When it comes to handmade gifts, it’s the heart behind them that makes them shine. This easy DIY paper trophy craft is a simple way for kids to celebrate someone special – whether it’s Dad, Mom, a grandparent, or even a favorite teacher.
Made mostly from a toilet paper roll and a little imagination, this idea is budget-friendly, easy to personalize, and full of charm. It’s the kind of keepsake that brings big smiles and gets proudly displayed on the shelf! I used to make similar crafts as a classroom Father’s Day project when I was a teacher.
Easy Paper Trophy Made with a Toilet Paper Roll
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Supplies needed for your cardboard tube trophy:
- Paint – Yellow, gold, or silver for the trophy. You could also cut small pieces of aluminum foil and glue those on to cover the trophy instead of painting it. You may want some paint for the base as well.
- Paintbrushes.
- Craft paper – construction paper or cardstock work well here. We used an orangish/golden yellow but you can choose any color you’d like.
- Pencil.
- Fine tipped markers – we used black and orange.
- Scissors.
- Glue. – white craft glue works well. We used tacky glue.
- Toilet Paper Roll.
- Cardboard for the base. – You can use scrap cardboard like an old cereal box and paint it the color you’d like or use cardstock for this. Just make sure it’s a stiff enough cardstock to hold its shape. Instead of making the base, find a small box or purchase one at the dollar store. A large matchbox or something similar with a “drawer” in it is a fun idea. You can write little messages and place them in the drawer as something extra special.
- Pattern template
Step-by-step instructions for making this simple recycled craft for kids:
Step 1:
Grab your toilet paper roll and press it gently to make it a little bit flatter.
Step 2:
Use the PDF template to trace the trophy shape on the toilet paper roll. Cut out the pieces you have traced.
Step 3:
Use the extra cut out pieces to cut out the handles for the trophy. You can also make them out of cardboard, cardstock, or construction paper.
You can also cut one section of an egg carton and glue that down inside the trophy. Another option is to create a little paper pocket to fit down inside. This can then hold candy or some other little gift.
Step 4:
Paint the toilet paper roll pieces that you cut out as well as the cardboard handles with the yellow, gold, or silver paint. Repeat with as many coats as needed to ensure coverage. Paint the inside of the trophy too if you would like to.
Step 5:
Once completely dry, glue the two handles on both sides of the trophy cut out. .
Step 6:
Cut a circle using whatever color paper you have chosen and use the number “1” template to trace the shape on the paper.
Step 7:
Use a fine tipped marker to draw an outline on the round paper.
Step 8:
Glue the number “1” sign on the trophy.
Step 9:
Cut out a piece of cardboard according to the free template to use for the base for the trophy.
Step 10:
Glue the corners together to make a box shape with the cardboard.
Step 11:
Glue the toilet paper roll trophy onto the base and your gift is ready for giving.
FAQs:
Can I use materials other than a toilet paper roll?
Absolutely! Paper towel rolls, cardstock, or even construction paper rolled into a tube can work as alternatives.
How can I personalize the trophy?
Decorate it with the recipient’s name, add stickers, rhinestones, or use glitter to make it unique.
What can I place inside the trophy?
Small candies, notes, or our free printable Father’s Day coupons fit perfectly inside the trophy.
Is this craft suitable for classroom activities?
Yes! It’s a simple, inexpensive, and engaging project that’s perfect for group settings like classrooms or workshops.
Crafting heartfelt gifts like this paper trophy not only sparks creativity but also creates cherished memories. Whether it’s for Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, or just to celebrate someone special, this DIY project is sure to bring smiles.
Ready to add more special touches to your gift? Download our free printable Father’s Day coupons – perfect for tucking inside the trophy! These coupons offer fun, personalized promises that any parent would treasure.
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Pin for later:
Love this easy kids’ craft? Share it with others! Pin this project to one of your Pinterest boards so you can easily find it later and help others discover this fun DIY idea.
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