How to Make DIY Paper Wings for Kids

First cut a piece of kraft paper (around 20 in x 20 in) and then fold it in half. Then carefully draw a wing shape (bat wing-style for dragons, bird-wings, or even butterfly wings) using pencil. If your kraft paper is thin, you’ll want to double the thickness; if you have kraft paper of a decent thickness, you can probably get away with single piece.

Next, open the paper back up and place the plastic rod or dowel along the fold. Then carefully brush a light layer of glue over the paper. Fold it and smooth it shut.

Finally cut along the pencil lines and glue together any parts that are not already joined properly.

Next is the fun bit!

First show kids how to cut a dragon scale or a bird feather shape. Then let the kids cut their own feathers or scales out of a variety of papers in different colors.



It’s important to model how to glue the scales / feathers on as there are a few tricks:
– Begin gluing from the BOTTOM of your wings, this way you can achieve a nice overlap.
– Start with larger scales or feathers at the bottom and work towards smaller ones at the top.
– Try to avoid placing the same color / pattern scales / feathers next to each other.
– Try not to leave any gaps.

Younger kids tend to add larger feathers or dragon scales while more mature kids can get lost in creating intricate patterns. Either way the results are sure to impress.

Now for the tricky bit which can be done by an adult.

First, lay down a strip of duct tape along the top middle part of the wings. This adds extra strength and a workable surface. Then measure out a length of elastic against your child to form two loose arm loops. Remember looser is better to keep the wings fitting comfortably.

Attach the length of elastic (approximately 30 inches) exactly in the middle of your strip (lying horizontally) with hot glue. Then fold in the ends and secure with more hot glue.

Tape some duct tape (8 inches long) directly over the middle of the elastic loops to secure and press down.