

Tips:

  • Add small brushes or scrubbers to the car wash for additional cleaning tools.
  • Create different car wash stations with different cleaning methods, like a drying station or a tire shine station.
  • Encourage imaginative play by creating a whole car wash scene with traffic cones, gas pumps, and other car wash accessories.

7. Personalized Nameplate: A Creative Touch:

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Let’s make a special nameplate using a toilet paper roll! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper roll
  • Acrylic paints in various colors
  • Paintbrushes
  • Markers
  • Glue
  • Ribbon or string (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Paint the roll: Choose a base color for your nameplate and paint the entire toilet paper roll. Let it dry completely.
  2. Add the name: Use markers or paint to write your child’s name in a bold and colorful font.
  3. Decorate: Add further embellishments like flowers, stars, or other designs using paint, markers, or even glitter.
  4. Attach a hanger (optional): Glue a piece of ribbon or string to the back of the nameplate for hanging.

Tips:

  • Use different colors and patterns to personalize the nameplate.
  • You can also add the child’s initials, nickname, or a favorite quote.
  • This nameplate can be used to decorate their bedroom door, desk, or play area.

These are just a few ideas to get you started with toilet paper roll crafts for kids. With a little imagination and creativity, the possibilities are endless! Encourage your children to explore different materials, techniques, and designs to express their unique personalities and discover the joy of crafting.

Bonus Tips:

  • Preparing the toilet paper rolls: Before starting any craft, you might need to cut the rolls in half, adjust their shape, or flatten them slightly. This will depend on the specific project.
  • Printable templates: For some crafts, you can find printable templates online that can be used as a guide for cutting out specific shapes or patterns.
  • Safety first: Always supervise young children when using scissors, paint, or other crafting tools.

8. Dancing Puppets:

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Bring some theatrical magic to life with these adorable dancing puppets! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Construction paper in various colors
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Markers
  • String or yarn
  • Wooden dowels (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Create the puppets: Cut the toilet paper rolls in half to create shorter puppet bodies.
  2. Design the characters: Use construction paper to cut out heads, arms, legs, and other features for your puppets. Glue them onto the toilet paper roll bodies.
  3. Add details: Use markers to draw facial features, clothing, and other details on your puppets.
  4. Attach strings: Tie a piece of string or yarn to the top of each puppet head for control. You can also attach them to wooden dowels for easier handling.

Tips:

  • Experiment with different materials for the puppet features, like felt, fabric scraps, or buttons.
  • Create a whole puppet show with a stage and backdrop made from cardboard boxes or fabric.
  • Encourage storytelling and imaginative play with your puppet creations.

9. Light-Up Mason Jar:

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Transform a simple mason jar into a magical nightlight with the help of toilet paper rolls! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Mason jar
  • Tissue paper in various colors
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • LED tea lights

Instructions:

  1. Cut the rolls: Cut the toilet paper rolls into thin strips.
  2. Decorate the jar: Apply glue to the outside of the mason jar and carefully stick the toilet paper roll strips onto it, creating a layered effect. You can use different colors and patterns for a more vibrant look.
  3. Add the light: Place an LED tea light inside the decorated jar for a soft and warm glow.

Tips:

  • Use different sizes and shapes of tissue paper for a more textured look.
  • You can also add glitter, sequins, or other embellishments to the jar for extra sparkle.
  • This craft is perfect for creating a calming atmosphere in a child’s bedroom.

10. Cardboard Tube Octopus:

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Dive into the underwater world with this playful octopus craft! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls (multiple)
  • Cardboard box (optional)
  • Paint and markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Googly eyes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Create the body: Cut the toilet paper rolls in half to form the octopus’s legs. You can use multiple rolls for a larger octopus.
  2. Attach the legs: Glue the toilet paper roll legs to a central point, like a cardboard circle or the bottom of a cardboard box, to create the octopus’s body.
  3. Decorate: Paint or color the octopus body and legs. You can also add googly eyes and other details like a mouth and tentacles.
  4. Habitat (optional): Create a simple underwater scene using cardboard, paint, and other materials to display your octopus.

Tips:

  • Use different colors and patterns for each leg to create a vibrant octopus.
  • You can add wiggle eyes or pipe cleaners for extra movement and personality.
  • This craft is a great opportunity to learn about different sea creatures and their habitats.

