Creating crafts with your kids is a wonderful way to spend time together, use some creativity, and learn about the world around us. One easy craft that includes all of this is the paper plate sunset craft, a simple, yet charming activity that blends art, nature, and science into one – and it’s even cooler, because the sun actually moves!
Let’s talk about this super cute sunset craft that you can enjoy with your little ones.
This easy-to-make paper plate sunset brings the beauty of the evening sky right into your hands, using materials you likely have at home.
For this sunset craft, you’ll need things you’ve probably got lying around the house. Grab a paper plate, which will be your backdrop for the sunset.
Then, pick out some red and yellow paint—acrylics are great because they mix well and kids love the bright colors.
You’ll also need construction paper, especially yellow for the sun and its rays. A popsicle stick will help your sun ‘set’ on the plate, and don’t forget the googly eyes to give your sun some character! (If you want eyes and don’t googly eyes to hand then try using our free printable eyes for crafts as a back up option)
A glue stick, scissors, and a marker are your basic craft tools for this project, and a bit of double-sided tape can come in handy for any tricky bits that need to stick together. It’s a straightforward set-up for a craft that’s as fun to make as it is educational.
How to make a Paper Plate Sunset Craft
This easy and fun activity uses everyday materials like paper plates, paints, and construction paper to create a vibrant sunset scene, perfect for teaching little ones about the natural beauty of sunsets and the importance of this time during Ramadan.
Not only is it a craft that encourages artistic expression, but it's also a meaningful way to engage with the traditions of breaking the fast, making it a splendid addition to your Ramadan activities
Materials
- Paper plate x 2
- Yellow Construction paper
- Popsicle stick
- Red and yellow paint
- Paint brush
- Glue stick or Double-sided tape
- Scissors
- Googly eyes
- Black Marker
Tools
- Free printable template (optional)
Instructions
- Start by capturing the essence of the sunset on your paper plate. Use red and yellow paint to create a gradient that mirrors the evening sky — yellow at the top fading into red at the bottom.
For those curious about the best paints to use, acrylics are vibrant and blend well. Speaking of blending, when you blend your sunset, imagine how the colors meld together in the sky, each stroke mixing like the clouds at dusk. - Now, let's add some landscape. Cut the bottom part of another paper plate to resemble rolling hills or distant mountains and attach it to your painted sunset. First, cut the paper plate in half
and then add shape. 
You might find scrunched tissue paper a useful extra if you want to add texture to your hills. - For the sun, cut a circle and small strips from the yellow paper to represent the sun and its rays,
or use our free printable sun shape outline template. Assemble these around the circle with a glue stick or tape 
which is a great opportunity to talk about the sun's role in creating a sunset's colors. - Bring your sun to life by adding googly eyes and a smiley face drawn with black marker
, and then mount it on a popsicle stick 
. This part is a hit with kids and adds a playful character to your sunset scene. With older kids, if they don't want the sun to have a smiley face just skip this step to make the end result look more serious. - Finally, insert the popsicle sun into the scene. Your sunset craft is now complete!
Notes
Optional sun outline template can be downloaded below at intheplayrom.co.uk
The Science of Sunsets
Now, while crafting, let’s sprinkle in some learning. Sunsets are not just beautiful; they are a canvas of science in action. The sky’s colors and vibrancy at sunset are determined by the scattering of light caused by the atmosphere.
When the sun is low, the light must pass through more air, which scatters the blue light and allows the reds and yellows to paint the sky.
Try comparing the different colors we see at sunrise and at sunset, and making two versions.
Sunset Art Inspiration and Poetry
Talk about what inspires you to make art? Is it the way the sunset light filters through the trees, casting a golden glow that seems almost magical? That’s often how artists feel when they create. Sunsets have inspired many artists, including the impressionists like Monet, who would capture the fleeting nature of light with quick brushstrokes and a harmony of colors.
And how would one describe a sunset? It’s like the day’s grand finale, a symphony of colors that dances across the sky, bidding the day farewell with a promise of another tomorrow.
Poetically, you might say a sunset is the day’s last whisper, a fiery curtain call, or nature’s kaleidoscope. Challenge the kids to think about how can you poetically describe a sunset and even write a few sentences to go along with this craft.
A sunset can be a metaphor for endings and beginnings, a reminder that every day can finish beautifully, no matter what has happened before.
For kids, crafting this paper plate sunset can be a gentle introduction to the art of metaphor and description.
Sunset Craft for Ramadan
This paper plate sunset craft is not only a creative project but also a beautiful way to celebrate the significance of sunset during Ramadan, making it a brilliant Ramadan craft to do with kids.
As the sun dips below the horizon, it signals the time to break the fast, making the moment of sunset a time of communal reflection and gratitude.
Crafting a sunset plate with your kids can serve as a delightful and educational activity to mark the iftar time, the evening meal, and engage them in the traditions of Ramadan in a colorful and memorable way.
As a Ramadan craft, I would probably skip the googly eyes but it’s up to you.
We also have mosque sunset paper plate craft that would go really nicely alongside, or our watercolor mosque at sunset art project.
It’s a craft that not only represents the beauty of the sky but also embodies the spirit of patience and the joy of breaking a day’s fast with family and loved ones.
For parents and educators, this craft is not just about creating a pretty picture. It’s an opportunity to discuss art, science, and nature. It encourages children to observe the world, ask questions, and express themselves creatively.
Free Printable Sun Outline Template PDF
To make this craft even easier, we have a free printable template for the sun shape available for download. So gather your materials, and let’s paint the sky with our very own sunsets.
You can make the sun shape freehand, but if you prefer to use a template then click below for your free instant digital download of our sunshine outline template.
Cut out and trace the shape to help with the sunset craft.
Terms of use: This sun template is free for personal use and classroom use / educational use.
Every piece of art tells a story. What will yours say?
More Paper Plate Crafts
If you enjoyed making these paper plate sunset crafts, then try some more of our easy paper plate crafts that are perfect for kids of all ages.
These are just a few of the easy paper plate crafts for kids we have here at In The Playroom.
- Paper Plate Printable Pizza Craft For Kids
- Paper Plate Flying Witch Craft
- Paper Plate Butterfly Life Cycle Craft
- Easy Paper Plate Ladybug Craft with Free Printable Template
- Paper Plate Turtle Craft With Free Printable Template (3D)
- Paper Plate Snow Globe Craft
And why not try out 25 Cheerful Sun Crafts for Toddlers
Happy crafting!
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.