Paper Dinosaur Craft: How To Make with Basic Shapes
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If you’re looking for a simple and frugal craft to enjoy with your kids, this paper dinosaur craft is a fantastic pick!
With just a few basic supplies (construction paper and glue), you can create a colorful and cute dinosaur made out of basic shapes. Whether you’re using it for a dinosaur-themed lesson, party, or a rainy day activity, this craft is wonderful for boosting creativity while practicing fine motor skills. It’s super affordable and easy to organize so it's awesome for homeschooling, classroom fun, or a creative project at home.
I've got you covered with step-by-step instructions plus easy ideas for extending the fun. Whether you're looking to incorporate it into a dinosaur-themed unit or just need a quick and easy craft, this project will make you roar with happiness.
A Dino-Mite Way to Boost Learning and Have Fun
Are you looking for an activity that helps your kids learn and practice a bunch of skills? Maybe you have little ones who love dinosaurs? Perhaps you're planning and preparing for a dinosaur party or dinosaur theme in your classroom?
Well, this easy paper dinosaur craft featuring basic shapes is excellent for all of those things and more!
Dinosaurs were a top pick for each of my boys at some point. Naturally, I tried to incorporate dino themes into a variety of homeschool activities to keep their interest. I even would try to cut their sandwiches into different types of dinosaurs!
Library trips would be so much fun going through the book bins and shelves looking for books featuring dinosaurs. We chose books with facts and just for fun. How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague was a favorite for us all. And we especially loved celebrating Dinosaur Day on June 1!
Along with all that reading fun, we'd enjoy printable activities (like our dinosaur bookmarks) and projects like this paper dinosaur craft.
Suggested Supplies for This Dinosaur Craft for Kids
As a busy mom, I love how this project uses only two materials. If you're short on time or working with younger children, I do suggest that you prepare the shapes before you get started. For this dino craft, you'll need:
- Construction paper in at least two colors (e.g., green and orange)
- Scissors
- Glue
If you have extra time or would like to customize your dinosaur, you can use:
- coloring tools (like crayons, markers, and color pencils)
- stickers
- stamps
- Kwik Stix (tempera paint sticks)
- pom poms
- sequins
- glitter glue
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Making This Basic Shapes Paper Dinosaur
Prepare the Shapes.
Cut out the following basic shapes from construction paper:
- Half-circle – This will be the base (body) of the dinosaur.
- Circles – Use a circle for the head.
- Rectangles – These can be used as legs, a neck, or even a tail.
- Triangles – Great for spikes along the back, patterns on the body, or a pointed tail.
- Squares – Can be used for legs, neck, or additional features.
Assemble the Dinosaur:
If using glue, encourage kids to experiment with placing the shapes before gluing. If not gluing, kids can rearrange the shapes repeatedly to make different dinosaurs.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Paper Craft for Kids
This craft is perfect for young children, typically ages 3-8. Younger children can enjoy this activity with supervision and a bit of prep work. Older kids may like to add more intricate details or variations to the design.
Yes, you can use any type of paper you have on hand, but construction paper works best because it's sturdy and easy to cut. Tissue paper, cardstock, and recycled paper (like from magazines or newspapers) can also be used. I say think outside the box and experiment!
Creative Ideas for Making and Using This Paper Dinosaur Craft
To add a special touch to your DIY dinosaur craft, consider using additional materials. Basic craft supplies (like pom poms, buttons, and sequins) can add texture and color. Googly eyes can be super cool, too!
Encourage your students to design and decorate a background for their dinosaurs. On larger paper, they can add rocks, trees, grass, and water.
Reminder: Add your child's name and date to the back of their dinosaur project - you'll be so glad you did!
To make this craft more educational, use the opportunity to teach or review basic shapes and colors. You can also pick a dinosaur that you would like to create and then talk about its name and other fun facts.
Display your dinosaurs on a bulletin board, wall, cabinet, or window. Another idea is to make smaller dinosaurs and place on the front of a card (or transform your larger dinosaur into DIY card!) for family and friends.
More Easy Paper Crafts for Kids
Keep your frugal craft train going! Here are a few more ideas for crafts using paper for kids:
- Basic shapes penguin
- Rainbow paper chain
- Paper chain caterpillar
- 3D Paper House Templates to color and customize
🦖🦕 What are your ideas for making and using this easy paper dinosaur craft for kids? Please let me know if you have any questions and share your ideas in the comment section at the bottom of this post!