11. Kaleidoscope Symmetry:

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Explore the wonders of symmetry with this mesmerizing kaleidoscope! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls (2)
  • Transparent plastic sheet (cut to size)
  • Colorful beads, sequins, or small objects
  • Glue
  • Tape
  • Decorative paper (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Connect the rolls: Cut one end of each toilet paper roll diagonally to create a triangular shape. Connect the two rolls with the triangular ends facing each other, forming a tube.
  2. Add the plastic: Secure the transparent plastic sheet over one end of the tube using tape.
  3. Fill with colorful elements: Add beads, sequins, or other small objects inside the tube, creating a visually appealing pattern.
  4. Decorate (optional): Wrap the outside of the tube with decorative paper for a finished look.

Tips:

  • Experiment with different materials and colors inside the kaleidoscope to create unique patterns.
  • You can also use different sizes of toilet paper rolls for a larger or smaller kaleidoscope.
  • This craft is a fun way to learn about basic geometric shapes and the concept of symmetry.

12. Feelings Friend:

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Create a cuddly companion to help kids express their emotions with this “feelings friend” craft! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper roll
  • Construction paper in various colors
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Markers
  • Felt scraps (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Create the face: Cut out different facial expressions from construction paper, like happy, sad, angry, and surprised.
  2. Attach the faces: Glue the different facial expressions onto the toilet paper roll, creating a movable face.
  3. Body and details: Use construction paper or felt scraps to add a body, arms, and other features to your “feelings friend.”
  4. Express emotions: Encourage children to use their “feelings friend” to express and discuss their emotions in a safe and playful way.

Tips:

  • You can also create different characters with different personalities and emotions.
  • Use this craft as a tool to help children identify and manage their feelings.
  • Encourage storytelling and imaginative play with your “feelings friend” creations.

13. Mini Desk Organizer:

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Keep your child’s desk tidy and organized with this handy mini organizer made from toilet paper rolls! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls (multiple)
  • Cardboard box (optional)
  • Paint and markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Decorative paper (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the rolls: Cut the toilet paper rolls to different heights depending on the desired size of each compartment.
  2. Assemble the organizer: Glue the toilet paper rolls together side-by-side to create a multi-compartment organizer.
  3. Decorate: Paint or decorate the organizer with colorful patterns or designs. You can also use decorative paper to cover the cardboard.
  4. Organize and store: Use the compartments to store pens, pencils, crayons, markers, and other small desk items.

Tips:

  • You can add labels to each compartment for easy identification.
  • Create a set of matching organizers for different purposes, like a craft supply organizer or a toy storage solution.
  • This craft is a fun way to teach children about organization and keeping their workspace tidy.

Remember: These are just a few ideas to get you started. With a little creativity and imagination, the possibilities for toilet paper roll crafts are endless! Encourage your children to explore different materials, techniques, and designs to express their unique personalities and discover the joy of crafting.

14. Adorable Bird Feeders:

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Attract feathered friends to your backyard with these charming bird feeders! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Peanut butter
  • Birdseed
  • String or yarn
  • Twigs (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Spread the peanut butter: Generously spread peanut butter on the outside of the toilet paper roll.
  2. Add the birdseed: Roll the peanut butter-coated roll in birdseed, ensuring it’s completely covered.
  3. Hang it up: Tie a piece of string or yarn to the top of the roll and hang it from a tree branch or other suitable location.
  4. Optional embellishments: You can add twigs or other natural materials to decorate your bird feeders.

Tips:

  • Use different types of birdseed to attract a wider variety of birds.
  • Hang the feeders in a sheltered location away from direct sunlight and rain.
  • Observe and enjoy the different birds that visit your feeders.

15. Colorful Wind Chimes:

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Create a symphony of sound with these vibrant wind chimes! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls (multiple)
  • Paint and markers
  • Scissors
  • Bells or small wind chimes
  • String or yarn
  • Sticks or dowels (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Decorate the rolls: Paint and decorate the toilet paper rolls in various colors and patterns.
  2. Cut and attach: Cut the decorated rolls into different lengths. Tie bells or small wind chimes to the bottom of each roll using string or yarn.
  3. Assemble the wind chimes: Attach the decorated rolls with bells to a stick or dowel using string or yarn at different heights.
  4. Hang it up: Find a suitable location outdoors, like a porch or a tree branch, and hang your wind chimes to enjoy the gentle sounds.

