Simple paper crafts offer endless creative opportunities for kids and adults alike. We’ve selected 30 quick and easy projects that require just paper and a few supplies.
What’s great about paper crafts is that they’re so accessible to everyone! Most people have paper lying around at home right now. With just a few simple folds, cuts, or glue, paper can be turned into works of art.
I like to think of easy paper crafts as a gateway to a whole world of crafting fun. And if you’re thinking that paper projects are just boring cut-and-paste activities, you couldn’t be more wrong.
Paper crafts can create a wide range of techniques and items, such as home decor accessories, holiday decorations, DIY cards, and even toys.
Types of Paper For Crafts
You can use all kinds of paper for these craft ideas. Here are some types of paper to try:
Printer paper
Cardstock
Construction paper
Kraft paper
Origami paper
Scrapbook paper
Tissue paper
Recycled packaging (including newspapers, magazines, paper bags, wrapping paper)
Pro Tip: Use Your Kids’ Art Work
My family loves to print free coloring pages we find on Pinterest or sites like Creative Color Lab. Instead of letting the finished coloring sheets pile up around the house though, we use them to make easy papercraft projects like the ones I’ve included below.
30 Easy Things to Make Out of Paper
No matter your age or skill level, learn how to turn paper into unique items with these easy-to-follow paper projects.
1. Bespoke Basket
Learn how to fold and weave paper into beautiful, eco-friendly baskets. They’re ideal for organizing small items or as gift holders. You could even use them during an Easter egg hunt this spring!
Materials:
Colored bond paper/printer paper (old magazines work well too)
Pencil
Scissors
Glue
2. Love Lanterns
Create delicate decor that casts a soft, warm light for relaxed vibes. This candle holder would be a brilliant addition to a Valentine’s Day dinner or as a night light.
Materials:
A4 size paper (2 pieces)
1 x 21 cm paper (3 pieces)
Cutter
Ruler
Glue
Pencil
Glue gun
3. Spectacular Snowflakes
With just a few folds and careful cuts, you can craft this Christmas snowflake decoration. It’s a great winter activity to bring the whole family together for tons of fun.
Materials:
A4 size paper
Scissors
Pencil
4. Paper Python Project
Follow a few simple steps to make a springy snake that slithers and slides. This playful paper chain snake is the ideal buddy for toddlers and preschoolers.
Materials:
A4 size paper (2 pieces)
10 x 10 cm piece of paper
Scissors
Glue stick
Googly eyes
Marker pen
5. Coloring Page Garland
Fill in a heart coloring page with your favorite hues and then turn it into a simple Valentine’s Day garland. For a more sophisticated look, limit the color palette to several versions of the same color family. Or let the kids go wild and embrace the colorful garland look.
Materials:
1-2 copies of a heart coloring page like this one, printed on cardstock
Scissors
Tape
Yarn or twine
6. Bouncing Bunny
Hop into crafting with adorable paper crafts like this Easter bunny! Kids of all ages will love these little cuties. Use them as spring decorations or as handmade toys.
Materials:
Construction paper (SIZE)
Glue stick
Sharpies
Pencil
Paper roll or round stencil
7. Cascading Card
Send heartfelt messages on special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries with this waterfall greeting card. This fun paper craft is fab for little fingers and practicing fine motor skills.
Materials:
7 x 7 cm piece of cardstock
6 x 6 cm piece of cardstock
7 x 32 cm piece of cardstock
2 x 14 cm piece of cardstock
Glue stick
Liquid glue
Pencil
Ruler
Scissors
Sticker or marker
8. Origami Organizer
Make a stylish and useful bag that’s brilliant for storing important notes. I love that you can customize all of the colors and embellishments. This would make a super-cute purse or organizer.
Materials:
A4 size paper (7 pieces)
Liquid glue
Pencil
Ruler
Markers
9. Parcel Perfection
Fill this gorgeous gift box with small presents and trinkets. Making this easy paper craft will be just as rewarding as giving the gift itself!
Materials:
21 x 21 cm piece of paper or cardstock
11.2 x 11.2 cm piece of paper or cardstock
1 x 14 cm strips of paper (2 pieces)
5 x 12 cm piece of paper
1 x 6 cm piece of paper
3 x 7 cm piece of paper
Scissors
Glue stick
Pencil
10. Tiny Tales
If you're looking for a great project to celebrate a love of writing: this is it. Write short stories or notes for friends in these mini notebooks.
Materials:
A4 size paper
A4 size cardstock
Scissors
Glue stick
Pencil
Markers and/or stickers for decoration
11. DIY Folded Fan
All you need to make this handheld fan is three pieces of paper and a dab of glue. Pick patterned paper or bright coloring sheets to really make them stand out.
Materials:
A4 size paper (3 pieces)
Glue
12. Woven Wonders
Learn the art of paper weaving and create colorful place mats that can be used any time of the year. This is an easy paper craft that even preschoolers can try.
Materials:
A4 size construction paper
1 inch wide paper strips
Liquid glue
Scissors
13. Blooming Beautiful
Follow the step-by-step instructions to create a personalized flower piece. Paper crafts are even more fun when they’re 3D!
Materials:
3 x 20 cm strips of paper (13 pieces)
7 x 13 cm piece of paper (5 pieces)
Liquid glue
Scissors
Related: Check out our lotus flower kit to make more paper flowers!
