DIY Paper Chef Hat

Supplies (per child):

• 1 x A3 or A4 sheet of white paper (for the top part of the hat – tissue or printer paper works well)

• 1 x strip of cardstock or construction paper (about 60cm long by 10cm high) – this is the hat band

• Glue stick or tape

• Stapler (adult use recommended)

• Scissors

• Markers, stickers, washi tape, glitter glue, etc. for decorating

Steps:

1. Prepare the Hat Band

• Cut a strip of cardstock approx. 10cm high and long enough to wrap around the child’s head.

• If one strip isn’t long enough, attach two shorter strips together with glue or tape.

2. Create the Puffy Top

• Take your sheet of white paper (A3 works best) and gently scrunch or fold it accordion-style from top to bottom.

• Spread out the bottom edge slightly to make it easier to attach to the band.

3. Attach the Top to the Band

• Use glue or tape to stick the scrunched paper along the inside top edge of the band strip.

• Make sure it covers the entire length. The paper should stick out above the band, giving it that tall “chef hat” look.

4. Fit the Hat to the Child

• Wrap the finished band around the child’s head to size it.

• Staple or tape the ends together so it fits snugly (not too tight).

5. Decorate!

• Let kids decorate their chef hats with:

  • Their name (e.g. "Chef Lily")

  • Stars, stickers, bunting, or glitter

  • Fun patterns or baking doodles (e.g. cupcakes, whisks, rolling pins)

Tips:

• Pre-cut bands and prepare paper ahead of time for younger kids.

• Have a “hat station” with decorating materials in trays or containers.

• Pair this craft with a baking activity or cupcake challenge!