Easy Paper Fish Summer Decorations: A Fun DIY Craft for Kids

Updated at: 27/01/2025

Summer is the perfect time for fun, creative projects, and what better way to celebrate the season than with adorable, handmade decorations? This article will guide you through a simple and enjoyable DIY craft: creating charming paper fish to brighten up your home for the summer months. These delightful fish are surprisingly easy to make, requiring only basic materials that you likely already have at home. They're a fantastic activity for kids of all ages, fostering creativity and fine motor skills while producing beautiful results.

Forget expensive store-bought decorations – these paper fish offer a cost-effective and engaging alternative. Their vibrant colors and playful designs will add a whimsical touch to any room, from bedrooms to living rooms. Get ready to dive into a sea of creativity as we explore the step-by-step instructions on how to craft your own shoal of paper fish. Let's begin!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Square piece of paper (A5 size or similar)
  • Glue
  • Scissors
  • Optional: Markers, small round object for eye stencil
Safety Guidelines
  • Adult supervision is required at all times, especially when using scissors and glue.
  • Keep small parts away from young children to prevent choking hazards.
  • Use non-toxic craft supplies. Ensure proper ventilation when using paints or markers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Cut a square piece of paper. The size isn't critical; 15cm x 15cm or 6cm x 6cm works well.
    Prepare your paper: Cut a square piece of paper. The size isn't critical; 15cm x 15cm or 6cm x 6cm works well.
    Prepare Materials

  2. Create Body and Tail Fans

    • Fold the larger square into a series of accordions, keeping a straight edge along the bottom. Repeat with the smaller square for the tail.
    Create the fan: Fold the larger square into a series of accordions, keeping a straight edge along the bottom. Repeat with the smaller square for the tail.
    Create Body and Tail Fans

  3. Cut the Fin

    • Cut a semicircle from the larger folded paper to form the fish's fin. Add small markings to create a more detailed fin.
    Cut the fin: Cut a semicircle from the larger folded paper to form the fish's fin. Add small markings to create a more detailed fin.
    Cut the Fin

  4. Cut the Eyes

    • Cut out two small circles (or use a stencil) for the eyes.
    Cut the eyes: Cut out two small circles (or use a stencil) for the eyes.
    Cut the Eyes

  5. Assemble the Fish

    • Fold both the body and tail in half. Apply glue to the inside of the tail fin and the edges of the body fan. Attach the tail fin and body sections together.
    Assemble the fish: Fold both the body and tail in half. Apply glue to the inside of the tail fin and the edges of the body fan. Attach the tail fin and body sections together.
    Assemble the Fish

  6. Add the Eyes

    • Apply glue to the back of the eyes and attach them to the fish's body.
    Add the eyes: Apply glue to the back of the eyes and attach them to the fish's body.
    Add the Eyes

  7. Hang the Fish (Optional)

    • Attach a small piece of string or tape to the top of the fish for hanging.
    Hang the fish: Attach a small piece of string or tape to the top of the fish for hanging.
    Hang the Fish (Optional)

Read more: DIY Toilet Paper Roll Rockets: A Fun and Easy Craft Project

Tips

  • Don't worry about being super neat; the imperfections add character.
  • Thinner fans create more detail.
  • Use off-cuts of paper to minimize waste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Fish Body Too Small

Reason: The fish body is too small to accommodate the other features like fins and eyes.
Solution: Use a larger piece of paper or create a larger template for the fish body.

2. Unevenly Cut Fins

Reason: The fins are cut unevenly, making the fish look lopsided.
Solution: Carefully follow the template or use scissors precisely to create symmetrical and balanced fins.

3. Glue Placement Issues

Reason: Glue is applied unevenly or too heavily, resulting in a messy or lopsided fish.
Solution: Apply a small amount of glue to specific areas, using a glue stick for better control.

FAQs

What kind of paper is best for making paper fish?
Construction paper or cardstock works best. They are sturdy enough to hold their shape and come in a variety of fun colors.
How can I make my paper fish more decorative?
Get creative! Add glitter, googly eyes, sequins, markers, or even small cutouts of other shapes like seaweed or bubbles to personalize your fish.