If your children are fascinated by the ocean or love mermaids, these mermaid crafts will keep them entertained and inspired. Each project is distinct and creative, offering a fun way to spend time together while making memorable keepsakes.
Most of these crafts can be made with supplies you already have at home or with items from a local craft store. We keep a well-stocked craft closet for projects like these — basic paints, glue, scissors, paper, and a handful of embellishments go a long way.
Clothespin Mermaid Craft
Clothespins are inexpensive and versatile. For this craft, paint the bottom half of a clothespin in bright hues, then use craft paper to create the head, hair, and tail. These tiny mermaids are cute, quick to make, and perfect for small hands.
Photo source and inspiration from Darcy and Brian
Mermaid Slime
Mermaid slime is easy to make with glitter glue, chunky glitter, water, and a little baking soda. The shimmering finish resembles a mermaid’s tail and makes for a tactile, sensory activity — great for playtime or a themed birthday party.
Photo source and inspiration from The Best Ideas For Kids
Mermaid Treasure Chests
Turn paper egg cartons into tiny treasure chests for an eco-friendly craft. Paint and decorate each compartment, and let kids fill them with small trinkets and “buried” treasures. It’s an easy upcycle project with big imagination payoff.
Photo source and inspiration from The Mama Notes
Mermaid Coloring Pages
Coloring pages are a timeless activity. These mermaid designs work well with markers, watercolors, and can be embellished with tiny sequins to create a sparkly tail. They’re simple, calming, and suitable for a wide age range.
Photo source and inspiration from The Best Ideas For Kids
Pipe Cleaner Mermaid Dolls
Create whimsical mermaid dolls using pipe cleaners for the body, yarn for hair, beads for facial details, and a faux flower or felt for the tail. These lightweight dolls are perfect for imaginative play and easy for kids to customize.
Photo source and inspiration from Hello Wonderful
Glitter Vinyl Tube Bracelets
These glitter-filled vinyl tube bracelets let kids carry the sparkle of the sea with them. Fill clear PVC tubing with assorted glitters in pinks, purples, blues, greens, or silver, then seal the ends for wearable shimmer.
Photo source and inspiration from A Pumpkin & A Princess
DIY Painted Mermaid Seashell Necklaces
Use collected or store-bought seashells and decorate them with watercolor paints and dyed rock salt for texture. Add a ribbon or cord to make a personalized mermaid necklace — a lovely keepsake or party craft.
Photo source and inspiration from Barley and Birch
Mermaid Decoration Craft
Cardstock mermaid dolls can be printed, cut, and assembled for decorations or party activities. They’re a fun way to decorate a child’s room or to give guests a hands-on craft during a mermaid-themed gathering.
Photo source and inspiration from Meri Meri
Mermaid Fin Hair Clip Craft
Make a sparkly hair clip by cutting blue craft foam into a mermaid fin shape and gluing sequins or glitter to resemble scales. Attach the fin to a clip for a quick costume accessory or everyday sparkle.
Photo source and inspiration from Finding Zest
Mermaid Tail Paper Plate Craft
Paper plates, paint, and glitter glue are all you need for a mermaid tail craft. Paint plates in bright or soft colors, trim them into tail shapes, and add glittered edges for a playful finish.
Photo source and inspiration from Mama.Jots (Instagram)
No-Sew Felt Mermaid Headband
Create a no-sew headband by cutting felt into seashell and starfish shapes, then embellishing with seed beads and glue. It’s a simple project that makes a striking accessory for dress-up or Halloween.
Photo source and inspiration from Lia Griffith
DIY Mermaid Soap
Making mermaid-shaped soap is a fun, customizable craft that works well as a gift or party favor. Choose favorite colors and scents to create pretty soap in mermaid tail molds.
Photo source inspiration from The Moments At Home
Mermaid Tote Bags
For party activities, let kids decorate straw tote bags with sparkly patches, sequins, and fabric paint. They make great favors and are practical for summer beach days.
Photo source and inspiration from Studio DIY
DIY Mermaid Scales Painted Rocks
Collect smooth rocks from nature and paint them with blues, greens, silvers, and golds to create mermaid-scale patterns. These painted rocks are great for nature-lovers and make lovely garden accents or gifts.
Photo source and inspiration from Projects with Kids
More Craft Ideas
- Under the Sea Ocean-Themed Crafts + Activities
- 22 Disney Crafts for Kids
- 24 Bug Crafts & Activities for Kids
- Under The Sea: Pink Shell Madeleines
Mermaids are magical and spark creativity. These craft ideas are ideal for weekend projects, rainy-day activities, or to enjoy while watching a mermaid movie together. Gather supplies, pick a project, and let your kids’ imaginations swim free.