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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- 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! Craft Activities & Indoor Games (51–60)
Handmade maracas
This craft is inspired by maracas made with paper cups that produce a cheerful rattling sound when lightly shaken.
The steps are simple: put beads or finely cut pieces of straw into a paper cup, then cover it with another paper cup as a lid.
What you put inside is important—consider how different fillings change the sound as you make it.
Decorating the outside is also a key point; aim for fun decorations that match the light, lively sound of the maracas.
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!
Paper Cup Jenga
Let’s enjoy the thrill! Here are some ideas for Paper Cup Jenga.
Jenga is a simple party game played with wooden blocks, where players take turns removing blocks from a stacked tower without toppling it.
This time, let’s put a twist on Jenga—fun for both kids and adults—using paper cups and printer paper.
It’s also great because setup and cleanup are easy.
It’s perfect for recess or short breaks, so give it a try!
Animals walking with paper cups
These are animal paper cups that are super cute when they toddle along.
Cut two slits on opposite sides of the rim of a paper cup and fold the cut sections outward.
Attach a rubber band to a used battery, hook it onto the folded parts, and secure it with tape.
Twist the battery around and place the cup upside down—now you’ve got a toddling cup that walks! Finish it by gluing colored paper to the sides, adding ears, and drawing eyes and a mouth.
It’s so adorable you’ll want to make all kinds of animals.
Let's Play with Paper Cups! Craft Activities & Indoor Games (61–70)
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.
Ogre puppet made from a paper cup
@hoikushisatomi [Easy to Make] Oni (Demon) Puppet CraftNursery teacher / Childcare worker#100-yen shop DIY#NurseryTeacherDailyLifeSetsubunOni of SetsubunPuppet
♬ Find you in the dark feat. Nenashi – Ovall
The “Oni puppet” made from a paper cup is a unique handmade craft idea that can be enjoyed year-round.
By simply attaching horns and a face designed from origami or construction paper to a paper cup, you can create an oni with lots of expression.
Both the materials and tools are simple, making it appealing for children to work at their own pace.
During the process, imagination is nurtured through experimenting with colors and shapes, and it naturally encourages interaction with caregivers and teachers.
The finished piece is fun to display and is a highly satisfying craft made from familiar materials.
