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.
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Let’s play with paper cups! Crafts and indoor activities (71–80)
Frisbee
This is a handmade frisbee made by cutting open paper cups.
Divide the circumference of two paper cups into five equal parts each, and make straight slits down the sides.
Open them out into flower shapes, then decorate one with patterns using pens or stickers.
Place the other paper cup over the opposite side (the side without the drawing) and staple them together to complete a colorful frisbee! Be careful not to pinch your fingers when using the stapler.
Once you’re done, have fun with the frisbee’s unpredictable and amusing movements.
helicopter
If you want to spark children’s creativity, how about making a paper-cup helicopter? It’s an idea where you create a propeller using a bamboo skewer and rubber bands attached to a paper cup.
Since there are several somewhat complex steps, make sure a parent or guardian provides support when working with younger children.
By changing the cup’s color, adding drawings, or decorating with stickers, you can create a helicopter full of originality depending on your arrangements.
Through activities like this, try experiencing how familiar everyday materials can take on new shapes and functions!
Stretchy paper cup animals
This craft is full of ideas using umbrella plastic that really comes in handy during the rainy season! The “Stretchy Paper Cup Animals” change shape, so they make a big impact and kids are sure to love them.
First, decorate a paper cup as your favorite animal, and punch a hole in the paper cup that will go behind the animal.
Next, cut off the lower part of an accordion (bendy) straw, cover it with a halved piece of umbrella plastic, and tape it in place.
Tie a knot in the other piece of plastic, then insert the straw into the hole in the paper cup.
Finally, tape the knotted end to the bottom of the paper cup—and you’re done! Blow into the straw and it stretches way out—it’s so much fun.
Try making different animals and enjoy crafting together as a parent and child!
Tree-climbing little monkey
Play with full enthusiasm! Here’s a fun idea for a climbing monkey craft.
You’ll need a paper cup, straws, scissors, a picture/illustration, glue or double-sided tape, and kite string.
First, cut out the bottom of the paper cup.
Prepare two straws cut to 5 cm each, attach them parallel to each other on the inside of the cup, and thread the kite string through them.
Once you stick the illustration onto the cup, it’s done! When you pull the kite string alternately, the monkey appears to climb—it’s a delightful idea.
Give it a try!
spool tank
Do you know the spool tank? It’s a classic craft that has long been popular, and it looks like a spool with chopsticks attached.
The chopsticks are connected to the spool with a rubber band; when you twist it, it stores energy, and when you let go, it moves forward on its own.
How about making the spool part out of a paper cup? It’s larger than a spool, so it’s more impressive, and you can have fun decorating it.
It also runs quite fast, so racing them can be really exciting.
