[For Seniors] A Collection of Craft Ideas Using Paper Cups
Craft recreation activities that are popular among seniors.
They can be done while seated and are open to everyone regardless of gender, so many people can enjoy them.
However, coming up with project ideas isn’t always easy, is it?
So this time, we’ll introduce craft ideas using paper cups—easy to prepare and customize, and inexpensive in terms of materials.
We’ve gathered projects that are rewarding to make, including cleverly designed pieces and items you can display or use at home.
Crafting also uses your fingertips, which is effective for stimulating the brain.
By all means, create some wonderful pieces!
- Crafts with paper cups using familiar materials (for seniors)
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- [For Seniors] Recommended for day services! Simple and cute small craft ideas
- [For Seniors] Easy Craft Activity Using Straws
- [For Seniors] Craft Ideas Using Paper Plates
- [For Seniors] Simple and Fun: Craft Ideas You Can Make with Everyday Items
- [For Seniors] Simple Craft Ideas Using Yakult Containers
- [For Seniors] Small craft ideas: for yourself and as gifts!
- For Seniors: Auspicious Handmade Zodiac Ornament Craft Ideas
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[For Seniors] Craft Ideas Made with Paper Cups (11–20)
Make it for recreation! Paper cup crane
Let’s try making a paper-cup version of the ever-popular crane game from arcades.
The crane game market has been growing year by year, and it’s said that more than half of total sales at amusement facilities come from crane games.
Now, once you’ve prepared two paper cups, use one to make the crane body and the other to create the arm.
It nicely recreates that unreliable, hard-to-grab feeling of the arm.
The real machines move up, down, left, and right with control buttons, but for this crane, you’ll have to operate even the opening and closing of the arm by hand.
Bean-Throwing Cup
Let’s make an easy bean cup using a paper cup.
First, firmly press and flatten the rim of the cup, then cut off the edge with scissors.
Overlap the drinking rim to create a lid, add the beans, and then slide the previously cut rim under the lid to use it as a handle.
Finally, decorate the outside like an oni (ogre) and you’re done! Feel free to make it cute using yarn, felt, or construction paper.
Since the handle is only tucked under the lid, it will come off when you open the lid.
If it’s a hassle to tuck it in each time, try cutting the edge in half and gluing it on.
Dress-up Hina dolls
These Hina dolls use paper cups and are fun both to make and to enjoy when finished.
When you twist the paper cup, the patterns on the Emperor’s and Empress’s kimonos change.
It’s a piece you can gift to your grandchildren or display in your room.
After cutting and coloring the paper cups, add faces, accessories, and parts to the Emperor and Empress.
On a separate paper cup, create three different kimono patterns.
Using masking tape makes this easy.
Stack the two paper cups to complete it.
The steps are simple, but the project is full of clever ideas.
Moving your fingertips while crafting and spinning the finished piece may also help stimulate the brain.
Sunflower easily made with paper cups
Here’s how to make a sunflower using everyday materials like paper cups.
The best part is you can make it anytime if you have spare paper cups! It’s also great to include in activities at home or in day service recreation.
Cut around the rim of the paper cup and make several slits.
Open up the cup and cut it into petal shapes.
When adding color to the flower, you can stick on origami paper or washi tape.
If you prepare about three sets of petals made from paper cups, you’ll get a nice, full sunflower! Finally, glue everything together and attach a circular piece of construction paper in the center to finish.
Add a string and it becomes a hanging decoration—give it a try!
A paper cup windmill
A pinwheel that you can easily make with a paper cup looks refreshing and is perfect as a recreational activity.
Just cut open the paper cup to form the blades, make a post with a skewer or small branch, and attach a straw handle threaded through a pair of disposable chopsticks—then it’s done.
It’s easy for everyone from children to seniors.
With few tools and steps required, you can make it anywhere, so it’s highly recommended.
You can also enjoy designing your own original pinwheel—it’s a simple craft that’s fun to customize.
Paper cup cracker
A paper-cup cracker that shines at parties and events for seniors.
First, make a hole in the center of the cup’s bottom, then cut slits at the lower edge and curve it.
Thread a rubber band through the hole, pass it through aluminum foil, and roll it up to finish.
Put cotton balls or crumpled origami inside the paper cup; pull the rubber band and release to launch them with a pop.
Use light, soft materials and keep safety in mind.
Give it a try as a fun item for parties and celebrations.
[For Seniors] Craft Ideas Using Paper Cups (21–30)
Paper Cup Shooting Game
Why not make a paper cup shooting game using everyday materials like paper cups and balloons? It’s great not only for older adults but also for families to enjoy with children! It’s very easy to make.
Cut out the bottom of a paper cup, trim the tied end of a balloon, fit it over the cup, and secure it firmly with vinyl tape.
Stack paper cups in a pyramid and use a ping-pong ball to knock them down and enjoy the game! Try using it for recreation or rehabilitation activities in senior care facilities.