This easy jellyfish craft for kids is a super cute way to build important skills and work on a fun project.
Whether you’re exploring ocean animals, working on the Letter J, or just need a screen-free activity to keep little hands busy, this mess-free jellyfish activity is perfect. With simple supplies (paper and yarn) and easy-to-follow steps, this craft has squiggly tentacles that are so cool to touch. Enjoy it for a summer craft day, an under-the-sea theme, or to brighten up your learning space with some DIY ocean decor.
I’m sharing step-by-step instructions plus tips and creative ideas for using your jellyfish friend. Oh, and make sure to get the free template to make it even easier to enjoy!
A Cute and Frugal Jellyfish Activity for Kids
If you’re look for an easy way to boost your summer or ocean themes with kids, I’ve got an awesome project for you. Plus, it works for Letter J and under the sea fun!
I hope you love this easy jellyfish craft made with paper and yarn as much as my boys and I did.
After sharing our paper plate jellyfish craft (the one with the pipe cleaner tentacles), I remembered another jellyfish-themed activity that my boys and I absolutely loved. This easy paper and yarn jellyfish craft was such a hit in our summer homeschool fun!
It’s one of those projects that’s so simple to prep but brings such big smiles. We made a whole bunch of these wiggly jellyfish in all sorts of colors. It’s such a budget-friendly project that you can really make as many as you’d like.
Suggested Supplies for Your Jellyfish Craft
One of the best parts about this jellyfish craft? You don’t need anything fancy to make it happen!
With just a few basic supplies (that you probably already have), you’re all set for some under-the-sea creativity. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started:
- paper (we used pink and white construction paper)
- yarn (at least two colors)
- black marker
- scissors
- glue stick
How to Make This Paper and Yarn Jellyfish Craft
Prepare the pieces of your jellyfish.
Cut out shapes for jellyfish body and eyes. You can use the free template or sketch your own pieces. Then, cut strands of yarn in both colors to use as tentacles.
Arrange and attach your jellyfish pieces.
Mix the yarn strands together. You’ll want enough to have an even spread at the bottom of the jellyfish body. Glue the yarn to the back of the bottom of the jellyfish. You can add a strip of paper over the yarn pieces to reinforce. Glue the eye pieces on the front.
Draw your jellyfish face.
Use a black marker to add a cute mouth and finish the eyes. You can add a variety of mouth shapes if you’d like to have your students learn about emotions.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Jellyfish Project
This craft is ideal for preschoolers through early elementary. Older kids can totally join in, too! Younger kids may need help with cutting and gluing. Older ones might enjoy customizing their jellyfish with fun details like glitter or googly eyes.
Definitely! Yarn is fun and wiggly. You can also use ribbon, curling ribbon, pipe cleaners, or pieces of streamers.
Construction paper or cardstock works best because it’s sturdy enough to hold the yarn or ribbon tentacles. Regular printer paper can work in a pinch!
Creative Ideas for Using Your DIY Jellyfish
Looking for ways to stretch the fun and learning with this cute jellyfish project? Here are some super cool and simple ways to make the most of this easy craft:
- Letter J Fun: Use this craft as a hands-on activity when learning about the Letter J.
- Storytime Extension: Pair the craft with a read-aloud like Peanut Butter and Jellyfish by Jarrett J. Krosoczka.
- Fine Motor Practice: Cutting yarn, gluing, and drawing the face are fantastic ways to strengthen hands. Students can also braid or twist yarn pieces.
- Display and Celebrate: Show off your DIY jellyfish on a wall, bulletin board, or other frequently visited area.
- World Jellyfish Day: Celebrate all things jellyfish on November 3.
Make a Splash with This Easy Jellyfish Craft!
This simple paper and yarn jellyfish craft is a wonderful way to combine creativity, learning, and hands-on fun. Whether you’re diving into an ocean unit, focusing on the Letter J, or just looking for a relaxed and frugal activity to brighten your day, this cute jellyfish is sure to bring smiles all around.
Here’s that FREE printable template for your jellyfish!
I hope it brings as much joy to your learning adventures as it did to ours! Please let me know if you have any questions and share your ideas, too!
