Whooo’s Crafty? Let’s make a Paper Plate Owl! It’s a perfect fall craft to keep kids busy and entertained!

If you’re looking for an adorable and easy craft for kids, this paper plate owl is a real hoot! Using just a simple paper plate, some paint, and a bit of colorful paper, kids can create their very own wise little owl. It’s a perfect fall or classroom craft — fun, mess-friendly, and full of personality.
What You’ll Need
- 1 paper plate
- Paint (browns, oranges, yellows — or any colors you like!)
- Paintbrushes
- Colored paper (for eyes and beak)
- Glue stick
- Scissors
- Black marker (optional, for details)
I like the thin, inexpensive paper plates that have texture along the edges (found at Walmart for two dollars). I think it looks like feathers when they are folded up. You can also just cut a circle out of colored paper.

How to Make Your Owl
1. Fold the Paper Plate
Start with a plain paper plate. Fold in both sides slightly toward the center leaving the center of the plate exposed. This creates the owl’s “wings.” Then fold down the top just a bit to form the head. You’ll already see your owl beginning to take shape! I added a little glue to keep the wings and head in place.

2. Paint the owl
Now it’s time to bring your owl to life with color! Paint the entire folded plate. You can go with classic owl tones like brown and tan, or get creative with bright blues, pinks, or even gold. Let your owl’s personality shine! Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on.

3. Make the Eyes and Beak
Cut out two large circles from colored paper for the eyes. Then, cut two smaller black circles for the pupils and glue them in place. For the beak, cut a small triangle from orange or yellow paper. Glue the eyes and beak onto the “head” flap of your owl. I also cut out two claws.

I do have a printable here if you don’t want to freehand it!

4. Add Finishing Touches
Once everything is glued and dry, you can add extra details with a marker — maybe some feather lines, eyelashes, or even little talons. Every owl can be one-of-a-kind!


Craft Tips
- Try using patterned paper for the eyes or wings for extra texture and color.
- Add googly eyes instead of paper ones for a fun, wiggly look.
- Punch a hole at the top and add a string to hang your owl in a window or classroom display.
This paper plate owl is simple, fun, and full of charm — perfect for preschoolers and young artists. Whether you make one or a whole flock, these feathery friends are sure to make everyone smile.
Save for later
Too busy to get crafting today? No problem! Pin this post to remind yourself about this project later! Sharing my projects helps me reach more people, allowing me to continue sharing free content!

OTHER totally cute Halloween projects
- ghost and candy corn garland
- Halloween cut files
- Creepy Doormat
- Pool noodle candles
- Halloween sensory game
- Yard monsters
- Halloween play doh printables
- Trivia game (free printable)
- DIY spell Book
- Halloween golf
- Classroom party games
- Spooky dinner ideas with free printables
- mummy door for your front door board
- DIY witch’s broom
- Table decorations for Halloween
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