Paper Plate Axolotl Craft

Paper plate crafts are always fun, and this adorable paper plate axolotl craft is sure to make kids smile.

This craft transforms a simple paper plate into a cheerful axolotl with bright colors and playful gills.

Kids who love unique animals will especially enjoy making this project, and it’s a great way to introduce them to this fascinating creature.

The free printable pattern makes it easy to cut out the pieces, while the simple materials ensure it’s a project anyone can do at home or in the classroom.

Children of all ages will love this axolotl craft!

Preschoolers can enjoy painting and gluing the pieces with a little help, while older kids can take their time adding fun details and customizing their axolotl with their favorite colors and embellishments.

Teachers, parents, and group leaders will also appreciate that this is a low-prep paper plate craft that is both educational and fun.

When to Make an Axolotl Craft

Make it during an ocean or amphibian unit study as a creative way to bring science to life.

It’s also a great rainy-day activity at home when kids need something fun to keep their hands busy.

If you’re planning a birthday party with an animal or under-the-sea theme, this craft makes an excellent group activity or party favor.

Kids who love book characters or video games featuring axolotls will also enjoy creating their very own version of the creature.

You’ll love this craft because it’s a mix of creativity and learning.

The free pattern makes it simple to create, while the decorating options mean no two axolotls ever have to look the same.

It’s budget-friendly, fun for all ages, and results in a cheerful finished craft that kids will be proud to display.

Fun and Easy Tips for Making Your Axolotl Craft

Instead of paint, kids can use markers or crayons to color their paper plates.
Use craft foam or craft felt in place of the paper details.
The chenille stems we used for the gills can be swapped out for other materials like pompoms, embossed paper, or craft felt for a different texture and look.
We used wiggle eyes in the tutorial, but you could also draw or paint eyes instead.
Change up the colors to design a truly unique axolotl, and add embellishments like sequins or glitter if you’d like extra sparkle.
While we used a hot glue gun for ease in the tutorial, craft glue works just as well and may be better for younger kids.

Ready to begin? Grab your free printable pattern and follow along with the step-by-step directions to make your own paper plate axolotl craft.

How to Make an Axolotl with a Paper Plate

Materials:

Paper Plate
Craft Paint – Light Pink, Bright Pink
Bright Pink Chenille Stems
Cardstock or Craft Paper – Light Pink, Bright Pink
Craft Glue or a Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
Sponge Dabber
Paintbrush
Scissors
Black Marker
Printed Paper Plate Axolotl Pattern

Instructions:

Paint the the inside of the paper plate light pink craft paint. Set aside to dry and apply a second coat, if necessary.

Download and print the Axolotl Patterns, then cut out with scissors.

Trace the head pattern onto the paper plate with a pencil. Cut out with scissors.

Attach two wiggle eyes with glue.

Create cheeks by dipping a sponge dabber into bright pink craft paint and stamping on either side of the face.

Trace the outer gills twice onto light pink paper and trace the inner gills six times onto bright pink paper.

Cut out the Axolotl pieces with scissors.

Attach the bright pink inner gills to the light pink outer gills with glue.

Trim any excess bright pink cardstock with scissors.

Cut two bright pink chenille stems into six pieces with scissors. Attach one chenille stem to the center of each inner gill with glue.

Glue the gills to the right and left sides of the back of the paper plate axolotl with glue.

To finish, draw a smile from cheek to cheek with a black marker.

This paper plate axolotl craft is a fun and memorable activity that kids will enjoy making and showing off. With endless ways to customize, it’s a project you can return to again and again for fresh results.