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How to Make a Paper Plate Dragon

Learn how to make a paper plate dragon with simple supplies and paint! So cute and fun for kids – a great summer craft idea.

paper plate dragon

Hello, crafters and dragon enthusiasts! Are you ready to unleash your inner fire-breathing, craft-making beast?

Because we’re about to dive into the mystical world of paper plate dragons – a place where creativity soars on dragon wings, and the only limit is your imagination (and maybe your supply of paper plates).

We’re talking about a craft so simple yet so magical, it’s like discovering a hidden dragon’s lair in your kitchen cupboard. The plates you use for BBQs and birthday cake are about to get a monstrous makeover.

All you need are some basic crafting supplies – paper plates, of course, some paint, a dash of Mod Podge, and a sprinkle of creativity. And perhaps some sparkle, because let’s face it, even dragons enjoy a bit of bling.

dragons made from paper plates

And the best part? This dragon paper plate craft is perfect for crafters of all ages and skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned knight of the crafting table or a young squire just beginning your journey, these dragons are sure to bring a smile to your face and a burst of pride to your heart.

So, gather your supplies, summon your courage, and prepare to embark on a crafting quest that will take you through enchanted forests and over rainbow skies.

By the end of this adventure, you’ll not only have a fierce paper plate dragon by your side but also a tale of creativity and fun to share for years to come.

dragon paper plate craft

Ready to breathe some crafty fire into those paper plates? Let’s spread our wings and dive into a world where dragons are not just mythical beasts, but a crafter’s best friend! Here’s what you’re going to need.

Gather These Supplies

  • Paper plates – about 3 – 5 per dragon
  • Acrylic paint – colors of your choice
  • Mod Podge Sparkle (optional)
  • Googly eyes
  • Scissors
  • Paper brads
  • Craft glue
  • Hole punch
  • Sharpie or felt tip black pen
  • Pencil
  • Paintbrushes
  • Spouncers

Tips and Tricks for This Project

If you use thin plates (like those found at Dollar Tree), you might want to glue two together. I found I needed a little more stability for my dragons.

Keep in mind that you want the edge of the plate to be the edge of the wing. It looks so fun!

I painted the bodies one color and the chests another color. I also used spouncers to create a speckled look since dragons have scaly skin.

Get the printable how to card for this kids’ craft below:

paper plate dragon
Save Print
5 from 1 vote

Paper Plate Dragon

This dragon paper plate craft is fun for kids and adults alike! It's easy to make with simple supplies.
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 1 dragon
Cost: $1

Materials

Instructions

  • Draw a wing on the back of a paper plate using a pencil. Cut out with the scissors.
    draw a wing on the back of a paper plate and cut it out
  • Use the first wing to trace a second wing on the inside of the second paper plate. Cut out with the scissors.
    draw the second wing on the inside of the paper plate with a pencil and cut out
  • If desired, you can trim the edges of the plates to be scalloped and look more like wings. Glue them together and let dry.
    Trimming the plates to look like dragon wings
  • Cut the center of the body out using another paper plate. You'll want two oval shaped pieces of relatively the same size. Glue them together, sandwiching the wings in between.
    draw the body pieces on the inside of the thicker plate and cut out with scissors
  • Draw the head and tail pieces on a paper plate. Cut out, then trace them to cut out one more of each shape.
    draw the tail and head on a plate cut out two of each
  • Glue both head pieces together, and both tail pieces together. Let dry.
    glue the tail pieces together and the head pieces together
  • Paint all dragon pieces with the color(s) of your choice. Let dry. Glue googly eyes onto either side of the head, and add any accent lines with a Sharpie or felt tip pen. Let dry.
    Gluing the tail onto the back of the dragon
  • Use the hole punch to add a hole to the front of the body and the bottom of the head. Add a paper brad to attach.
    Punching a hole in the neck of the dragon head
  • Use the hole punch to add a hole to the back of the body and the base of the tail. Add a paper brad to attach.
    Attaching the tale to the body of the dragon with brads
  • If desired, add Mod Podge Sparkle or glitter paint to the ends of the tail and the top of the head. Let dry before using.
    paper plate dragon

Aren’t our dragons cute??

What do you think? Let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to visit these other posts:

5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)
Project Rating




linda smith

Monday 4th of March 2019

this is AMAZING and so cute, Amy!!!

Rachel Willis

Wednesday 27th of February 2019

My niece loves this movie series! Such a fun craft, too!