Tissue Paper Bees

Tissue paper bees are a simple, fun preschool craft that kids can make with basic supplies and a little creativity. If you’re looking for engaging bee activities for kids, this easy project is perfect for spring lessons, insect themes, or just a hands-on afternoon activity.

With just tissue paper, glue, and a simple template, children can create bright yellow and black bees while building fine motor skills. This craft is easy to set up, mess-friendly, and works well for both classrooms and at-home learning.

How to Make Tissue Paper Bees

Tissue paper bees are a simple preschool craft made by gluing yellow and black tissue paper onto a bee template. Kids crumple and stick the paper to create a textured, colorful bee. This activity builds fine motor skills and is easy to set up with basic craft supplies.

Supplies Needed for Tissue Paper Bees

• scissors
• glue
• pencil
• hole punch
• toilet paper roll or cardboard
• black, yellow and white tissue paper
• googly eye

Tissue Paper Bee Craft Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bee Template
Print the bee template (at the bottom of the post) and cut it out. Trace the template onto cardboard or a toilet paper roll, then cut out your bee shape to create a sturdy base.

Step 2: Cut the Tissue Paper
Cut yellow and black tissue paper into rectangles about 4” x 8”. You will need several pieces of each color to cover the bee.

Step 3: Create Tissue Paper Strips
Twist each piece of tissue paper into long, thin strips. Once twisted, gather the strips together and cut them in half lengthwise to make shorter pieces.

Step 4: Attach Tissue Paper to the Bee
Glue the tissue paper strips onto the bee shape. Start with black strips, then alternate with yellow strips to create the classic bee pattern. Continue until the entire bee is covered.

Step 5: Trim Excess Tissue Paper
Turn the bee over and use scissors to trim any excess tissue paper hanging over the edges for a clean shape.

Step 6: Add the Wings
Cut a piece of white tissue paper about 4” x 8” and fold it in half lengthwise. Trace the wing template along the folded edge and cut it out.
Unfold the wings, pinch the center, and thread it through a hole punched at the top of the bee. Spread the wings out evenly.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
Glue a googly eye onto the bee to complete your craft.

Tips for Making Tissue Paper Bees with Kids

• Pre-cut tissue paper for younger kids
  Cut the tissue paper into smaller pieces ahead of time to make the activity easier for preschoolers and reduce frustration.
• Use glue sticks for less mess
  Glue sticks are easier for little hands to control and help prevent too much glue from soaking through the tissue paper.
• Work in small sections
  Apply glue to one area at a time so it doesn’t dry before kids can place the tissue paper.
• Encourage crumpling for texture
  Show kids how to gently crumple the tissue paper before gluing—it helps create a fluffy, textured look on the bee.
• Expect each bee to look different
  Let kids place colors and pieces in their own way. There’s no “perfect” bee, which makes this craft fun and low-pressure.
• Protect your workspace
  Use a tray, placemat, or scrap paper underneath to make cleanup quick and easy.

Easy Variations for Tissue Paper Bees

• Use construction paper instead of cardboard
• Swap the cardboard base for yellow construction paper if you want a quicker, no-prep option. This works well for group settings or classrooms. Try a paper plate bee version
• Use a small paper plate as the base and add tissue paper stripes directly onto it. This creates a sturdier, ready-to-hang craft. Make mini tissue paper bees
• Cut smaller bee shapes and use tiny pieces of tissue paper for a quicker activity or to make a whole swarm of bees. Add antennae for extra detail
• Glue on pipe cleaners or draw antennae with a marker to give your bee more personality. Use different materials for stripes
• Instead of tissue paper, try using torn construction paper, paint, or even washi tape for the black and yellow stripes. Turn it into a hanging craft
• Attach a piece of string or yarn through the top hole so kids can hang their bees as decorations.

More Bee Activities for Kids

Looking for more fun and engaging bee-themed ideas? Try these additional activities to keep the learning going:

• Explore more bee crafts for preschoolers with simple, hands-on projects kids can make at home or in the classroom.
• Add these insect activities for kids to your lesson plans to expand on bug-themed learning and play.
• Keep the creativity going with spring crafts for preschoolers that pair perfectly with this bee activity.
• Try other easy paper crafts for kids using basic supplies you already have on hand.
• Build fine motor skills with more hands-on preschool activities that are both fun and educational.

Grab the Tissue Paper Bee Template

Download your tissue paper bee template and follow the step-by-step instructions to create a fun, hands-on activity your preschoolers will love.

Tissue Paper Bee Craft FAQs

This tissue paper bee craft is a simple and engaging way to combine creativity with hands-on learning. Using just a few basic supplies, kids can create colorful bees while practicing fine motor skills and following easy step-by-step directions.

Whether you’re adding this to your lesson plans or looking for a quick afternoon activity, these tissue paper bees are a fun and low-prep option that preschoolers will love. Be sure to grab the template, gather your supplies, and enjoy making your own buzzing creations together!