These paper umbrellas are absolutely adorable, and they pop up in the most delightful way! This 3D umbrella craft is bright, cheerful, and is a perfect way to add some colour to a rainy day. It’s easy enough for kids to make, and the finished umbrella pop-up card is super satisfying to open, close, and show off.
Whether you’re looking for a spring craft, a weather-themed classroom project, or just a creative rainy day activity, this paper umbrella craft is a hit. Kids will love picking their favourite colours, folding the umbrella pieces, and watching their pop-up masterpiece come together!
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How to Make a 3D Umbrella Craft
Materials:
- FREE Printable Umbrella Craft Template
- Cardstock (white and multiple colours)
- Plastic bendy straw(s)
- Q-tips
Equipment:
Watch the step-by-step video tutorial:
Instructions:
Step 1: Find what you need
- Gather your supplies and materials.
Step 2: Cut the umbrella pieces
- Print our free 3D umbrella craft template (find the link in the materials list above!) and cut out the shapes.
- Trace the clouds onto white cardstock and the umbrella onto your choice of coloured cardstock. Cut the shapes from the cardstock.
- Fold the umbrella shape in half from right to left.
- Repeat, using the template to cut 6 other umbrella shapes from coloured cardstock (we used 2 different colours).Fold these in half as well.
Step 3: Attach the umbrella pieces
- Add glue tape to the top of a folded umbrella shape (the straight edge should be on the right).
- Place another folded umbrella on top of the first, lining up all the edges neatly.
- Repeat until the rest of the pieces are connected. If you’re using 2 different colours for your umbrella, alternate them.
Step 4: Attach the umbrella to your card
- Fold a piece of cardstock in half. We used blue to represent the sky.
- Cut off an inch from the short part of the straw, just past the bendy bit.
- Add a line of hot glue to the center of the card.
- Place the straw into the glue with the bendy part at the bottom and facing up from the paper.
- Add glue tape to one side of the umbrella bundle and attach it to the card, about 1/4 inch (or a bit less) away from the straw.
- Apply more glue tape to the top of the bundle and carefully close the card, pressing down to align the umbrella perfectly.
Step 5: Add fun details to the card
- Use glue tape to attach the clouds on either side of the umbrella.
- Cut both ends off a Q-tip. Repeat so you have 6 to 8 “rain drops.”
- Attach the cotton swab ends randomly across the card (but not under the umbrella!) with tacky glue.
- Your 3D umbrella craft is complete!
Helpful Tips:
- If you want a fuller umbrella, try using 8 or 9 folded pieces instead of 7.
- Print the template (find the link below!) at a larger scale to make a bigger paper umbrella!
Get our free printable umbrella craft template:
The link below will take you to our free, printable cloud and umbrella templates! The PDF file will open in a new window. Then simply print the template on 8.5 x 11 (letter size) printer paper or cardstock.
>>> Umbrella Craft Template <<<
What type of paper is needed to make this paper umbrella?
We recommend using cardstock, since it holds its shape better and makes for a sturdier pop-up umbrella. It also works well for the card or background.
But construction paper is easier for younger kids to fold and cut, and will definitely still work. Printer paper is another good option. And older kids may want to make the umbrella from patterned scrapbook paper for a more decorative look.
What’s the best glue to use for this umbrella craft?
Glue tape works really well for the umbrella and clouds, because it’s mess-free and sticks immediately. For the straw and raindrops, though, we recommend using hot glue and/or tacky glue. This gives a stronger hold on the non-paper elements.
What can I use instead of Q-tips for the raindrops on my umbrella card?
There are so many fun options to switch up the raindrops on your umbrella craft! Try using blue glitter glue, tiny pom poms, sequins, or even flat-back gems for a sparkly twist.
You can also draw the rain onto the paper with metallic gel pens or puffy paint for added texture.
This 3D umbrella craft is such a cheerful and hands-on paper activity for kids. Whether you’re doing a weather unit, celebrating spring, or just looking for a rainy day distraction, this sweet little pop-up card is sure to brighten your day!
Here’s even more spring craft ideas:
Now available
Low-Mess Crafts for Kids Book
72 cute and fun crafts that kids and parents alike can enjoy. All with as little mess as possible!
Where to buy:
You can purchase Low-Mess Crafts for Kids from Amazon, or wherever books are sold:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million | Indiebound | Amazon Canada
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