5 Easy Steps to Create Adorable Paper Squishies * bigfinish.com

Step into the enchanting world of crafting with the phenomenon that has captured the hearts of creatives worldwide: paper squishies. These adorable and tactile creations are a testament to the boundless possibilities of papercraft. Embark on a delightful journey as we guide you through the art of transforming ordinary paper into extraordinary squishies, each infused with your unique imagination.

Unlike their store-bought counterparts, homemade paper squishies offer a captivating combination of creativity and personalization. They serve as a blank canvas for your artistic expression, allowing you to design and customize squishies that reflect your individuality. With an abundance of paper types and embellishments at your disposal, the possibilities are endless. Let your imagination soar and create squishies that embody your favorite characters, whimsical creatures, or abstract designs.

The process of crafting paper squishies is not only rewarding but also incredibly accessible. Utilizing simple materials found in most households, you can embark on this adventure without breaking the bank. With a few sheets of paper, glue, scissors, and a dash of patience, you can create an army of adorable squishies that will bring joy to your world and the world of those around you. So, gather your supplies and prepare to immerse yourself in the delightful realm of paper squishiness.

Assembling Your Materials

To embark on this delightful paper squishy-making adventure, you’ll need to gather a few essential materials:

Paper

As the primary ingredient for your squishy masterpiece, the type of paper you choose will significantly impact the final outcome. Opt for a sturdy paper like cardstock or construction paper. Thicker paper provides more durability and a satisfying squishy feeling.

Glue

The glue you use is crucial for holding your squishy together. Elmer’s Glue or other water-based adhesives are ideal for this purpose. Avoid using super glue or hot glue as they may damage the paper or make it difficult to work with.

Scissors

Sharp scissors are a must-have for precisely cutting out the paper shapes that will form your squishy. Ensure they are sharp enough to cut through the paper cleanly without tearing or fraying the edges.

Pen or Pencil

A simple pen or pencil is used to draw the shapes you want to cut out of the paper. A fine-tip pen or a pencil with a sharp point allows for more precise and intricate designs.

Other Optional Materials

Depending on your desired squishy design, you may want to incorporate additional materials such as markers, crayons, or paint to enhance the appearance or add details. Consider using glitter glue or sequins for a touch of sparkly flair.

Additional Tips:

* Use a damp cloth or sponge to slightly moisten the paper before cutting. This makes the paper more pliable and easier to cut without tearing.
* Cut out extra pieces for reinforcement if you want a more durable squishy.
* Allow ample time for the glue to dry completely before playing with your squishy.

Creating the Base Shape

The base shape of your squishy is the foundation upon which you will build your squishy’s features. Here are some tips for creating a sturdy and well-proportioned base shape:

Start with a simple shape: For beginners, starting with a basic shape like a circle, square, or triangle is recommended. This will provide a solid base for your design.
Use firm paper: Choose paper that is thick and durable to prevent your squishy from tearing or crumbling. Cardstock or construction paper are excellent options.
Cut out the shape carefully: Use sharp scissors to cut out your base shape cleanly and precisely. The cleaner the cut, the better your squishy will turn out.
Test the shape: Once you have cut out the base shape, test it by rolling it up and squeezing it. If it holds its shape well, you are ready to move on to the next step.

Tips for Shaping Complex Base Shapes

If you desire a more intricate base shape, consider the following tips:

Use stencils or templates: Draw or print out a stencil or template of your desired shape. Trace the shape onto the paper and cut it out.
Cut from multiple pieces: For shapes with curves or multiple sections, cut out each section separately and glue them together to form the base shape.
Use a ruler or protractor: For precise angles or measurements, use a ruler or protractor to guide your cuts.

Tip	Description
Use double-sided tape	Secure layers of paper together with double-sided tape to prevent the squishy from separating.
Reinforce with cardboard	Add a thin layer of cardboard to the center of the squishy to increase its durability.
Add a string or charm	Attach a string or charm to the squishy for extra personalization or decoration.

Cutting and Folding the Paper

To make your paper squishy, you will need to cut and fold it in a specific way. The steps are as follows:

Cut a rectangle of paper. The size of the rectangle will determine the size of your squishy. For a small squishy, cut a rectangle that is about 3 inches wide and 5 inches long. For a larger squishy, cut a rectangle that is about 6 inches wide and 10 inches long.
Fold the rectangle in half lengthwise. Align the edges of the rectangle and crease it down the center. This will create a long, narrow strip of paper.
Fold the strip of paper in half again, this time widthwise. Align the edges of the strip and crease it down the center. This will create a small, square piece of paper.

You can now start folding the square of paper to create your squishy. The following steps will show you how to fold a basic cube squishy. You can also experiment with other folds to create different shapes of squishies.

