There’s something extra special about a Halloween craft that turns a tiny handprint into a keepsake. This Paper Plate Moon Craft with Handprint Cat is one of those magical little projects.
You get a glittery yellow crescent moon, a sweet black cat made from your child’s own hand, and a whole lot of giggles along the way. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for kids of all ages.
Whether you’re a parent looking for a rainy afternoon activity, a teacher planning a classroom party, or a caregiver hunting for something festive, this one checks every box. Grab your supplies and let’s make some spooky-cute magic together!
Craft Supplies:
Before you start, gather everything on this list. Having it all ready makes crafting with little ones so much smoother.
- 1 large white paper plate
- Yellow paint (and a paintbrush)
- Glitter (gold, orange, and pink look wonderful)
- Black cardstock paper
- 2 small googly eyes
- Craft glue
- Scissors
That’s it! Most of these are things you probably already have tucked away in a craft drawer.
Directions:
Step 1: Cut the Paper Plate into a Crescent Moon
Take your white paper plate and cut a curved, banana-like shape out of one side. What you’re left with is a lovely crescent moon. Don’t worry about making it perfect. A slightly wobbly moon has plenty of charm, and kids won’t mind one bit.
Step 2: Paint the Moon Yellow
Give your crescent moon a bright coat of yellow paint. Cover the whole surface, including the bumpy outer rim of the plate. This is a favorite step for little hands, so let them go wild. Set it aside to dry for a few minutes.
Step 3: Add the Glitter
While the paint is still wet, sprinkle glitter over the yellow moon. The wet paint acts like glue and holds the sparkle in place. Gold, orange, and pink glitter give your moon that dreamy, twinkly night-sky look. Gently shake off any extra, then let the moon dry completely.
Step 4: Trace and Cut the Handprint
Lay your child’s hand flat on the black cardstock, fingers spread apart. Trace around it with a pencil, then carefully cut out the shape. This handprint becomes the body of your cat. The fingers make the legs and tail, and the palm forms the round belly. Save this special little hand shape, because it’s the heart of the whole craft!
Step 5: Make the Cat’s Head and Ears
Cut a rounded shape from the black cardstock for the cat’s head. Add two small triangles on top for the pointed ears. Glue the head to the wrist end of the handprint, so your cat looks like it’s sitting up proudly.
Step 6: Add the Face Details
Now for the fun part! Glue on two googly eyes so your cat can gaze back at you. Add the little pink heart in the center of the face for a sweet button nose. Then use your white pen to draw three whiskers on each side. These tiny touches bring your cat to life.
Step 7: Glue the Cat onto the Moon
Once everything is dry, add a bit of craft glue to the back of your cat and press it right onto the glittery moon. Now your handprint kitty has a cozy perch to watch over Halloween night. Ta-da! Your craft is complete.
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This craft is proof that the simplest projects often turn into the sweetest memories. Every handprint cat is a little different, just like the child who made it, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
We’d love to see your glittery moons and handprint kitties! Snap a photo, tag us, and share your creation. Happy crafting, friends, and Happy Halloween from Glued To My Crafts!
