Halloween is right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a fun and creative craft for kids! Introducing our paper plate jack o’ lantern craft – a delightful activity that will have your little ones excited to create their very own unique jack o’ lantern.
Using our free printable template, kids can mix and match different mouths, eyes, and noses to design a one-of-a-kind pumpkin face.
This craft is perfect for children of all ages, encouraging creativity and providing endless fun as they build their personalized jack o’ lantern masterpieces.
Read on for instructions for this fun craft!
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-1-1-683x1024.jpg)
Jack o’ Lantern Paper Craft
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-2-1024x768.jpg)
Materials
- Jack o’ lantern craft printable (available for download below)
- Paper plate
- Orange paint
- Black and green paper
- Scissors
- Glue
Instructions
First, download and print out the jack o’ lantern craft printable, which you can find at the bottom of this page.
Start by painting your paper plate orange and letting it dry. While it dries, cut out the pieces from the template.
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-3-1024x768.jpg)
Trace the face pieces onto black or yellow paper, depending on whether you want your jack o’ lantern to glow or look dark, and cut them out. Trace the pumpkin stem onto green paper and cut it out as well.
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-4-1024x768.jpg)
Next, trace the pumpkin template onto the paper plate and cut it out.
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-5-1024x768.jpg)
Now it’s time to assemble your jack o’ lantern! First, glue the green stem onto the top of the pumpkin.
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-6-1024x768.jpg)
Then comes the fun part: deciding which face you want for your pumpkin! Choose from the different eyes, mouths, and noses to create the perfect expression. This is a fantastic group activity because you can mix and match the face pieces, and everyone can make a unique pumpkin.
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-7-1024x768.jpg)
Once you’ve chosen your face, glue the pieces onto the pumpkin.
![](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-8-1024x768.jpg)
Now your cute jack o’ lantern craft is complete!
We hope you and your kids have a blast creating these personalized Paper Plate Jack O’ Lanterns!
This craft is not only a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween, but it also encourages creativity and individuality.
Kids Books About Jack o’ Lanterns
While you’re making your craft, be sure to check out these fun kids books all about jack o’ lanterns!
Pumpkin Jack by Will Hubbell– Follow the journey of a jack-o’-lantern as it transforms from a festive Halloween decoration to a decaying pumpkin, and finally into a new pumpkin plant. This enchanting story illustrates the life cycle of a pumpkin, teaching young readers about nature and the seasons through engaging illustrations and a heartwarming narrative.
Pick a Pumpkin by Patricia Toht– Experience the joy of fall traditions through this beautifully illustrated story, which captures the excitement of picking the perfect pumpkin. From the pumpkin patch to carving and decorating, this charming book celebrates the festive spirit of Halloween and the simple pleasures of autumn.
Little Boo by Stephen Wunderli– A tiny pumpkin seed dreams of becoming a scary jack-o’-lantern. Through the changing seasons, the seed transforms and grows, teaching young readers about patience, growth, and the magic of nature. This heartwarming tale is perfect for autumn and Halloween.
![Jack o' lantern craft](https://raisecuriouskids.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jack-o-lantern-10-720x720.jpg)
Jack o' Lantern Paper Craft
Build your own paper jack o' lantern with this easy craft for kids!
Materials
- Jack o' lantern craft printable
- Paper plate
- Orange paint
- Black and green paper
- Scissors
- Glue
Instructions
- Download and print out the jack o' lantern craft printable.
- Paint your paper plate orange and let it dry.
- Cut out the pieces from the template.
- Trace the face pieces onto black or yellow paper, depending on whether you want your jack o' lantern to glow or look dark, and cut them out. Trace the pumpkin stem onto green paper and cut it out as well.
- Trace the pumpkin template onto the paper plate and cut it out.
- Glue the green stem onto the top of the pumpkin.
- Choose from the different eyes, mouths, and noses to create the perfect expression for your jack o' lantern. Glue the pieces onto the pumpkin.