DIY Love Bugs

Supplies

• Large pom-poms (various colours)

• Small foam or card circles/ovals (for feet)(pre-cut works best)

• Pipe cleaners (cut in half for antennae)

• Googly eyes

• Glue (PVA or tacky glue)

• Scissors

• Optional:

  • Foam hearts or stickers

  • Marker pens (for names)

Steps

1. Prepare the feet

   • Give each child two small foam or card shapes for feet.

   • These can be circles or ovals.

   • Place them side by side on the table with a small gap in the middle.

2. Attach the pom-pom body

   • Add glue to the top of the feet where they touch.

   • Press the pom-pom on top so it sits just over the join of the feet.

   • Hold gently for a few seconds to help it stick.

3. Add the eyes

   • Glue two googly eyes onto the front of the pom-pom.

   • Position slightly high to give the bug personality.

4. Make the antennae

   • Take one pipe cleaner (or two halves).

   • Bend each end into a curl.

   • Push gently into the top of the pom-pom or glue at the back/top.

5. Decorate (optional)

   • Add a small foam heart or sticker to the pom-pom body.

   • Draw a tiny smile if desired.

6. Dry time

   • Place love bugs aside to dry fully before moving or displaying.

Other Information

• Age suitability: 5–13 years(Younger children may need help with glue and antenna placement)

• Time required: 10–20 minutes

• Learning focus:Fine motor skills, creativity, following steps

• Adaptations:

  • Pre-glue antennae into pom-poms for younger children

  • Skip antennae for a quicker version

• Display ideas:

  • Line them up on a shelf or windowsill

  • Create a “Love Bug Parade” display

  • Let children take them home