Dragonfly Paper Roll Craft

When it comes to bug crafts, dragonflies are the ultimate show-offs. They’re colorful, zippy, and always manage to look just a little magical. This dragonfly paper roll craft lets kids take a plain old toilet paper roll and transform it into a cheerful insect with bright wings, antennae, and big googly eyes.
It’s the kind of project that’s perfect for spring afternoons, summer camps, or even as part of a recycled crafts unit. Bonus: you’re giving that cardboard tube a brand-new life before it heads to the recycling bin.
Jump to Supplies Steps Printable More crafts
What You’ll Need for This Dragonfly Craft
Print-ready templates and step-by-step instructions.
Less prep, more crafting.
How to Make a Dragonfly Paper Roll Craft

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Gather your supplies: toilet paper rolls, paint, googly eyes, pipe cleaners, paper, scissors, marker, and glue.

Step 2: Paint the Roll
Paint your toilet paper roll in a bright color (like aqua or pink). Let it dry.

Step 3: Add Polka Dots
Use a sponge dabber to add polka dots or fun designs to the painted roll.

Step 4: Trace the Wings
Trace a dragonfly wing template onto construction paper.

Step 5: Cut Out the Wings
Cut out the wings.

Step 6: Outline the Wings
Use a black marker to outline the wings and add simple details.

Step 7: Make the Antennae
Cut a pipe cleaner in half and curl the ends to form antennae.

Step 8: Add the Antennae and Eyes
Glue the antennae inside the top of the paper roll.
Add googly eyes to the front of the roll with glue.

Step 9: Add the Wings and Cheeks
Attach the paper wings to the back of the roll using glue.
Use pink paint and the end of a pencil eraser to dab on rosy cheeks.

Step 10: Draw the Smile
Draw a big smiling mouth with the black marker to complete your dragonfly’s face.
All done!
Let everything dry completely before playing with or displaying your dragonfly!

We'd love to see yours! Snap a photo and share it in the comments.
Grab the Printable
Skip the prep and grab the print-ready templates for this craft from my shop.
Mix and match to save 35%. Add any 10 items to your cart and get 35% off your whole order. Ready-made sets count as one item.

More Bug Crafts for Kids













































See all Bug Activities for Kids →
Please Share This Dragonfly Paper Roll Craft
Your shares are what keep this site growing, and I’m truly grateful. If you know someone who’d love this recycled bug craft, please share it on Facebook or pin it to your favorite kids’ craft board on Pinterest!







