Crafting with kids is a fun activity, and it’s also a chance to teach them about the world and inspire creativity. So what could be more exciting than bringing the essence of one of the coolest pets or zoo creatures into your home?

Today, let’s talk turtles – not the live ones, but adorable handprint turtles that can offer an afternoon of crafty entertainment.

Did you know that turtles have been around for over 200 million years, making them one of the most ancient creatures on our planet.

They carry their homes on their backs and live in almost every type of climate. Cool, right? While we adore the real thing, sometimes it’s fun to create our own version, and this handprint turtle craft is perfect for that.

The beauty of a handprint craft is that it’s personal. Every child’s handprint is unique, which means each turtle will have its own character, just like real turtles do.

If you make one each year, you can see how much your child has grown.

So, let’s get crafting!

Handprint Turtle Craft

Active Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Make your own easy papercraft handprint turtle with these easy step by step instructions and free printable template downloaded below.

Materials

Colored craft papers
Colored cardstock paper
Pencil
A pair of scissors
Googly eyes
Craft glue
Sharpies
Free Printable Template

Tools

Printer for the template if using

Instructions

Step 1:
This is a simple and fun craft. Select your colored craft papers for the head, handprint and shell border patterns; and select cardstock paper for the shell pattern. Trace the template patterns on the selected cardstock and craft papers. Use a pair of scissors to cut out the traced patterns nicely.
Step 2:
Take the shell cutout and select a sharpie of one shade darker than the shell’s color. Draw textures on the shell cutout.
Step 3:
Glue the border cutout along the bottom side of the (less curved side) shell pattern.
Step 4:
Glue the cardstock shell pattern on the palm’s side of the handprint layout. The thumb will be the neck of the turtle and the rest of the 4 fingers will be the legs of the turtle.
Step 5:
Use a sharpie to draw outline on the handprint layout.
Step 6:
Use sharpie to draw outline on the head cutout too and then glue the head cutout on the tip of the thumb.
Step 7:
Glue a googly eye on the head part.
Step 8:
Use a black sharpie or marker to draw the mouth-line of the handprint turtle to complete the craft.

Notes

Download PDF file below if using the template

Why stick to just one type? Change the colors and patterns, and you could have a whole family of turtles! If you shift from brown to blue and green, then you can easily change the pet turtle into a sea turtle.

Isn’t it wonderful how a few simple supplies can turn into an afternoon of fun and learning? This handprint craft is an easy win for any parent or educator looking for craft ideas, activities, or simply a moment of connection with their child.

Download Turtle Handprint Template PDF

You can draw the shapes freehand but if you prefer to use the template, then download the PDF file below to cut out the shapes used for this papercraft turtle.

Wrapping up, this handprint turtle craft is an easy and fun way to keep the kids busy and let their creativity run wild.

It’s a straightforward project with room for personal touches, making it a perfect fit for children of all ages. Not only do they end up with a cute craft to display, but they also get the satisfaction of having made it themselves.

Simple, enjoyable, and mess-friendly – this craft is a win for both kids and parents. So grab your supplies and get crafting; your very own handprint turtle is just a few snips and strokes away!

More Animal Crafts for Kids

Check our collection of animal crafts perfect for kids who love exploring the wild side of their creativity. From fluttering butterflies to majestic lions, find the perfect project to spark their imagination and bring the animal kingdom into your home.

Handprint Lion Craft for Kids

More Handprint Crafts for Kids

Check out our fun selection of handprint crafts that turn your child’s palm prints into art. These projects are not just adorable and easy to make, but they’re also great keepsakes.

Easy Handprint Bouquet Craft

Pin these crafts to your Pinterest board for a handy reference when you’re ready to create some lasting memories with paint, paper, and a little bit of imagination!

In The Playroom

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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.