Looking for a fun and budget-friendly craft that kids will love? This DIY Panda Craft with a fluffy yarn pom pom belly is the perfect hands-on activity for home, classrooms, or playdates. Using simple supplies like yarn, scissors, and our free printable panda template, your little ones can create their own adorable panda with a soft, 3D belly. It’s great for developing fine motor skills—and the finished product is seriously cute! Whether you’re planning an animal-themed unit or just want something easy and engaging, this panda craft is sure to be a hit.

Who is this DIY Panda Craft for?

This DIY Panda Craft is perfect for preschoolers, elementary-aged kids, and even tweens who love animals or hands-on activities. It’s simple enough for little ones to do with a bit of help and engaging enough to keep older kids interested—especially with the fun of making their own fluffy pom pom! Whether you’re a parent looking for a rainy day activity, a teacher planning a zoo or animal unit, or a Sunday school leader needing a low-prep craft, this project is a great fit. It also works wonderfully for birthday parties, homeschool lessons, or just a creative afternoon at home.

How to Make DIY Panda Yarn Craft

This panda craft is not only adorable—it’s also super easy to make with just a few basic supplies. Kids will love coloring their panda, cutting it out, and then bringing it to life with a soft, handmade yarn pom pom for the belly. Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions to guide you through the whole process.

Materials

Instructions for Making Panda

  • Print the Panda Template
    Start by printing out your panda template on sturdy paper or cardstock for best results.

  • Color Your Panda
    Use crayons, markers, colored pencils, or even paint to decorate your panda. Be as creative as you like—make it traditional black and white or use your favorite colors to give it some personality!

  • Cut Out the Panda
    Carefully cut out your panda along the outline. Once it’s cut out, set it aside while you make the pom pom.

    • Make a Pom Pom Belly
      Grab your yarn—any color or thickness you prefer. You’re going to create a small pom pom to use as the panda’s fluffy belly.

    • Wrap the yarn around 3–4 fingers several times until you have a thick bundle. The more you wrap, the fluffier your pom pom will be.

    • Carefully slide the yarn bundle off your fingers.

    • Cut a small separate piece of yarn and tie it tightly around the middle of the bundle. Make sure it’s knotted securely.

    • Now cut through the loops on both sides of the bundle.

    • Fluff it up and trim the edges until your pom pom is the shape and size you like.

  • Attach the Pom Pom to the Panda

    • Take your cut-out panda and punch two small holes in its belly area, about ¼ inch apart.

    • Use the two yarn ends from your pom pom to thread through each hole from the front to the back.

    • Tie the yarn ends together on the back side of the panda to secure the pom pom in place.

  • Final Touches
    Trim your pom pom as much as you’d like to get your desired look—round and fluffy or short and neat. Now your panda has an adorable 3D belly!

Make this Sweet Panda Yarn Craft

This sweet little panda craft is such a fun way to mix coloring, cutting, and sensory play into one activity. Plus, it’s easy to prep and clean up—always a win! Whether your kids give their panda a rainbow belly or keep it classic with black and white, each one turns out unique. Be sure to save this idea to Pinterest so you’ll have it handy for your next rainy day or animal-themed activity. And don’t forget to grab your free printable template below to get started!