How To Make A Mermaid Tail Craft For Kids

May 19, 2026

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a mermaid tail craft made out of pink, purple, and blue construction paper

Mermaids are my kids’ favorite! They always want everything that is mermaid-themed. So, we decided to make this adorable mermaid tail craft out of construction paper! It’s so easy to make and is very budget-friendly because we already had the construction paper! It’s the perfect craft if you’re looking for mermaid crafts, ocean crafts, or under the sea crafts.

This mermaid tail craft pairs great with these other ocean-themed crafts for kids. They were featured on Twinkl’s (New Zealand) blog, so you know they’re a hit with kids!

pink, blue, and purple construction paper, scissors, and a glue stick

What You’ll Need For This Mermaid Tail Craft

Colored construction paper or cardstock (I used pink, blue, and purple)
Scissors
Glue stick

How To Make This Mermaid Craft

1. Cut Out the Scales
Cut several half circles from colored paper. Use different colors like pink, purple, and blue.

half circle cut outs of pink, blue, and purple construction paper

2. Layer the Scales
Start at the top and glue five half circles in a row. Add four half circles on the next row, then three on the next, and two on the last row. Slightly overlap each piece to create a layered fish scale look.

3. Make the Fin
Draw and cut out a large fin shape from another piece of paper.

a mermaid tail cut out of purple construction paper

4. Attach the Fin
Glue the fin to the back bottom of the tail so it fans out underneath the scales.

Colorful paper shapes (pink and purple half circles) arranged on white background, with a glue stick nearby

Tips For This Mermaid Tail Craft

This ocean craft is fairly easy to make, but here are some important tips to help you, along with some variations for this under the sea craft!

Trace a small lid or cup to make evenly sized half circles.
Use cardstock if you want a sturdier mermaid tail.
Add glitter, sequins, or stickers for extra sparkle.
Let the glue dry between rows if the paper starts sliding around.

Ocean-Themed Activities for Kids

Ocean-Themed Crafts For Kids– These ocean-themed crafts are so fun and easy to make! Kids can choose crafts from whales, jellyfish, and sharks or they can make all of them!

Ocean-Themed Art Projects For Kids– On this list you’ll find fun and creative ways to explore the wonders of the sea through painting. From paints to crayons to handprints, kids will create beautiful ocean-themed art.

Summer Activities For Kids

Summer Art Projects For Kids– Whether you’re looking for colorful outdoor crafts or simple indoor activities to beat the heat, these summer art projects will bring fun, creativity, and a splash of sunshine to your child’s day.

Budget-Friendly Summer Crafts– Whether you’re looking for simple projects using recycled materials or affordable supplies, these budget-friendly summer crafts will provide hours of creative fun without stretching your wallet.

Low-Mess Summer Crafts– These low mess summer crafts are fun, simple, and easy to clean up, making them perfect for keeping little hands busy without turning your house upside down.