Traffic Cone Craft: How to Make for Terrific Fun
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure statement. Thanks for visiting!
Do you need a fun and budget-friendly activity for a construction or transportation theme? This toilet paper roll traffic cone craft is terrific and easy to make.
It’s simple, inexpensive, and requires only a few supplies you probably have in your home or classroom. This DIY traffic cone can be used for transportation themes, planning a construction party, or a quick project for rainy day fun. Plus, the traffic cones can be used for games, imaginative play, or even as decorations.
I'm sharing a supplies list, step-by-step instructions, and creative ideas for using these cute traffic cones. I hope your kids have as much fun with this project as my boys did!
Easy DIY Way to Boost Your Party, Play Time, and More
Got kids who love all sorts of vehicles, like cars, motorcycles, buses, and trucks? Or maybe you're planning and preparing for a construction or transportation theme or lesson and want a frugal activity to take learning to the next level? Perhaps you're getting ready for a transportation or construction party and want DIY decorations or party favors?
Well, this easy toilet paper roll traffic cone craft is absolutely incredible for all of those things and more!
When my oldest was little, he had several themes that he'd rotate through during playtime. Dinosaurs, bugs, and sports (like soccer and football) were favorites. His top pick that he'd come back to again and again was anything with wheels. He especially adored cars and had quite a collection of Hot Wheels cars that he'd play with all the time.
I would think up different things to do with him to boost his playtime with cars. We'd go outside and use DIY sidewalk chalk to make roads, paths, and obstacles. Also, we enjoyed projects with transportation themes - like this traffic cone craft!
Suggested Supplies for This Traffic Cone Craft
This easy craft for kids only uses a few materials. Here's the list of basic supplies you'll need to get started:
- Empty toilet paper roll
- Small piece of cardboard (about 3x3 inches)
- Orange paint
- Scissors
- Glue (hot glue or craft glue)
- Paintbrush
If you'd like to customize your DIY traffic cones (I highly recommend it if you have the time), you can add glitter glue, cardstock, and washi tape. Oh, and if you'd rather not use paint (I totally get it!), try tempera paint sticks that make this project almost mess-free!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making These DIY Traffic Cones
Paint the Materials.
Paint the toilet paper rolls orange and let dry. Paint the pieces of cardboard orange and also let them dry.
Cut the Toilet Paper Roll.
Using scissors, cut the toilet paper roll lengthwise from the top to almost the bottom, leaving about ½ inch uncut.
Form the Cone Shape.
Wrap the cut edges of the toilet paper roll inward to form a cone shape. Apply glue along the overlapping edges to hold the shape. Hold in place until the glue sets.
Add the Base.
If the bottom of the cone is uneven or has extra layers, trim it so it sits flat. Apply glue to the bottom of the cone and press it onto the painted cardboard to secure it.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Toilet Paper Roll Craft
Yes! You can substitute the toilet paper rolls with paper towel rolls or cardstock. Just adjust the size accordingly.
This craft is ideal for preschool to early elementary-aged kids. Younger children can enjoy this project with adult supervision and a bit of help. Older children may enjoy personalizing their traffic cones with additional details or trying different colors.
If you don't want to paint the cones, consider using tempera paint sticks. Or you can use crayons or markers!
Creative Ways to Make and Use Your Toilet Paper Roll Traffic Cones
Just follow the steps in the tutorial found above to get traffic cones that look like the examples. If you'd like to add some special touches to your project, consider:
- Using washi tape (or painter's tape) at the base of the cone to add a white or yellow line like a reflective collar
- Painting a line (using a brush, foam brush, cotton ball, or other tool)
- Trying different colors for your cones (based on favorites or themes)
- Using a permanent marker to write letters, numbers, names, or words on your traffic cone crafts
- Painting or coloring the base black
To use your DIY traffic cones, here are some ideas to try:
- For creative play, make several cones and use for toy cars or trucks to go around
- Use your DIY cones as markers for fitness games or to set up a goal for an indoor soccer game (using soft ball)
- Making nine cones and use as pins for DIY bowling
- For a construction or transportation party, include this traffic cone craft as a fun activity, use as decorations, or use as party favors
- Enjoy with a transportation or construction theme in your classroom, homeschool, co-op, or library event
More Fun and Frugal Crafts for Kids
Keep your craft fun going with these low- to no-cost ideas and activities that can be enjoyed any time of the year:
- Toilet paper roll dragon craft
- Heart-shaped toilet paper roll binoculars
- Paper plate umbrella
- Watermelon paper plate craft (that turns into a fan!)
- Kite suncatcher craft
⭐ How will you use this toilet paper roll traffic cone craft with your children? Do you have any questions about this activity for me? Please share (including your ideas) in the comments area at the bottom of this post!