This turkey craft is low mess, using simple supplies, and it’s a great way for kids to practice cutting and tracing. We think this autumn art project is pretty adorable, and it’s a goofy way to add to festive celebrations at the Thanksgiving dinner table.
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Download a free turkey hat template:
Click on the link below to download our free, printable turkey hat template! The PDF file will open in a new window. Then simply print the template on 8.5 x 11 (letter size) printer paper.
»> Turkey Hat Template «<
Do I have to use the turkey hat template?
Our printable turkey hat template makes this turkey craft really easy to make, but you definitely don’t have to use the template if you don’t want! You’ll need to cut your own turkey body, beak, and wattle. For the turkey body cut a circular shape that curves into an oval head. Our turkey is about 6 inches tall and 4-1/2 inches at the widest part. Then cut a triangle for the beak and a curved narrow oval for the wattle.
What type of paper is needed for making these turkey hats?
You need a thicker cardstock for the headband base of the turkey hat – something that keeps its shape and won’t rip easily. We used a textured scrapbook paper for the turkey’s body, but you can also use regular scrapbook paper, cardstock, or paper. For the feathers we used construction paper, but coloured printer paper also works well. You need to use a paper thin enough to accordion fold easily.
If I don’t have pipe cleaners what can I use for the turkey hat legs?
We love the textured look of the pipe cleaner legs, and how easy it is to pose them the way you want. But if you don’t have brown pipe cleaners you can also cut legs from yellow or orange cardstock or paper. Make the legs about 5-1/2 inches long and attach them at enough of an angle that they’ll drape on each side of your face, rather than falling into your eyes.
Do I need a glue gun to make the turkey hat? What other glue will work?
We used a combination of glue tape and a glue gun to put this turkey hat together. We have a low temperature glue gun, which is a great option for kids. But if you don’t feel comfortable using a glue gun, there are a few other options. Use a stapler to connect the headband and to attach the fanned feathers. Make sure the smooth part of the staple faces the inside of the hat. You can also use white glue, tacky glue, or even tape to combine parts of the turkey hat. Figure out what works best for you!
This turkey hat is a great way to keep the kids busy at Thanksgiving, whether in the classroom or at home. Explore paper folding and fall colours to create this wearable harvest craft!
Here’s even more Thanksgiving craft ideas:
Popsicle Stick Scarecrow
Hershey’s Kisses Turkey Treats
Pumpkin Fizzy Art
Our book Low-Mess Crafts for Kids is loaded with 72 fun and simple craft ideas for kids! The projects are fun, easy and most importantly low-mess, so the clean up is simple!
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