Want a simple craft that still lets kids get creative?

This easy paper plate butterfly includes a free PDF template and lets kids mix and match colors, patterns, and shapes to create something unique every time. It’s perfect for preschool, pre-k, and kindergarten, and even toddlers can join in with a little extra help.

Multiple butterflies made out of paper plates.

Why use paper plates for crafts?

It’s not just about convenience; it’s about helping kids see everyday items in a new light. When they transform something as simple as a paper plate into a butterfly, it encourages creative thinking and demonstrates that they can create something amazing from ordinary materials.

Page Contents

Tools & Materials

Printer
Template (download at the end of the article – no subscription required)
9-inch paper plate
Scissors
White cardstock
Paint
Glue
Black marker (optional)
Googly eyes/pompoms (optional)
Crayons or markers (optional)

Materials for making a paper plate butterfly

Step 1 – Print Paper Plate Butterfly Template

This template comes in two versions: a full-color version and a black-and-white version for coloring. You can also use the black-and-white version to print parts on different-colored paper, which is a great way to save ink and skip coloring.

For this step-by-step tutorial, I decided to use the full-color version.

Inside the template, you will find two different wing shapes and inner patterns. There’s also a “Mix & Match” page that shows you different ways you can assemble the butterfly. I recommend showing this page to your little ones and having them pick their favorite style, then printing the pages you need.

Printed paper plate butterfly PDF template

Step 2 – Paint Paper Plate

Start by painting the paper plate, since it takes the longest to dry. While it dries, you can cut and prepare the rest of the pieces so everything is ready to assemble once the plate is dry.

Step 3 – Cut & Trace

It’s time to cut your template!

Eyes and mouth can be a bit tricky to cut. I’ve included them if you feel confident, but you can also use googly eyes or draw them with a black marker.

Fold the paper plate in half and align the straight edge of the butterfly template with the folded side, then trace the shape.
Keeping the plate folded, carefully cut along the traced line to form the butterfly wings.
Open the paper plate to reveal your butterfly shape.

Step 4 – Assemble Butterfly

Ready to put the butterfly together?

Paper Plate Butterfly ready to be assembled.

I went with the flow and just used my imagination; I didn’t really use the “Assembly Ideas” page this time! You can also do that, too!

Glue the first wing pattern pieces onto the paper plate, following the shape of the wings.
Glue the body in the center, leaving a small area at the top unglued so you can tuck the antennae in.

Slide the antennae into the unglued space at the top of the body, add a little glue, and press down to secure them.
Add the spots to the wings, placing them wherever you like to decorate your butterfly.
Finish the paper plate butterfly by adding the face details using the templates, googly eyes, or a marker.

Other Paper Plate Butterfly Ideas

Get creative and try different color combinations, patterns, and shapes to make each butterfly unique. Mix and match the wing templates, spots, and body pieces to create new designs every time. There’s no right or wrong way.

There’s only one rule: have fun!

Download the Free Template

As mentioned above, you can download the free paper plate butterfly template here. Click the image to open in a new tab or the yellow button below to download the PDF printable to your computer.

You’re welcome to print as many copies as you need for personal, family, or classroom use, but please don’t sell them, share the PDF directly (share the link to this post instead), or claim the designs as your own.