How to Make a Woven Paper Fish
Make a woven paper fish with cardstock strips. Includes weaving steps and shaping tips.
What You'll Need
- Colored cardstock paper (2 contrasting colors)
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Craft scissors
- Ruler (optional)
This project takes 30–60 minutes. Cut strips, weave a base, shape the tail, and finish.
Cut Strips
Cut 8–10 strips, each 1/2 inch wide and 10–12 inches long. Use two colors for contrast.
Set Up Warp Strips
Lay 4–5 strips vertically, side by side with small gaps. These are the warp.
Weave First Row
Take a horizontal strip and weave over, under, over, under across the warp. Push it snug to the top.
Weave Second Row
Weave the next horizontal strip starting with the opposite pattern: under, over, under, over. Continue alternating rows until the body is about 4–5 inches long.
Shape the Tail
Gather the loose ends of the warp strips at one end. Fan them out and trim to a V-shape or triangle. Glue or tape the ends together to secure.
Finish the Head
At the opposite end, fold the warp strips inward to form a rounded head. Glue or tape them down. Trim any excess.
Tip
Use contrasting colors for the warp and weft to make the weave pattern visible.
Tip
Keep vertical strips parallel and evenly spaced for a uniform body.
Warning
Scissors are sharp. Supervise children.
