If you’re looking for a simple, hands-on craft that will keep your kids happily engaged, this Crumpled Paper Llama Craft is just the thing! It’s fun, easy to set up, and full of creative possibilities, plus it helps kids work on fine motor skills without even realizing they’re learning.
Little hands will love crumpling the tissue paper to make their llama’s soft, fluffy coat, while moms and teachers will love how little mess this activity makes. Whether you’re planning a rainy-day project, a classroom art center activity, or an animal-themed craft week, this llama fits perfectly. It’s simple enough for preschoolers but creative enough to keep older kids entertained too!
What You’ll Need
- Llama Template- Download below or grab it from our membership library!
- Colored papers
- Craft tissue paper (cream or white works best)
- Cardstock paper
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Craft glue
- Sharpies
How to Make a Crumpled Paper Llama
Step 1:
Choose cream or white tissue paper for the llama’s fluffy body, cardstock for the base (body, ears, and tail), and colored craft paper for the inner ears and saddle. Trace the template onto your selected papers, then carefully cut out each piece.
Step 2:
Glue the inner ears to the outer ears to give your llama a cute layered look.
Step 3:
Attach the tail to the back of the llama’s body.
Step 4:
Cut several small squares of tissue paper — about 2 x 2 inches is perfect.
Step 5:
Now comes the fun part! Crumple each tissue square into a little ball. These will make your llama look soft and fluffy.
Step 6:
Make plenty of these crumpled paper balls, enough to cover the entire llama base (except for the ears).
Step 7:
Add glue to one section of the llama’s body and start sticking on the crumpled tissue paper balls.
Step 8:
Continue gluing the tissue balls together so there are no gaps.
Step 9:
Cover the whole body and legs until your llama looks nice and fluffy.
Step 10:
Add tissue paper balls around the edge of the head, but leave the middle open for the face.
Step 11:
Glue a few tissue balls along the top of the llama’s head for a “woolly hairdo,” then use a black Sharpie to draw a smiling face.
Step 12:
Attach the head to the body.
Step 13:
Finish by gluing on the hooves and ears. Add the colorful saddle piece on top — and your sweet little llama is ready to show off!
Why Kids (and You!) Will Love This Craft
This llama craft isn’t just adorable. It’s full of texture, creativity, and sensory fun. The simple crumpling motion is relaxing and satisfying, making it a great calming activity for kids. They can personalize their llamas with different saddle colors or even add accessories like bows or mini paper flowers.
Teachers love this craft because it’s low-prep, low-mess, and high-engagement, and parents love that it uses materials you probably already have at home. It’s also perfect for developing fine motor skills and creativity in a hands-on way.
Fun Ideas to Extend the Craft
- Turn your llamas into a classroom bulletin board display with a desert or mountain theme!
- Use them to create a “No Drama Llama” wall filled with kind messages from students.
- Attach your finished llama to a card and gift it to someone special.
- Challenge older kids to make a llama family with different sizes and colors!
Love Animals? Check out these other fun animal crafts!
Connection doesn’t have to be complicated. With our Print Play Fun Membership, you’ll have screen-free activities at your fingertips—ready to turn everyday moments into memories.
👉 PS. This printable is waiting for you inside the membership!