Folding Instructions for a Cube Squishy

Fold the square of paper in half diagonally. Align the corners of the square and crease it down the center. This will create a triangle.
Open up the triangle. The triangle should now have two creases running down the center.
Fold the bottom two corners of the triangle up to the top corner. This will create a square.
Fold the left and right sides of the square towards the centre. The edges of the square should meet in the middle.
Fold the top and bottom of the square upwards to meet the sides. The edges of the square should meet in the center.
Fold the square in half again, this time widthwise. Align the edges of the square and crease it down the center.
Fold the square in half again, this time lengthwise. Align the edges of the square and crease it down the centre.
You should now have a small cube-shaped squishy. You can decorate your squishy with markers, paint, or other craft supplies.

Shaping the Handheld

Now that you have your squish paper, it’s time to shape it into your desired handheld. The easiest way to do this is to fold the paper in half and then cut out a simple shape, such as a heart, a circle, or a square. You can also use a template to create a more complex shape.

If you’re making a two-sided squishy, you’ll need to cut out two identical shapes. Once you have your shapes cut out, you can glue them together around the edges. Be sure to leave a small opening so that you can fill the squishy with stuffing.

Adding Details

Once your squishy is filled, you can add details to make it more lifelike. For example, you could add eyes, a nose, and a mouth. You could also add hair or clothing. Get creative and have fun with it! You can even add a keychain or string to your squishy so that you can take it with you wherever you go.

Here are some ideas for adding details to your paper squishy:

Feature	How to make it
Eyes	Use googly eyes or draw them on with a marker.
Nose	Use a small piece of felt or pom-pom.
Mouth	Draw it on with a marker or use a piece of thread.
Hair	Use yarn or felt to create hair.
Clothing	Use fabric scraps or felt to create clothing.

Adding Decorations

Once you have your basic squishy shape, it’s time to add some decorations. Here are a few ideas:

Paint: You can use acrylic paint, fabric paint, or even nail polish to add color and designs to your squishy.
Markers: Permanent markers are a great way to draw on details, such as eyes, noses, and mouths.
Glitter: You can glue glitter to your squishy for a sparkly effect.
Stickers: Stickers are a quick and easy way to add some personality to your squishy.

Embroidery: If you’re feeling crafty, you can embroider designs onto your squishy.

Choosing the Right Decorations

Type of Decoration	Suitable for
Paint	Smooth surfaces
Markers	Smooth surfaces
Glitter	Smooth surfaces
Stickers	Any surface
Embroidery	Thick paper

When choosing decorations, keep in mind the type of paper you’re using. For example, paint and markers work best on smooth paper, while stickers and glitter can be used on any surface.

Also, consider the purpose of your squishy. If you’re making a squishy to play with, you’ll want to choose decorations that are durable. If you’re making a squishy for decoration, you can choose more delicate decorations.

With a little creativity, you can create a unique and personalized paper squishy that you’ll love!

Sealing the Edges

Once you’ve assembled your squishy, it’s time to seal the edges to prevent any air from escaping. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Materials:

Item	Description
Mod Podge or clear glue	Adhesive for sealing edges
Spoon or paintbrush	Tool for applying glue
Paper towels or tissue paper	For cleaning up excess glue

Apply a thin layer of glue: Use a spoon or paintbrush to apply a thin layer of glue along the edges of the squishy where the paper pieces overlap.
Press and hold: Press the edges together firmly and hold for a few seconds to ensure they adhere securely.
Wipe away excess glue: Immediately wipe away any excess glue that squeezes out using a paper towel or tissue paper.
Reinforce with tape (optional): For added strength, you can reinforce the edges by wrapping masking tape or clear packing tape around them.
Allow to dry: Let the glue dry completely before using or handling your squishy. Drying times may vary depending on the type of glue used, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Fluff and enjoy: Once the edges are sealed and dry, your paper squishy is complete! Fluff it up and enjoy the satisfying tactile experience.

Enhancing Texture and Details

Shading and Highlights

To create depth and dimension, add shading and highlights with colored pencils or markers. Shade the crevices and folds to create shadows, and highlight the raised areas to emphasize the details.

Embossing

Embossing adds a raised effect to the paper. Trace your desired design onto the back of the paper and use a dull pencil or embossing tool to push the design through from the back.

Scoring and Folding

Scoring the paper lightly along the desired fold lines will make the folds sharper and easier to execute. Use a ruler and a scoring tool or a dull knife to score the paper.

Fringing

Fringing involves cutting small strips of paper around the edges of the squish to create a textured effect. Use sharp scissors or a craft knife to carefully cut the fringes.

