Make Your Own Jellyfish Lanterns: A Splashy Craft for Kids

Looking for a craft that’s equal parts magical, floaty, and slightly wobbly? Let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite DIY projects to do with kids: jellyfish lanterns! They’re bright, they're bouncy, and they look like they swam straight out of a coral reef and into your living room.

These jellyfish make amazing decorations for parties, classrooms, or bedrooms—and they just happen to be the perfect fit for my underwater scavenger hunt, where we dive into a world of sea creatures, clues, and sparkly seaweed (don’t worry, no one actually gets wet unless someone spills the glue).

So grab your scissors and let’s get crafting!

Why Jellyfish Lanterns?

Because they’re ridiculously cute, for starters. But also, jellyfish lanterns are a great way for kids to explore textures, colors, and movement. Watching them “float” and sway with the breeze adds a magical, ocean-y vibe to any space. They’re super customizable, easy to make, and require only a few simple materials.

Also: if your home needs more googly eyes in unexpected places (whose doesn’t?), this is your moment.

Materials You’ll Need:

One paper lantern (white or light-colored is best, but you do you)
Crepe paper, ribbons, or streamers in ocean-inspired colors
Glue or tape
Scissors
Googly eyes (mandatory. Jellyfish without eyes are just floating blobs. Let’s give them personality.)
Optional: glitter, sequins, tissue paper, or any sparkly extras

How to Make a Jellyfish Lantern (Without Getting Stung)

1. Open up your paper lantern.
This is the body of your jellyfish. You can leave it plain or decorate it with tissue paper to give it more ocean shimmer. A little blue or purple watercolor paint can also add a dreamy effect.

2. Cut the tentacles.
This is where it gets fun. Use long strips of crepe paper, ribbon, or curling gift wrap. The more textures, the better! You want it to look flowy and wild—just like a real jellyfish doing its thing under the sea.

3. Attach the tentacles.
Glue or tape them to the inside rim of the lantern so they hang down like, well, jellyfish bits. Pro tip: make them uneven for that authentic "I’m silently floating through the ocean like I own the place" look.

4. Add eyes.
Stick on those googly eyes to bring your jellyfish to life. Big ones, tiny ones, one high and one low—let the kids get creative. If your jellyfish looks slightly surprised, even better.

5. Add glitter (if you dare).
Only if you're mentally prepared for a light dusting of sparkle on your cat’s forehead tomorrow.

6. Hang it up!
Use string or ribbon to hang your jellyfish from the ceiling, a hook, a curtain rod—anywhere it can dangle freely and show off its floaty magic.

Perfect for Underwater-Themed Adventures

Now, if you're planning an ocean-themed party, classroom activity, or rainy afternoon craft session, these jellyfish lanterns are more than just décor—they're immersive atmosphere-makers.

They pair perfectly with our Underwater Scavenger Hunt, where kids search for lost sea treasure, decode clues, and race to find hidden ocean creatures (spoiler: there might be a seahorse with attitude). Imagine your scavenger zone decked out with glowing jellyfish hanging from the ceiling—it’s like diving into your own DIY aquarium.

Bonus: the jellyfish also make great hiding spots for small clues or treasure tokens!

Tips for Even More Fun

Glow it up: Put a small LED tea light inside the lantern (only if it's safe) for glowing, magical jellyfish.
Name your jellyfish: Give each one a name and a backstory. "Bubbles the Bashful" and "Captain Wiggles" are currently trending in our household.
Mini versions: Use smaller lanterns or even paper bowls for mini jellyfish friends.
No lantern? No problem! Paper cups or plastic bowls turned upside down work in a pinch.

Final Thoughts

Jellyfish lanterns are the kind of craft that keeps kids busy, sparks joy, and makes your space look like it’s about to host a mermaid convention. Whether you're preparing for a scavenger hunt under the sea, hosting a birthday party, or just trying to survive a weekend indoors, these floating jellyfriends are always a win.

So let the kids go wild with color, give the jellyfish all the googly eyes they want, and enjoy your very own underwater world—no snorkel required.

Want to try the Underwater Scavenger Hunt that pairs perfectly with these lanterns? Message me—your adventure awaits!