Tips:

  • Use different sizes and shapes of toilet paper rolls for a more interesting look.
  • Add beads, ribbons, or other embellishments for extra visual appeal.
  • Experiment with different materials for the bells or wind chimes to create unique sounds.

16. Miniature Treasure Chests:

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Spark imaginative play with these adorable miniature treasure chests! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Cardboard scraps
  • Paint and markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Small trinkets or treasures (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Create the base: Cut the toilet paper rolls in half to form the chest’s base. You can also use cardboard scraps to create a more elaborate chest shape.
  2. Decorate the chest: Paint and decorate the chest base and lid with desired colors and patterns.
  3. Add details: Cut out and glue small cardboard shapes like hinges, handles, and locks for a more realistic look.
  4. Fill with treasures (optional): Add small trinkets, beads, or other small treasures to your chest for imaginative play.

Tips:

  • Use metallic paint or glitter for a more treasure-like appearance.
  • Create a set of miniature chests in different sizes and colors.
  • Encourage storytelling and pretend play with your treasure chests.

17. DIY Marble Maze:

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Challenge your child’s problem-solving skills with this exciting marble maze! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls (multiple)
  • Cardboard box
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Marbles

Instructions:

  1. Design the maze: Cut the toilet paper rolls into various lengths and shapes.
  2. Create the path: Glue the toilet paper rolls onto the inside of the cardboard box, creating a winding path for the marble to roll through.
  3. Add obstacles (optional): Cut out additional cardboard shapes or use other materials to create obstacles and challenges within the maze.
  4. Test and play: Start with a simple marble maze and gradually increase the complexity as your child masters it.

Tips:

  • Decorate the cardboard box with paint, markers, or stickers to create a more engaging maze environment.
  • Use different sizes and colors of marbles for added fun.
  • Encourage experimentation and problem-solving as your child navigates the maze.

18. Nature Stamping:

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Explore the beauty of nature through this creative stamping activity! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Paint
  • Leaves, flowers, or other natural objects
  • Paper or fabric

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the stamps: Cut the toilet paper rolls into desired shapes or leave them whole.
  2. Apply paint: Dip the toilet paper rolls or natural objects in paint.
  3. Get stamping: Press the painted toilet paper rolls or natural objects onto paper or fabric to create unique nature-inspired prints.

Tips:

  • Use different types of paint for varying effects.
  • Experiment with different natural objects like shells, pine cones, or feathers.
  • Create a collection of nature-stamped artwork to display or use for other craft projects.

19. DIY Party Blowers:

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Get the party started with these festive and fun DIY party blowers! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Tissue paper in various colors
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Ribbons or streamers (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cut the rolls: Cut the toilet paper rolls to desired lengths.
  2. Decorate with tissue paper: Cut tissue paper into squares or strips and wrap them around the toilet paper roll, securing them with tape.
  3. Add embellishments (optional): Tie ribbons or streamers to the ends of the blowers for extra flair.
  4. Blow and celebrate: Use your DIY party blowers to add excitement to any celebration.

Tips:

  • Create different color combinations and patterns for a vibrant look.
  • Make a set of blowers for the whole party to enjoy.
  • Encourage imaginative play and pretend celebrations with your DIY party blowers.

20. Miniature Pencil Holders:

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Keep your child’s desk organized and colorful with these cute and functional pencil holders! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Paint and markers
  • Scissors
  • Decorative paper (optional)
  • Buttons, beads, or other embellishments (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Decorate the rolls: Paint and decorate the toilet paper rolls in desired colors and patterns.
  2. Cut and fold (optional): You can cut the rolls in half or fold them into different shapes for a more unique look.
  3. Embellish (optional): Add buttons, beads, or other embellishments to personalize your pencil holders.
  4. Organize and store: Use these miniature pencil holders to store pens, pencils, crayons, and other writing utensils.

