Nature crafts are always a hit around here, and this pinecone fish craft is one of those projects that feels extra satisfying to make. Pine cones are such an amazing material for crafts – they already have so much texture and character that half the work is done for you. This little pinecone fish is simple enough for kids, but still looks really striking when it’s finished.
It’s also a lovely seasonal craft for whenever pinecones are easy to collect and kids are naturally curious about the world around them. Whether you’re crafting at home, in a classroom, or as part of a nature-themed week, this pinecone fish fits right in.
Materials and Supplies For Your Pinecone Fish Craft
To make your pinecone fish, you’ll need just a few basic supplies. A real pinecone is the star of the craft and gives the fish its scaly texture. You’ll also need a piece of cardboard for the fish shape, scissors, glue (a hot glue gun works best with pinecones, but adult supervision is important), and a small bundle of pine needles or grass for the fins and tail. A marker is handy for adding simple details like the eye.
How to Make a Pinecone Fish
Below you’ll find the step by step instructions to make your own pinecone fish. It’s a simple, hands-on craft that’s easy to follow and perfect for using natural materials you may already have at home, or incorporate going for a walk first to hunt for the pine cones and add to the fun.
How to make a pine cone fish craft
Turn a simple pinecone into a cute fish using cardboard and pine needles in this easy nature craft kids will love.
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Marker
- Pine cone
- Pine needles
- Hot glue gun
Instructions
- Start by gathering your pinecone and breaking off pieces, which will be used to form the scales.
- Draw a simple fish shape on cardboard and cut it out. This should include the head and tail shape, with space to add the pine cone scales in the middle.
- Glue the pinecone scales one by one onto the center of the cardboard fish. Press it all down firmly and allow the glue to set so it feels secure.
Continue until the whole body is covered 
- Add pine needles to create the fins and tail. Glue a small bundle at the back for the tail and shorter pieces along the top for the dorsal fin. You can also add a few underneath for extra detail. If pine needles aren’t easy to find where you live, you can swap them for thin grass, evergreen trimmings, or even paper strips, but pine needles definitely give it that classic nature-craft feel, and combine perfectly with the pine cones.
- Trim the pine needles carefully with scissors until the fins and tail look neat and balanced.
- Use a marker to draw a simple eye on the fish head, and adjust any pieces if needed. Let everything dry completely before moving or displaying your pinecone fish.
A Fun Pinecone Fish Fact
There actually is a real marine fish known as the pinecone fish, sometimes called the pineapple fish. These small marine species live near reef areas and are known for their unusual, armor-like scales. Some species, including the Japanese pinecone fish, are even famous for producing light, which makes them fascinating to learn about in an aquarium setting.
If kids are curious, this is a great chance to talk about how different fish species adapt to life in water, and how nature often inspires the crafts we make.
Fish Themed Nature Craft
This pinecone fish craft is a lovely way to combine creativity with a bit of nature exploration. Kids get to work with real materials, practice fine motor skills, and learn that everyday natural objects like a pinecone can be turned into something playful and imaginative. It’s simple, hands-on, and full of personality.
If you make this pinecone fish, we’d love to see it. Feel free to share your finished craft and pass this idea along to anyone who enjoys easy nature crafts for kids.
More Nature Crafts for Kids
If your kids enjoyed making this pinecone fish, there are so many more nature crafts to try. Using natural materials like pinecones, leaves, sticks, and stones is such a fun way for children to slow down, explore what’s around them, and create something unique. These kinds of crafts are easy to adapt for different seasons and always feel a little bit special because no two pieces of nature are ever the same.
- Flower Vases Nature Craft Activity
- Emotions Flower Face Craft
- Egg Carton Nature COLOR Hunt Activity for Kids
- Easy Cobweb Nature Craft
- Frozen Nature Ornaments
- Autumn Nature Puzzle
More Fish Crafts for Kids
Fish crafts are always popular with kids, especially when they can experiment with different textures, colors, and shapes. From simple paper fish to mixed-media projects inspired by marine life, fish crafts are a great way to spark conversations about life in the water while keeping little hands busy and creative.
- Easy Paper Plate Fish Craft
- Toilet Paper Roll Koi Fish Craft for Lunar New Year
- Fine Motor Fish Collage
- Watercolor Paper Bag Jellyfish Craft
- Easy Starfish Craft With Free Printable Template
If you enjoyed this pinecone fish craft, please consider sharing this blog post with friends, family, or on social media. It really helps others discover fun, nature-inspired crafts for kids.
