Aeronautically inspired projects are the ticket to entertaining your aspiring aviator. We’ve got the schematics for everything from toilet paper roll airplanes to private runways, so gear up and get ready for high altitude fun. These 11 first class (air)crafts are ready for take off.
photo: Pink Stripey Socks
Toilet Paper Roll Airplanes
Pink Stripey Socks came up with this easy upcycle craft for her transportation-loving tyke using empty toilet paper rolls. You’ll need an adult to help with assembly, but crafters of all ages will enjoy decorating the aircrafts. Find a list of materials and the free template here.
photo: MomDot
Clothespin Planes
Don’t be so quick to toss broken toy cars into the recycling bin. Trisha, the resourceful mom behind MomDot, repurposed the wheels and axels into the landing gear for these colorful clothespin airplanes. Find out how here.
photo: Dirt & Boogers
Make a Runway
You won’t find long lines for takeoff on this private runway, created for the petite pilot over at Dirt & Boogers. Made using blue painters tape, this creative project can be easily peeled away and recreated anywhere in the house; or, make a reusable version like the one here and store after landing.
photo: Fireflies & Mudpies
Giant Paper Airplane
We love this jumbo-sized paper airplane the crafty mom behind Fireflies & Mudpies made for only $1! Have the kids decorate the wings before heading outside for an afternoon of flight lessons. See these fierce flyers in action, and learn to make your own here.
photo: The TomKat Studio
Straw and Paper Airplanes
Don’t let the unusual design of these airplanes deceive you…they can really soar! Kim at The TomKat Studio suggests building your fleet in an assortment of vibrant hues and hosting a flying competition. DIY Network has the blueprints.
photo: Wills Casa
Wearable Plane
Put your aspiring pilot behind the wheel of her very own aircraft. A project for the seasoned DIYer, this wearable plane was made by Wills Casa as part of a Halloween costume, but would be perfect for pretend play year round. Estimated cost of this adorable prop…only $20. And the photos are priceless! Find the materials and how-to here.
photo: Marie-Laure Pham via Hello Wonderful
Construction Paper 3D Plane
An architect with a love of crafting, the mom behind La Maison de Loulou gave the traditional paper airplane a serious upgrade. Choose your favorite colors of construction paper and fly over to Hello Wonderful to find the free template and assembly instructions.
photo: The Homes I Have Made
DIY Bubble Wand Airplane
By adding propellers, wings and a tail, The Homes I Have Made transformed a Dollar Store bubble wand into an awesome party favor. Pop over to the blog for the tutorial.
photo: Sewing Mama RaeAnna
Candy Airplanes
The hardest part of making this sweet aircraft is resisting eating the supplies. Sewing Mama RaeAnna put together these delicious takeaways for her son’s birthday, but this easy-to-make craft would be a great afternoon project…and snack. Learn how to make your own here.
photo: Sunny with a Chance of Sprinkles
Popcorn Cup Airplanes
The mom over at Sunny with a Chance of Sprinkles knows how to make movie night extra special. Adding a propeller and wings to classic red solo cups created special themed popcorn holders for an evening showing of Planes. Find the how-to and other movie-themed crafts here.
photo: Mommo Design
Pizza Box Airport
If you weren’t planning a pizza night, you will after seeing this awesome idea from Mommo Design. Instead of discarding the box, this crafty mom designed an airport for her little pilot’s assorted aircrafts. Complete with lit runway and control tower, find out how to make this recycled craft here.
Which airplane craft are you planning to make with your little pilot? Share with us in the comments.
— Lauren Hill
