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3D Paper Dolphin Craft for Kids

May 14, 2020 by Selena Robinson Leave a Comment

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Atlanta is home to the Georgia Aquarium – one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world.

We’ve gotten to take our children there a few times and they were always thrilled to see such incredible marine animals up close.

One of the attractions there is a live dolphin show, which we got to attend. And that was when I learned that dolphins are incredible creatures.

They can be trained to do amazing stunts, they communicate with one another, and they are extremely intelligent.

Plus, they’re beautiful to look at.

I thought a dolphin-themed art activity would be a nice summer project for the kids, so here’s a 3D paper dolphin craft you can make with little ones!

Fun 3D Dolphin Craft for Kids

This is such a cool art project, because it stands up on its own. So kids can keep it after they’re done.

(Between you and me, our refrigerator door simply cannot hold any more works of art.)

Paper 3D Dolphin Craft for Kids

Get the full dolphin craft instructions below!

And, for another ocean art project, try our Coffee Filter Jellyfish Craft!

Make this fun and easy 3D paper dolphin craft for a fun art project to share with kids! Great for a summer art activity!

What Supplies Do You Need to Make a 3D Paper Dolphin Craft?

What I like the most about this dolphin craft is that you don’t need anything fancy to make it.

You probably already have the supplies from working on other crafts. No last-minute shopping trip needed!

Easy and Fun 3D Paper Dolphin Craft

To make this 3D paper dolphin craft, you’ll need the following: (This post contains affiliate links. For details, see our Disclosure Policy.)

  • Printer (with ink)
  • Printer Paper
  • Printable 3D Paper Dolphin Template
  • Ballpoint pen or pencil
  • Child-safe scissors
  • Construction paper
  • Glue stick
3D Dolphin Paper Craft Supplies

Start by downloading the Paper Dolphin Craft template. You’ll need this to print the shapes for making the dolphin.

After you’ve downloaded the printable, print it out on white paper. Then use scissors to cut out each piece.

How to Make a 3D Paper Dolphin Craft

Now it’s time to get crafting!

Use a pencil or a pen to trace each of the template shapes onto colored paper.

In this project, we used aqua for the body and inner fin, white for the belly, and green for the outer fin.

But you and the kids can use any color you like.

Simple 3D Paper Dolphin Craft

After you’ve traced each shape, cut it out.

If you’re using white for the belly, you can just keep the template shape you’ve cut instead of tracing it again.

How to Make a 3D Paper Dolphin

Start by gluing the belly onto the bottom curve of the dolphin’s “body”.

Making a Simple Paper Dolphin Craft

Stack the inner fin piece on top of the outer fin piece and glue it in the center of the dolphin’s side – on top of the belly.

Easy Paper Dolphin Craft for Kids

Glue the dolphin’s “eye” onto the head.

Add a shy smile with the ink pen, if you like.

Easy Paper Dolphin to Make With Kids

Now it’s time to make the “ocean”.

Trace the ocean template shape onto blue paper and trace a couple of the “waves” onto light blue paper. Cut them all out.

Fold the blue ocean paper in half horizontally. Then glue the waves onto the bottom edge of the “ocean”.

Cute Paper Dolphin Craft for Kids

Almost done!

Glue the dolphin onto the folded center line of the “ocean”. Make sure that the folded line squares with the dolphin’s middle.

The top of the dolphin should appear above the folded line.

How to Make a Dolphin 3D Craft

Fold the ocean in half again to make a triangular stand and you’re done!

Fun Dolphin Craft to Make with Kids

See how the dolphin stands up?

Simple 3D Paper Dolphin Craft for Kids

Let the kids make an entire pod of different-colored dolphins!

Easy 3D Paper Dolphin for Kids to Make

Don’t miss these other easy crafts for kids to make!

Make this easy toilet paper roll lion craft with the kids for a fun art activity!
This simple coffee filter jellyfish craft is a perfect easy summer craft for kids! Make a few with your little ones this summer!
Share an easy summer craft with the kids and make this easy paper ladybug craft! So fun for little hands!

Filed Under: Crafts Tagged With: crafts, crafts for kids, dolphins

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Hi! I'm Selena, a veteran teacher and homeschool mom to four. I'm so glad you're here!
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477 shares