There’s just something so fun and nostalgic about tiny paper crafts that actually move—and this paper record player might be one of my favorite ones yet. Kids get to color, build, and spin their own little record player using simple supplies you probably already have at home. It’s creative, hands-on, and honestly just really cute when it’s finished. Whether you’re making it for a music unit, a rainy day activity, or just because your kids love crafts, this one is such a fun project to put together.

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How to Make a Paper Record Player

This printable record player craft is easy to assemble and extra fun because the record actually spins!

Materials

Instructions

  • Choose the size of record player you’d like to use. You can also personalize your record using the blank labels provided.
  • Color and decorate your record, then carefully cut it out.

  • Next, color and cut out the record player.

  • Cut out the tonearm and attach it to the top right circle of the record player using a paper brad. Then use another paper brad to secure the record to the center circle so it can spin.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Record Player

  • Print on cardstock if possible. It makes the record player sturdier and helps the spinning record work better.
  • Let kids design their own “album.” They can write song titles, or make funny band names on the blank record labels.
  • Markers make the colors really pop, but crayons give it a fun vintage look that honestly matches the craft perfectly.
  • If the record feels too loose while spinning, flatten the paper brad a little tighter in the back until it moves smoothly.
  • Younger kids may need help cutting around the smaller pieces like the tonearm. Pre-cutting those pieces can make the activity less frustrating.
  • Turn it into a music-themed day! Play music while kids craft or let them “perform” with their finished record players afterward.
  • Laminating the pieces before assembling can help the craft last longer if kids want to play with it more than once.
  • Make multiple records so kids can swap them out like a real record player.

Where to Download the Template

You can grab the printable record player template in my shop! The download includes different size options along with blank record labels so kids can personalize their own records and designs.

You can also check out my Christian version “Play God’s Word”.

I also have other interactive printable crafts and activity templates if your kids love coloring, cutting, and creating things they can actually play with afterward. It’s an easy, low-prep activity that works great at home, in classrooms, or for parties.

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Ideas of Where to Do This Record Craft

  • Rainy day at home – This is the perfect boredom buster when kids need something creative to do indoors.
  • Music lessons or homeschool units – Such a fun addition to learning about music, instruments, or even different decades of music history.
  • Birthday parties – Set up a craft table where kids can decorate their own record players and take them home.
  • Classroom activity – Great for art time, indoor recess, or music-themed classroom days.
  • Grandparents’ house – This has major nostalgic vibes, and grandparents usually think it’s adorable.
  • Summer activity basket – Print a few ahead of time and keep them ready for quiet afternoon activities.
  • Library or community events – Perfect for music-themed story times or craft stations.
  • Family night activity – Pair it with a family dance party or favorite music playlist for extra fun.

Record Player Craft is fun and Interactive

This paper record player craft is one of those activities that’s simple to make but ends up being surprisingly fun and memorable. Kids love that the record actually spins, and the chance to personalize their own little “albums” makes it even better. It’s creative, interactive, and easy to pull together without a ton of supplies or prep. If you’re looking for a hands-on printable craft that kids will genuinely enjoy, this one is definitely worth trying.