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How to Make Stuffed Paper Fish

by The Artful Parent Editorial Team
May 1, 2025
stuffed paper fish featured

Create a large 3D paper fish to hang by itself or in a group. You can make them as realistic or playful as you like.

Get creative with this fun 3D paper fish craft! These large, colorful fish are perfect for hanging on their own or as part of a playful underwater scene.

We love this activity from our Kids’ Art Camp Oceans Week. It’s great for a summer afternoon or part of an oceans homeschool curriculum.

Kids can design them to be realistic or use bright colors and patterns to make them stand out. It’s a great way to explore shapes, color, and imagination. Hang them from the ceiling or in a window to add a splash of fun to any space. 

Here’s how to make them!

How to Make Stuffed Paper Fish

MATERIALS

*Use whatever you have that is lightweight (crumpled newspaper, recycle bin paper, packaging materials, foam peanuts, bubble wrap, etc.)

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Create your fish

    Fold over your paper and draw a large fish on it. Cut out both layers, so you have 2 identical paper fish.

    Staple the 2 fish papers together around the edges, leaving a 6-inch opening. Stuff the fish with a lightweight material (see note). Then finish stapling the rest of the papers together.

    plain paper fish

  2. Paint your fish

    Paint one side of the fish. Let dry, then turn the fish over and paint the other side. Let dry again.

    painted paper fish

    If desired, add additional details with markers or collage items. 

    painted fish

  3. Hang your fish

    Use a hole punch to add a hole at the top. String a piece of yarn through and tie a knot. 

    Hang your fish up!

    paper fish and string

  4. Repeat

    Make as many fish you’d like!

    stuffed paper fish featured

We love the way these fish look, swimming along in a big school!

More Animal Art Activities for Kids

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