Looking for a fun and easy upcycled craft? This DIY paper roll cat is the purr-fect project for cat lovers and craft enthusiasts alike! With just a few simple supplies, you can transform an ordinary cardboard tube into an adorable feline friend.
Whether you create a classic black cat, a playful tabby, or a vibrant rainbow kitty, the creative possibilities are endless. Use your finished toilet paper roll cats as cute shelf decorations, desk buddies, or even as unique party decor for a cat-themed birthday celebration.
Line up a whole litter in different colours and patterns, or craft a seasonal set to match holidays and special occasions. However you style them, this charming DIY cat craft is sure to be a hit! Thanks to Bertille Argueyrolles for the adorable idea!
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How to Make a Paper Roll Cat
Materials:
Equipment:
Watch the step-by-step video tutorial:
Instructions:
Step 1: Find what you need
- Gather your supplies and materials.
Step 2: Print and cut the template pieces
- Print the paper roll cat template (find the link in the materials list above!) and cut out the pieces.
- Trace the pattern pieces onto cardboard and cut them out.
Step 3: Paint the cat
- Paint a design on your cat. Paint spots, stripes, or make your cat one solid colour. Let the paint dry.
- Once the paint is dry, use a lighter colour to add the ear details.
- Use a permanent marker to draw a face on the cat.
Step 4: Assemble the cat
- Cut a toilet paper roll in half. Each cat uses only 1/2 a roll, so you can make 2 cats from one paper roll.
- Place the paper roll in the center of the back piece of cardboard and trace inside. This gives you an idea of where to glue the paper roll.
- Add a small amount of hot glue to the end of the paper roll half.
- Place the roll onto the back of the cat, aligning it where you marked it to go.
- Add glue to the other side of the paper roll and attach to the front of the cat. Make sure the legs are level when you attach this piece so the cat won’t wobble.
Step 5: Add the tail
- Bend the top of the tail back slightly and add a dot of hot glue to the bottom part.
- Attach the tail to the back of the cat.
- Your paper roll cat is complete!
- Now have fun making a whole litter of cute paper roll kitties in all different colours and patterns!
Helpful Tips:
- Decorate without paint: If you don’t want to use paint and wait for it to dry, try paint markers instead! While they may not be as vibrant as acrylic paint on cardboard, they still work well and are a mess-free alternative — perfect for kids or quick crafting sessions.
- Our printable paper roll cat template isn’t just for cats! You can use it to craft other pointy-eared animals, such as: a dog (like a Corgi or Chihuahua), a fox (just shape the tail like a flower petal!), or a pig (add a curled tail!).
Get our free printable paper roll cat template:
The link and picture below will take you to our free, printable paper roll cat template! 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.
>>> Paper Roll Cat Template <<<
What type of paint works best to make a paper roll cat craft?
We recommend using acrylic craft paint because it’s affordable, easy to find (check your local craft store or dollar store), and is quick-drying with good coverage.
If you’re making this craft with kids, use washable, non-toxic paint or let them colour their kitties with washable markers or crayons for a low-mess option.
Can I use coloured paper instead of cardboard for my paper roll cat craft?
We don’t recommend using regular coloured paper because it’s too thin to support the toilet paper roll structure. However, heavy cardstock might work.
If you don’t want to paint or colour the cardboard, you can trace the template onto both cardboard and coloured paper. Then glue the coloured paper onto the cardboard. This keeps the strength of the cardboard while achieving uniform colour without painting.
Other creative ways to decorate your toilet paper roll cat:
Want to take your paper roll cat craft to the next level? Try these fun decoration ideas:
- Add a ribbon or pipe cleaner collar for extra charm.
- Use gem stickers or sequins for sparkly eyes, or glue on googly eyes for a silly expression.
- Cut a tiny felt tongue for an adorable look.
- Make a tiny blanket from felt or scrap fabric.
- Use a shoebox or Kleenex box to create a cat carrier or bed for your kitty. This is perfect for imaginative pretend play!
These DIY paper roll cats are the purr-fect way to upcycle materials while crafting something adorable. Whether you’re making them for a kids craft activity, a cat-themed birthday party, or just a rainy day project, they’re an easy way to get creative.
Have fun creating a whole clowder of colourful paper roll cats to brighten up your space. However you choose to display them, these handmade felines are sure to bring a little charm, creativity, and whole lot of cat-titude to any room!
Here’s even more cat 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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