Tips:

  • Create a set of pencil holders in different sizes and colors for a coordinated look.
  • Label each holder with the type of writing utensil it’s meant for.
  • Encourage children to keep their workspace tidy and organized with their DIY pencil holders.

21. DIY Party Horns:

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Add some noise to the celebration with these fun and easy party horns! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Construction paper
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Ribbons or streamers (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cut and fold: Cut the construction paper into large triangles. Fold each triangle into a cone shape and secure it with tape.
  2. Attach to the roll: Tape the narrow end of the cone to the open end of the toilet paper roll.
  3. Decorate (optional): Add ribbons, streamers, or other embellishments to the party horns.
  4. Blow and celebrate: Use your DIY party horns to add excitement to any celebration.

Tips:

  • Create different color combinations and patterns for a vibrant look.
  • Make a set of party horns for the whole party to enjoy.
  • Encourage imaginative play and pretend celebrations with your DIY party horns.

22. Miniature Drums:

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Get your kids grooving with these simple yet fun miniature drums! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Balloons
  • Rubber bands
  • Markers or paint (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Stretch the balloon: Stretch a balloon over one end of the toilet paper roll, securing it tightly with a rubber band.
  2. Decorate (optional): Use markers or paint to decorate the drum body and balloon head.
  3. Drumming time!: Use your fingers or small sticks to tap on the stretched balloon to create drum sounds.

Tips:

  • Experiment with different sizes and colors of balloons for varying sounds.
  • Create a set of drums in different sizes for a drum kit.
  • Encourage children to explore rhythm and music with their DIY drums.

23. DIY Fortune Teller:

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Spark curiosity and imagination with this fun and interactive fortune teller! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls (2)
  • Cardboard scraps
  • Markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Small trinkets or fortunes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Create the base: Cut the cardboard scraps into circles or squares for the base of the fortune teller.
  2. Assemble the rolls: Glue the two toilet paper rolls together at right angles, forming a cross shape.
  3. Label and decorate: Divide each roll into sections and write fortunes or messages on them. You can also use markers to decorate the base and rolls.
  4. Add embellishments (optional): Add small trinkets or charms to the fortune teller for a more whimsical look.
  5. Tell fortunes: Fold the rolls in different ways and reveal the hidden messages for a fun fortune-telling experience.

Tips:

  • Create different fortunes and messages based on your child’s interests and imagination.
  • Use colorful markers and decorations to make the fortune teller visually appealing.
  • Encourage storytelling and pretend play with your DIY fortune teller.

24. DIY Roller Stampers:

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Create unique and repetitive patterns with these easy-to-make roller stampers! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Craft foam or cardboard
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Paint

Instructions:

  1. Cut the shapes: Cut out desired shapes from the craft foam or cardboard.
  2. Attach to the roll: Glue the cut-out shapes onto the side of the toilet paper roll.
  3. Paint and stamp: Apply paint to the raised shapes and press them onto paper or fabric to create repeating patterns.

Tips:

  • Experiment with different shapes and sizes for various patterns.
  • Use different colors of paint to create vibrant designs.
  • Create a collection of roller stampers with different shapes and patterns for endless creative possibilities.

25. DIY Paper Lanterns:

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Light up the night with these festive and colorful paper lanterns! You’ll need:

  • Toilet paper rolls
  • Tissue paper in various colors
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • String or yarn
  • LED tea lights (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cut the tissue paper: Cut the tissue paper into squares or strips.
  2. Cover the roll: Apply glue to the outside of the toilet paper roll and carefully stick the tissue paper squares or strips onto it, creating a layered effect.
  3. Add a handle (optional): Attach a string or yarn to the top of the lantern for hanging.
  4. Light it up (optional): Place an LED tea light inside the lantern for a soft and warm glow.

Tips:

  • Use different colors and patterns of tissue paper for a vibrant look.
  • You can also decorate the lanterns with glitter, sequins, or other embellishments.
  • These lanterns are perfect for creating a festive atmosphere at home or for outdoor gatherings.

Wrapping Up

Remember, these are just a starting point! With a little imagination and creativity, the possibilities for toilet paper roll crafts are endless. Encourage your children to explore different materials, techniques, and designs to express their unique personalities and discover the joy of crafting.

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