DIY Toys

DIY toy ideas for kids to make from simple materials like paper, recyclables and glue

  • Paper snake craft

    This paper chain snake craft is based on two exotic-looking species of python which live in Australia’s tropical Daintree Rainforest. The yellow patterned snake (named Pretzel by my daughter) is a Jungle Carpet python, and the green spotted snake is a beautiful Green Tree python. If you’ve never seen one of these snakes in real…

  • Finger knit snake craft

    Here’s an easy finger knit snake craft using chunky yarn, pom poms and felt. Don’t worry, these guys are harmless and will leave you alone so long as you don’t step on them! This easy yarn craft was first published in 2018 and has been updated and re-shared for today’s audience. You might also like…

  • 30+ Puppets Kids Can Make

    Get ready for a world of creative fun with over 30 puppet crafts for kids! This collection of ideas includes puppets suitable for preschoolers through to older kids and teens and is sure to inspire hours of imaginative play. You might also like these DIY toys for kids. Do you remember making puppets as a…

  • cartoon stick puppets

    Cartoon stick puppets are a super-simple craft you can put together in five minutes. Use them for role plays, puppet shows, or even to talk about emotions and empathy with kids. Or just for fun! You might also like these paper roll empathy dolls I was pretty excited last week to share a set of…

  • paper plate frog puppet

    Create a snapping paper plate frog puppet! This easy frog craft is a fun DIY toy to make and play with. It’s perfect for kids who are learning about frogs or lifecycles and makes a fun Spring or Summer craft idea. It’s also super easy to put together. This kids craft idea was first published…

  • Paper Pterodactyl Puppet

    Here is a fun and easy paper pterodactyl puppet craft for kids. I love puppet crafts because they provide kids with a fun activity along with a DIY toy to play with (keeping them occupied for a little bit longer, haha).  This is perfect for dinosaur lovers, and is great when you need a low-mess,…

  • Boat crafts and activities

    Kids are going to love this collection of boat crafts and activities! There are STEM crafts, boats that GO, paper boat crafts, boats made from recyclables and nautical-themed art projects.   Whether you’re looking for a preschool boat craft or are crafting with tweens and teens, there’s something for everyone here. You might also like…

  • Straw DIY boat craft

    Here’s an easy straw DIY boat craft for Summer! This is a fun STEM craft (building something that floats) that has plenty of room for kids to modify the design and make it their own. You could even turn it into a STEM challenge. When the boats are finished, they become DIY toys. Place them…

  • Dancing flamingo puppet

    How cute is this dancing flamingo puppet you can make from chunky yarn and a few additional bits and pieces. Scroll down for the full tutorial and free printable face details.  This marionette DIY toy idea is suitable for older kids, tweens and teens. Or big kids at heart (like me!). You might also like…