Layering and Gluing

Add texture and depth by layering multiple pieces of paper. Glue the layers together and sand the edges to create a smooth transition.

Decoupage

Decoupage involves applying patterned paper or fabric to the surface of the squish. Cut out the desired design and use a glue medium to adhere it to the squish.

Molding and Shaping

To create complex shapes and textures, mold the paper after it has been dampened. Use your hands, a mold, or other tools to shape the paper and hold it in place until it dries.

Personalizing Your Squishy

8. Customize the Texture

For a unique touch, experiment with different textures to suit your personal preference. You can add:
– Cotton balls: Roll them up tightly and insert them into the squishy for a fluffy, cloud-like feel.
– Sequins: Sprinkle sequins over the glue before folding the paper for a sparkly, eye-catching effect.
– Crinkled tissue paper: Crush tissue paper and mix it into the squishy mixture for an extra layer of crinkly, satisfying sensation.
– Scented oils: Add a few drops of essential oil to the glue or paper mixture to create a relaxing or invigorating fragrance.
– Glitter: Sprinkle glitter onto the squishy before it dries for a dazzling, shimmering effect.
– Paint: Once the squishy is dry, paint it with acrylic or fabric paint to add patterns, designs, or even draw on a face.
– Buttons or pom-poms: Glue small buttons or pom-poms onto the squishy for a tactile, playful touch.
– Embroidery: Use an embroidery needle and thread to stitch designs, motifs, or even names onto the squishy.
– Markers or crayons: Draw directly onto the paper before folding it into the squishy to add unique designs and patterns.
– Ribbons or tassels: Attach ribbons or tassels to the squishy for an extra touch of decoration and a bit of flair.

Drying

Once you have shaped your squishy, let it dry completely. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the thickness of your squishy and the humidity of the air.

You can speed up the drying process by placing your squishy in a warm, dry place. However, do not place your squishy in direct sunlight, as this can cause it to become brittle.

9. Finishing Touches

Once your squishy is completely dry, you can add finishing touches to make it more unique and personal.

Here are a few ideas for finishing touches:

Coloring: You can color your squishy with markers, paint, or even fabric paint.

Embellishments: You can add embellishments to your squishy, such as glitter, sequins, or beads.

Scent: You can add a few drops of essential oil to your squishy to give it a pleasant scent.

Personalization: You can personalize your squishy by adding a name, monogram, or other special design.

Finishing Touch	Materials	Instructions
Coloring	Markers, paint, or fabric paint	Apply your desired color to the squishy.
Embellishments	Glitter, sequins, or beads	Glue the embellishments to the squishy.
Scent	Essential oil	Add a few drops of essential oil to the squishy.
Personalization	Name, monogram, or other design	Use a permanent marker or paint to personalize the squishy.

Caring for and Enjoying Your Paper Squishy

Storage

Store your paper squishy in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. High temperatures and humidity can cause the paper to warp or deteriorate.

Avoid Water

Paper squishies are not waterproof. Avoid exposing them to water or other liquids. If your squishy gets wet, gently pat it dry with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry completely.

Handle with Care

Handle your paper squishy gently to prevent tearing or crumpling. Avoid squeezing it too tightly or applying excessive force.

Use a Soft Touch

When squishing your squishy, use a gentle touch. Avoid applying pressure to any sharp edges or corners.

Keep it Clean

Regularly clean your paper squishy with a soft brush or a lightly damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt.

Supervise Children

Supervise young children when they are playing with paper squishies to prevent accidental ingestion or choking.

Enjoyment

Paper squishies can be a fun and stress-relieving activity. Squish them to your heart’s content, but remember to handle them with care.

Multiple Uses

In addition to being a squishy toy, paper squishies can also be used for decorative purposes.

Table: Paper Squishy Maintenance Tips

Tip	Description
Store in a cool, dry place	Protects from warping and deterioration
Avoid water	Prevents damage and discoloration
Handle with care	Prevents tearing or crumpling
Use a soft touch	Avoids pressure damage
Keep it clean	Removes dust and dirt

How To Make Paper Squishies

Paper squishies are a fun and easy way to relieve stress and boredom. They are also a great way to express your creativity. With just a few simple materials, you can make your own paper squishies in any shape or size you want.

To make a paper squishy, you will need:

Construction paper
Scissors
Glue
Markers or crayons (optional)

Instructions:

Cut out two pieces of construction paper in the shape you want your squishy to be.
Glue the two pieces of paper together around the edges, leaving a small opening at the top.
Fill the squishy with crumpled-up paper or cotton balls.
Glue the opening shut.
Decorate your squishy with markers or crayons (optional).