Whether a child is a card-carrying animal lover or craft-obsessed kiddo, no doubt, they’ll take to these sweet animal crafts. With projects ranging from the super simple (think painting Popsicle sticks) or more elaborate (think some sewing), there’s something in our list for everyone.
From toilet paper roll frogs to intricate pipe cleaner bunnies, check out our list of 18 animal crafts for kids.
Animal crafts for kids on the younger side
These animal-inspired crafts are great for kids who are in elementary school and below.
1. Toilet paper frog
Ribbit, ribbit. How cute is this toilet paper roll frog from The Best Ideas for Kids? It can be made in a cinch, and if you’re itching to craft more, you can whip up some simple lily pads with paper plates.
2. Craft stick farm animals
One of the easiest animal crafts for kids, these stick farm animals from Crafts by Amanda yield a cute result that your child can then play with! Farm, anyone?
3. Clothespin alligator puppets
Chomp chomp! Delia from Delia Creates got the idea for a clothespin alligator when she needed something to entertain her 3-year-old — and fast. You can either use the downloadable template on her site or try your hand at making one on your own.
4. Stuffed animal collar
Almost every household with kids has a random jar of beads lying around — why not turn them into a stuffed animal collar, like this one from Artsy Fartsy Mama. Not only is this craft simple, with minimal mess, kids will get a kick at making something for their beloved stuffy.
5. Framed bunnies
Really, kids (and adults) of any age would have fun making these sweet little framed bunny heads from Sibster Made, but they would look extra adorable hung up in the room of little one.
6. Foam cup safari animals
Without question, little kids will love the final product of these foam cup safari animals from Kids Activities Blog. They can either follow along with the visuals on the site or make their own decorative animals.
7. 3D ladybug
If you’ve got a little one that delights in spotting ladybugs, this sweet 3D ladybug craft from Craft Room Time is for them. And an added bonus: You probably already have everything you need to whip these up.
8. Paper chain jellyfish
Love the ombré vibe of these paper chain jellyfish from Crafts by Ria. Of course, kids can choose whatever colors they want for the tentacles, but the light to dark pattern makes for ideal hanging.
9. Popsicle stick angelfish
If you have glue, pop sticks and paint (and maybe a googly eye), then you have everything you need to make these sweet Popsicle stick angelfish from Meaningful Mama. How cute would these look hung up by the window?
10. Crawling caterpillar
This crawling caterpillar craft from Lena’s Little Ones is especially fitting if your child is a big Eric Carle fan. And even if they’re not, they’ll have fun making — and playing with — this colorful creation.
11. Nature critters
Not all crafts need to come from the cupboard. Take a page out of Run Wild My Child‘s handbook and create something, like these nature critters, from things only found outside.
12. Squishmallow painted rocks
Squee! These Squishmallow painted rocks from Rock Painting Guide are just too cute. Whether your child wants to do an exact replica of Cam the Cat or wants to do their own thing, this animal craft leaves room for imagination and improvisation.
Animal crafts for older kids
Some of these animal crafts may require help from an adult still, but these animal-themed crafts and projects are a good fit for older kids.
13. Animal appliqué pillow
These cute animal appliqué pillows from Crafting Cheerfully are definitely on the advanced side, so they’re probably best-suited for kids in high school. The result, though — need we even say it? — is positively adorable.
14. DIY balloon dog
For older kids interested in trying their hand at papier mache, this balloon dog from Cherry Lady is a great jumping-off point.
15. 3D glitter butterflies
It’s the glitter-tipped wings for us in this 3D glitter butterfly craft from Crafty Marie. Whether older kids want to make these as decor for their room or as a gift to friends, they’re a slam-dunk craft.
16. Pipe cleaner bunnies
While pipe cleaner bunnies may sound like a little kid craft, when you see this incredible tutorial from Michi Mux, you’ll quickly realize insane fine motor skills — and patience — are required for this craft.
17. Paperback hedgehog
This paperback hedgehog craft from Pink Stripey Socks takes some patience, but the end result is a sweet little critter made out of literature. So clever!
18. Cardboard penguin
If you’ve got a cardboard box lying around, then you have what you need to make this clever cardboard penguin from Golden Rat. Truly, the ultimate form of upcycling.
