DIY Foam Butterflies: Blue Morpho & Monarch Crafts for Kids

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Transform ordinary craft foam into breathtaking Blue Morpho and Monarch butterflies with this fun and easy DIY project! These vibrant insects are perfect for adding a touch of nature-inspired beauty to bedrooms, classrooms, or even creating charming decorations for a spring celebration. Kids will love the process of shaping, cutting, and decorating these stunning creatures, developing their fine motor skills and creativity along the way. No special tools are needed, making this a perfect activity for all ages and skill levels.

Prepare for a flutter of excitement as you embark on creating these captivating butterflies! With just a few simple supplies and a little imagination, you’ll be amazed at the beautiful results. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and bring these magnificent creatures to life!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Foam sheets (black, light blue, orange, white)
  • Butterfly templates (downloadable)
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Masking tape
Safety Guidelines
  • Adult supervision is required at all times. Craft foam can be a choking hazard for young children.
  • Use child-safe scissors and supervise children's cutting to prevent injury.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when using any adhesive sprays or glues to avoid inhaling fumes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Templates

    • Download and print the butterfly templates from the description or comments section. Two sizes are available.
    Download and print the butterfly templates from the description or comments section. Two sizes are available.
    Prepare Templates

  2. Rough Cut Foam

    • Cut out the foam pieces. Rough cutting is fine initially; precise cuts will be made later.
    Cut out the foam pieces. Rough cutting is fine initially; precise cuts will be made later.
    Rough Cut Foam

  3. Secure Foam for Precise Cutting

    • Prepare the foam pieces for precise cutting. Apply masking tape around the edges to prevent tearing or slippage.
    Prepare the foam pieces for precise cutting. Apply masking tape around the edges to prevent tearing or slippage.
    Secure Foam for Precise Cutting

  4. Precisely Cut Foam

    • Carefully cut the foam pieces along the template lines for a clean, accurate fit.
    Carefully cut the foam pieces along the template lines for a clean, accurate fit.
    Precisely Cut Foam

  5. Assemble Blue Morpho Butterfly

    • Glue piece number two onto piece one on the left, and piece three onto piece one on the right, ensuring symmetry.
    Assemble the Blue Morpho butterfly: Glue piece number two onto piece one on the left, and piece three onto piece one on the right, ensuring symmetry.
    Assemble Blue Morpho Butterfly

  6. Assemble Monarch Butterfly

    • Glue piece two to the top right of piece one, piece three to the top left. Add pieces four and five to the bottom, mirroring each other.
    • Add the small white details (pieces six and seven) to complete the Monarch butterfly's design.
    Add the small white details (pieces six and seven) to complete the Monarch butterfly's design.Add the small white details (pieces six and seven) to complete the Monarch butterfly's design.
    Assemble Monarch Butterfly

Read more: Super Crown Cosplay Tutorial: Fabric Covering for a Professional Finish

Tips

  • Use masking tape to secure the template to the foam for easier cutting.
  • For the smaller butterfly, leftover foam pieces can be used.
  • Aim for symmetry when gluing the pieces together for a balanced look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Foam Cutting

Reason: Using dull scissors or not paying attention to the cutting line results in jagged edges and an unprofessional look.
Solution: Use sharp scissors and carefully follow the template lines for precise cuts.

2. Glue Messes

Reason: Applying too much glue or using the wrong type of glue can lead to glue seeping through the foam and creating a sticky, messy surface.
Solution: Use a small amount of craft glue and allow it to dry slightly before assembling the butterfly.

3. Poor Antennae Attachment

Reason: The antennae are delicate and easily break or fall off if not properly secured.
Solution: Use a small amount of glue and firmly press the antennae into place, ensuring adequate drying time.

FAQs

What kind of craft foam is best for this project?
Lightweight craft foam sheets in various thicknesses work well. Thicker foam is more durable but slightly harder for younger children to cut. Look for foam that's easy to cut with scissors.
What if I don't have all the suggested craft supplies?
Don't worry! Get creative! You can substitute items. For example, instead of glitter, use colored markers or paint. If you don't have pipe cleaners, use chenille stems or even small pieces of yarn for the antennae.
How can I make the butterflies more durable?
To increase durability, consider laminating the finished butterflies with clear contact paper or Mod Podge. This will also give them a slight sheen.