Let's play with paper cups! Crafts and indoor play
Did you know that paper cups, which are handy as simple drinking cups, are also great for crafts and indoor play?
When it comes to paper cup crafts, string telephones are the classic example, but they’re also used for a variety of make-and-play projects like kendama and bamboo-copters.
This time, we’ll introduce some activities that use paper cups you likely have at home.
There are plenty of games that use paper cups as-is, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to start playing right now.
If you’re looking for safe toys or games for children or the elderly, be sure to take a look for ideas.
- Paper cup crafts that elementary school kids will love! A collection of fun project ideas
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- A simple yet amazing craft using paper cups! An idea that’s also great for independent research projects.
- Fun crafts using straws
- Made with toilet paper rolls! Exciting and fun easy handmade toys
- Handmade games: DIY craft ideas you can make and play
- Handmade ideas to create and play the traditional Japanese game “Daruma Otoshi”!
- [Make with Kids] Handmade Outdoor Play Toy Special
- [Nursery/Kindergarten] Crafts you can play with after making them
- Let's make toys with milk cartons! Easy and fun DIY crafts!
- Let's Make and Play! A Collection of Homemade Kendama Ideas
- Crafts parents and kids can enjoy together. Recommended craft ideas to keep children entertained.
Let's play with paper cups! Crafts & indoor play (81–90)
Fishing game

It’s a fishing game using handmade fish and fishing rods! Prepare crabs and turtles made by covering yogurt cups with construction paper, fish made by stuffing crumpled paper into plastic bags, and jellyfish made by cutting slits into toilet paper rolls, and attach magnets in spots that aren’t easily visible on the surface.
Stick a string to a chopstick and attach a magnet to the other end to complete your fishing rod! Arrange the sea creatures on blue paper or a plastic sheet and enjoy the feeling of going fishing.
Speaker

Many people usually watch videos or listen to music on their smartphones.
Here’s an idea I’d like to share: a speaker made from paper cups.
First, prepare a toilet paper roll and cut a slit in the middle—this will hold the smartphone upright.
Next, cut circular openings on the sides of two paper cups so the roll can fit into them.
Finally, assemble the pieces, and you’re done.
The sound quality is surprisingly clear, so it should come in handy in various situations.
Paper Cup Catch Ball

Here’s a DIY idea to make a simple catch-and-throw ball machine like the ones you often see outdoors.
You’ll need a paper cup, a balloon, and a paper plate.
Cut out the bottom of the paper cup with a utility knife, then cut the top off the balloon and stretch it over the bottom of the cup, securing it firmly with clear tape.
Tie the balloon’s mouth so that the knot sits as close to the center as possible.
Cut the paper plate to remove one-quarter of the circle along with the center, then make radial slits on the inner edge and attach it to the rim side of the paper cup.
You can play with it as is, but it looks cute if you draw on it or decorate it with colored paper.
It’s a fun item you can use both indoors and outdoors.
In conclusion
We introduced some games you can play with paper cups.
There were lots of activities that make the most of how light and sturdy paper cups are, as well as crafts you can enjoy indoors.
Did you find any games you’d like to try? If you have any unused paper cups at home, be sure to include them in your everyday play!


