A simple-to-make paper plate ladybug puppet. Each ladybug is made from two paper plates, paint, and construction paper.

Estimated Time: 30 minutes
Supplies Needed:
  • Two paper plates for each ladybug
  • Scissors
  • Stapler or tape (colored tape looks nice but isn't necessary)
  • Red and black paint, markers, or crayons
  • Glue
  • Black construction paper
  • Pipe cleaner
  • Hole punch
  • Optional – Googly eyes

Instructions

1.

Using black construction paper, cut out the ladybug’s legs (cut two sets of three legs).

The ladybug's paper legs.
2.

Staple (or tape) two paper plates together (put the eating surfaces of the plates on the inside). Make sure to staple the legs between the plates. Don’t staple the plates all the way round – leave one end of the ladybug unstapled.

Stapling the paper to the paper plates.
3.

Cut off the rim of the plates where they were not stapled (or taped) – this is where you’ll put your hand to move the ladybug.

Cutting the paper plates.Cut the paper plates.
4.

Paint the top of the ladybug red (except the head, which is black). Paint the bottom of the ladybug black. Either paint some black dots on the ladybug or glue some black circles on its back.

Either paint eyes or glue on googly eyes.

A painted paper ladybug.
5.

Punch two holes at the top for the antennae. Thread a pipe cleaner through the holes.

You now have a really cute ladybug puppet!

The finished ladybug puppet.