When my daughter was little, we spent countless rainy afternoons crafting together, often with whatever we could find around the house or at the local dollar store. I loved seeing her creativity spark from the simplest supplies. It reminded me of crafting with my mom!
This Craft Stick Turtle is exactly the kind of project we would’ve made. It’s quick, easy, and so full of personality! Whether you’re crafting with your own kids, grandkids, or a classroom full of little artists, this turtle craft is a budget-friendly win that brings big smiles.
Easy Dollar Tree Turtle Craft for Kids
Whether you’re doing an ocean animal theme in your homeschool unit or just want a quick summer craft for kids, this turtle fits right in. This craft not only sparks creativity but also helps develop fine motor skills and introduces basic concepts of geometry and symmetry.
What You’ll Need for This Simple Kids’ Turtle Craft:
Disclosure: Some of the links in the post below are affiliate links provided for your convenience. This means that if you purchase something through one of these links, I get a small commission at no added cost to you.
- Craft Sticks, Jumbo
- Googly Eyes
- Craft Felt – Dark Green
- Green Buttons, assorted
- Marker, Black
- Glue Gun and Glue Sticks – Low Temp Works Best
- Acrylic Craft Paint – Bright Green
- Paintbrush
- Scissors
- PATTERN
How to Make a Craft Stick Turtle:
STEP ONE
Gather all supplies. To create the turtle, line up six jumbo craft sticks on your work surface. Using scissors, trim additional jumbo craft sticks to the width of the turtle and attach with a glue gun and glue sticks. Cut a regular craft stick in half with scissors and glue to the top of the turtle.
STEP TWO
Basecoat the turtle with bright green acrylic craft paint. Let dry, and apply a second coat, if necessary. Use washable markers, crayon, or even colored pencil to color the jumbo craft sticks.
STEP THREE
Download, print, and cut out the turtle patterns. Trace all patterns onto dark green craft felt with a black marker.
STEP FOUR
Cut out all the patterns with scissors. Make sure to cut inside the traced lines so you end up with a clean finished project.
STEP FIVE
Attach the head to the top and the tail to the bottom of the turtle with a glue gun and glue sticks. Glue the large and small flippers onto the right and left sides of the turtle’s body.
STEP SIX
Attach two wiggle eyes to the turtle’s head with a glue gun and glue sticks.
STEP SEVEN
Attach assorted green buttons to the turtle’s shell with a glue gun and glue sticks. Pick interesting buttons in a variety of shades of green.
STEP EIGHT
To finish, outline the turtle’s head, tail, and flippers with a black marker.
FAQs for This Simple Kids’ Turtle Craft
Can I use regular glue instead of a glue gun?
Yes! Liquid craft glue works fine — just be sure to allow extra drying time.
Can this craft be adapted for younger kids?
Absolutely! Pre-cut the felt pieces ahead of time, and swap the glue gun for washable glue for little hands.
Do I need to use buttons?
Not at all. You can substitute paper circles, pom poms, or even stickers to decorate the turtle shell.
Is there a printable pattern included?
Yes! Scroll up to download and print the turtle patterns to trace onto your felt.
I hope this sweet little turtle craft brings a bit of fun and creativity to your day! If you give it a try, I’d love to see how yours turned out.
Feel free to tag me on Facebook or Instagram or drop me a comment below. Don’t forget to grab the free printable pattern and save this idea for your next craft session.
Looking for more budget-friendly crafts? Be sure to check out my other kids’ craft ideas and Dollar Store DIYs!
Love this idea? Pin it now so you’ll have it handy for your next rainy day or summer craft session! Your future self will thank you.
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