As summer rolls in, bringing with it the vibrant celebrations of the 4th of July, what better way to engage little hands and boost some explosive creativity than with a fun, easy-to-make firework craft?
Whether you’re gearing up for Independence Day or simply looking for a sparkling art project to brighten a weekend, this paper cup firework craft is perfect for kids of all ages and can be easily accomplished at home or in school settings.

Materials Needed for this easy Firework Craft
The simplicity of the materials—a humble paper cup, your usual paint supplies, and basic crafting tools—ensures that this project is accessible and affordable.
It’s a fantastic way to repurpose household items like paper cups into something spectacular.
You can even use a recycled popsicle stick from all of your summer popsicles, and any kind of paint will work fine.

- Orange and yellow paint (or colors of your choice)
- Paintbrush
- Glue stick
- Scissors
- Popsicle stick
- Paper cup
- Fuzzy wire (pipe cleaner)
- Optional – glitter for extra sparkle
Paper Cup Firework Craft
Ignite your child's creativity with this vibrant and easy DIY firework craft! Using simple materials like paper cups, paint, and fuzzy wires, kids can create dazzling paper fireworks that are perfect for celebrating the 4th of July or any festive occasion.
This craft is a fantastic way to develop fine motor skills while having fun with colors and decorations. Perfect for all ages, it’s an ideal project for both home and school settings.
Materials
- Orange and yellow paint
- Paintbrush
- Glue stick
- Scissors
- Popsicle stick
- Paper cup
- Fuzzy wire (pipe cleaner)
- (Optional) glitter
Instructions
- Prepare the Paper Firework: Start by cutting strips around the paper cup.
Make sure these strips are even to mimic the explosive dazzle of fireworks. Once cut, spread out the strips,
and then paint the strips alternately with vibrant orange and yellow, or colors of your choice.
These colors not only represent the fiery hues of July fireworks but also add a pop of brightness that kids will love. - Add Sparkle with Fuzzy Wire: Once your painted strips have dried, curl a piece of fuzzy wire pipe cleaner to create a dynamic, spiraled center.
. Attach this curled wire to the center of the painted paper cup, so that it stands out as the core burst of your firework. 
- Final Touches: To complete your firework craft, fix a popsicle stick to the back of the paper cup.
This stick acts as a handle, making your paper fireworks easy to display or parade around during a celebration. 
This craft is not just an easy and fun activity but also a great learning tool, encouraging kids to explore their artistic talents while developing fine motor skills through cutting, painting, and assembling.
For parents and teachers, this firework craft is perfect for celebrating the 4th of July, New Year’s, or any festive occasion, these homemade fireworks promise a burst of joy and color.

Some more occasions which celebrate with fireworks include bonfire night in the UK (5th November), the Hindu festival of Diwali which normally comes around October or November, New Years Eve in 31st December and Chinese New Year which tends to come in January or February.
You can change up the colors to theme this easy firework craft for any of these holidays.
Adding glitter is also a really fun way to make this firework craft even more sparkly, and you can even experiment with using patterned party cups instead of painting. How about metallic party cups with gold and silver designs?

So, gather your supplies, spread out your crafting table, and let the fun begin!
This easy and enjoyable project is sure to light up the faces of young crafters and add a spark to your seasonal celebrations. Happy crafting!
Another super easy way to make firework pictures for 4th July is with toilet paper roll stamped fireworks.
More 4th July Crafts and Activities
Celebrate Independence Day with a treasure trove of creative crafts and engaging activities perfect for the whole family! From patriotic DIY decorations to festive games, we’ve got plenty to keep the holiday spirit high.
- 4th July uncle sam paper plate craft
- Happy 4th July Free Printable Banner
- Free Printable 4th July Hat Craft For Kids
- 4th July Color by Number Pages for Kids
- Handprint American Flag 4th of July Craft
More Firework Crafts and Activities
Light up your crafting with our collection of firework-themed projects! Whether you’re looking for colorful art pieces or explosive DIY activities, we have something that will sparkle and dazzle.
- How To Draw Fireworks Step by Step Free Printable
- Playdough Fireworks (Free Printable Playdough Mats)
- Free Printable Fireworks Colouring Pages for Kids
- Coloured Sand Fireworks Pictures
- Spinning Top Fireworks Painting
- Spinning Top Fireworks Painting
If you enjoyed making our paper cup fireworks craft, please consider sharing this blog post on Pinterest to inspire others with fun and festive ideas!

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