Cardboard Tube Butterflies

let's make it!

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: Paint the tube

   Paint the outside of the tube in one color and let it dry for about 20 minutes. Two thin coats cover better than one thick coat.

2. 2

   Step 2: Draw and cut the wings

   Fold a piece of cardstock in half. Draw half a butterfly shape against the fold, then cut it out and unfold for perfectly matching wings.

3. 3

   Step 3: Decorate the wings

   Add dots, stripes or patterns with paint, markers or stickers. Matching patterns on both sides look striking, but there's no wrong way to do it.

4. 4

   Step 4: Attach the wings

   Run a line of glue down the back of the tube and press the center of the wings onto it. Hold for 30 seconds.

5. 5

   Step 5: Add antennae

   Fold a pipe cleaner in half, curl the ends around a pencil, and tape or glue the fold inside the top of the tube.

Variations to try

Frequently asked questions