14. Multicolored Wall Hanging
Use simple materials to create starburst-shaped color explosions. You can hang them as 3D wall decor or party decorations.
Materials:
2 x 20 cm strips of paper (8 pieces)
Stapler
Liquid glue
Scissors
15. Pretty Pinwheel
Bring back childhood memories with this simple windmill craft. These pleasant plant pot decorations are so easy to make! Watch them spin in a blur of color the faster they go.
Materials:
7.5 x 7.5 cm (5 pieces)
A4 size paper
Scissors
Pencil
Liquid glue
Coin (or any other small round item to draw around)
Small piece of card (just big enough for the coin)
Pin
16. Cute Corner Bookmarks
Make reading even more fun with just a single piece of paper. These page markers are unbelievably cute and entirely customizable. Make one in just a couple of minutes.
Materials:
15 x 15 cm piece of paper
17. 3D Tulip Bouquet
These intricate tulips may look tricky, but they’re actually really simple to make. Craft a whole bouquet and give it to your mom or grandma on Mother’s Day.
Materials:
A4 size paper (3 different colored pieces)
Skewer (just for rolling)
Liquid glue
18. Autumnal Accent
The gorgeous fall colors of this project really captured my heart. Use them (or any colors you love) to make this lovely leaf decor. Display at home or school for some 3D, nature-inspired art.
Materials:
7 x 7 cm piece of paper (1 per leaf; make as many as you like!)
A4 size paper (2 pieces)
Scissors
Marker
Liquid glue
19. Charming Christmas Chain
Want a fun, easy way to decorate your home for the holidays? Spread the Christmas spirit by making snowmen, trees, angels, or gingerbread men.
Materials:
A4 size paper
Scissors
Glue stick
Pencil
20. Paper Chain Wall Art
This video tutorial demonstrates how to make a stunning paper rainbow art piece. You can make them quickly and customize the colors. They’re great for hanging at kids’ birthday parties or using as inexpensive holiday decor any time of year.
Materials:
Graph paper (optional)
Cardstock
Paper cutter (can use scissors if you don’t have one)
Scissors
Tape
Ruler
Dowel or stick
String
Glue glue (optional - alternatively just tie the string)
21. Feathered Friends Beak Mask
Making paper masks is a fun and budget-friendly way to prepare for a party or play dress up. Go “quackers” at a Halloween party with this charming costume.
Materials:
A4 size paper
Glue stick
Elastic ties
Markers
22. Cupid’s Crease
Learn how to make a charming origami heart from just one sheet of paper. You can use it to decorate a handmade card or turn several into a paper heart garland for Valentine’s Day.
Materials:
15 x 15 cm piece of paper
23. Crafty Constellation
Turn a paper square into a tiny star in a few simple steps. Be careful, though, as there’s a good chance you’ll get addicted! Create a whole galaxy of stars to use as reward tokens for your little ones. Sprinkle them with glitter for extra sparkle.
Materials:
2 x 30 cm piece of paper
24. Bear-y Special Box
Use paper to make the sweetest little storage box ever. I love that you can customize every aspect, from the colors to the animal design - stick with a bewitching bear or try a playful puppy.
Materials:
21 x 21 cm piece of paper (save the offcut)
6 x 6 cm piece of paper
Glue stick
Scissors
Marker
25. Courtside Creation
Create a playable basketball hoop to keep the kids entertained on a rainy day. This simple craft is easy to make and can provide hours of indoor fun.
Materials:
A4 size paper
Liquid glue
Marker
Ruler
26. Froggy Flips
Both kids and adults will be hopping mad for these fidgety frogs. Use a single piece of paper and markers to customize your bouncy buddy. Watch him spring into action!
Materials:
20 x 20 cm piece of paper
Marker
27. DIY Desk Organizer
This simple desk caddy is ideal for kids heading back to school. You can add drawings, stickers, and other embellishments to personalize. Fill it with your favorite gel pens, coloring pencils, and highlighters.
Materials:
A4 size paper
Markers
28. Christmas Tree Decoration
Are you looking for an art project to keep your kiddos busy this winter? Place these wonderfully creative Xmas ornaments on your fireplace for unique holiday decor.
Materials:
10.5 x 30 cm piece of paper
4.5 x 20 cm piece of paper
Liquid glue
Little circles - hole punch scraps and a star
29. Puppet Pal
With just a bit of paper, glue, and a pair of scissors, you can create this fab mouse puppet. This is such an adorable idea and has endless opportunities for customization.
Materials:
A4 size paper
5 x 10 cm piece of paper (2 pieces)
2 x 10 cm piece of paper
Glue stick
Scissors
30. Halloween Hat
This fun project offers a fantastic opportunity for children to make their own wicked witch hat for All Hallow’s Eve. Pick your favorite colors and add details like spider webs and bats.
Materials:
A4 size paper (2 pieces)
2 x 30 cm strip of paper
3 x 5 cm piece of paper
5 x 10 cm piece of paper
Liquid glue
Scissors
What to Make Next?
Hopefully, these simple paper crafts are just the beginning of your creative journey!
If you’ve caught the crafting bug, check out some of our other fun things to make out of paper:
Axolotl 3D Model
Dragon Wall Art
Unicorn Head Wall Mount
Sinar Arrow Table Lamp
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