Litter Bug
Turn trash into creativity with this fun Litter Bug craft for kids. This easy recycled craft is a great way to talk about reusing everyday materials and looking at “junk” in a whole new way. Each bug will come out a little different, which makes this project extra fun for classrooms, scout groups, or rainy day crafting at home.
Kids can use bits and pieces from around the craft room or recycling bin to build a silly, quirky bug of their own. This is a wonderful activity for Earth Day, recycling lessons, or anytime you want an easy craft that encourages imagination.
Supplies
- Newspaper
- String or yarn
- Straws
- Bottle caps
- Plastic lids
- Small recyclable odds and ends
- Tacky glue or low temperature glue gun
Instructions
- Crumple a piece of newspaper into a ball to make the bug’s body.
- Wrap another piece of newspaper around the ball to help hold the shape.
- Tie string or yarn around the newspaper ball to secure it.
- Glue on straws for legs or antennae.
- Add bottle caps, lids, and other small recycled items to create the bug’s eyes, wings, or decorations.
- Let kids use their imaginations to make each Litter Bug unique.
Tips
Try setting out a tray of clean recyclable materials and let kids choose their own pieces. This makes every bug look different and gives children a chance to be creative with shapes, textures, and colors.
Adult help may be needed if using a low temperature glue gun.
Patterns, Templates and Printables
Use the example photo as inspiration, then gather your own recyclable materials to design a one-of-a-kind Litter Bug.
Teacher Friendly Educational Extension
This recycled craft is a great way to introduce conversations about litter, reusing materials, and caring for the environment. Invite children to sort materials by type before crafting, such as paper, plastic, and metal. You can also ask them to describe how their bug was made and what materials they reused. This makes a fun Earth Day classroom activity that combines art, recycling awareness, and creative thinking.
Supplies
Trash (Newspaper, String, Straws, Bottle Tops, Caps)
Tacky Glue or Low Temp Glue Gun
Instructions
Crumple up a piece of newspaper. Wrap another piece around it.Wrap with string and tie off to hold newspaper in a ball.
Add straws, bottle tops, caps... anything to make it look like a litter bug. Use our picture as a reference, but use your imagination to make your own unique "bug".
Contributor
These projects are created by Terri, Betty, Jamie or one of the talented staff members at MakingFriends.com. They have been created exclusively for publication on FreeKidsCrafts.com with supplies you'll be able to find around your house.
