This Little Red Riding Hood craft is a simple way to bring this fairy tale to life for your little learners.
Perfect for summer fun, storybook extensions, fairy tale studies, or rainy day creativity, this easy project uses just a few simple supplies (like a coffee filter, washable markers, and yarn). It’s a budget-friendly activity that can be used for retelling, puppet shows, story props, and more.
I’m sharing step-by-step instructions (with pictures!) to guide you from start to finish. Plus, I’ve got a bunch of creative tips for making and using this craft with your kids.
Frugal and Fun Fairy Tale Craft for Kids
When I was putting together my free printable Little Red Riding Hood Unit Study (which is set up just like my Preschool Enchantment resources), I was reminded of this super cute and simple coffee filter craft that’s a delightful way to bring the story to life.
I originally did this activity years ago when my boys were little. And I’ve always loved how easy it is to put together with super basic supplies. The best part about it is how my boys loved to use it as part of our homeschool preschool fun. It becomes an instant story prop that kids actually want to play with.
There’s just something magical about giving kids a chance to create their own version of a beloved character. It helps them connect with the story in a hands-on way.
Whether you’re reading the story for the first time or revisiting it as part of a fairy tale theme, this craft is such a fun way to spark excitement and creativity!
Suggested Supplies for This Fairy Tale Project
One of my favorite things about this craft? It uses simple supplies that you probably already have stashed in your homeschool or classroom craft bin! No fancy tools or complicated prep needed. Here’s what you’ll need to make your own adorable Little Red Riding Hood:
- Jumbo popsicle stick
- Coffee filter
- Red and pink washable markers
- Spray bottle with water
- Yellow yarn
- Black yarn
- White cardstock
- Glue
- Black marker
How to Make This Little Red Riding Hood Craft
Make the coffee filter cape.
Flatten a coffee filter and decorate it with red and pink washable markers. Use a mix of colors and strokes to give it a vibrant, shaded look. Spray the colored coffee filter with water using a spray bottle. Watch as the colors blend together. Let it dry completely.
Make the hair and face.
Cut several short strips of yellow yarn. These pieces will be Little Red’s hair. Cut a small circle from white cardstock or construction paper. This circle will be her face. Glue the yellow yarn strips to the top of a jumbo popsicle stick. Then glue the face circle in the middle of the yarn so it’s framed by hair. Use a black marker to draw eyes and a smile on the circle.
Add the cape.
Fold the top of the coffee filter just a bit to create a slight edge. Drape the filter around the top of the popsicle stick. Use a piece of black yarn to tie the coffee filter snugly under the face. This step gives the look of a hooded cape and holds everything in place.
Creative Ideas for Making and Using This Fairy Tale Activity
When your fairy tale craft is complete, you can use this cutie in so many ways. I encourage you to think outside the box. Oh, and ask your kids for their ideas on how to enjoy it! Here are some fun-focused ways to make the most of your Little Red creation:
- Storytelling Prop: Use your craft as a hands-on tool while reading Little Red Riding Hood. Kids can “act out” parts of the story with their puppet.
- Puppet Show Time: Add in a few more characters (like Grandma, the Wolf, and the Woodcutter). You can use simple paper cutouts (like in our free printable set!) or more coffee filter creations. Let your kids retell the story in their own words.
- Group Craft for Playdates, Storytime, or Classrooms: This project is simple enough for groups! Great for a library storytime, homeschool co-op, or rainy day playdate.
- Writing or Drawing Prompt: Have older kids write a twist on the story (What if Little Red met a friendly dragon instead?) or draw their own ending. Younger students can draw and color.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Little Red Riding Hood Project
This craft is perfect for preschool through early elementary. Little ones may need help with cutting and tying. It’s a great fine motor activity with lots of room for creative expression.
No worries! You can use a regular craft stick, a plastic spoon, or even a paper straw. Just scale down your face and cape as needed.
Yarn gives a fun texture, but you can totally sub in ribbon, string, or even cut paper strips. Use what you have on hand. It’s all about making it work for your crew!
Easily Enjoy Fairy Tale Fun for Kids!
This Little Red Riding Hood coffee filter craft is such a sweet and simple way to spark creativity, encourage storytelling, and make learning awesome.
And if you want to take the fun even further, I’ve got something super special for you:
Grab your FREE Little Red Riding Hood Printable Unit Study!
This playful and flexible resource is packed with fairy tale fun (just like my Preschool Enchantment style). It includes themed activities for early learning, story connections, and more. It’s the perfect companion to this craft and makes planning so much easier.
Get the free Little Red Riding Hood unit now and enjoy relaxed learning with your kids today. And I hope you and your children have a blast with this craft!
