Looking for a simple and fun summer craft for kids? This easy ice cream cone craft is the perfect way to get creative on a hot day — no mess, no stress, and it looks good enough to eat! Using basic materials like brown cartons, cotton wool, water paint, and paint brushes, this activity is great for toddlers, preschoolers, and young kids who love a sweet, hands-on project.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Brown carton or cardboard
- Cotton wool
- Water-based paint
- Paint brushes
- Black marker
- Glue
- Small container of water
How to Make an Ice Cream Cone Craft – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Draw the Cone
Start by drawing a large ice cream cone shape on the brown carton using a black marker. Add diagonal lines to create a waffle cone texture.
Step 2: Add the “Ice Cream”
Apply glue to the top of the cone shape (the open, wide part). Gently stick pieces of cotton wool onto the glue, shaping them to look like a scoop of ice cream sitting on the cone.
Step 3: Time to Paint!
Here comes my kids’ favourite part. Dip your paintbrush in paint first, then into the water, and gently brush the cotton wool. This technique creates a soft, melty look, like real ice cream dripping on a summer day. Let kids mix colours and experiment!
Step 4: Let It Dry and Cut It Out
Once the paint is dry, cut out the entire ice cream shape from the carton. Now you have a 3D-looking, colourful summer ice cream cone craft that’s perfect for hanging on the fridge or decorating the playroom.
Watch the Easy Ice Cream craft to see how I made it
Why This Ice Cream Craft Is a Summer Favourite
This craft is a fun way to cool off indoors while still celebrating the flavours of summer. It’s easy, affordable, and encourages sensory play, creativity, and motor skill development — all in one quick activity.
Download Your Free Ice Cream Cone Template!
Want a head start?
Grab my free printable ice cream cone template
for a no-draw version — just print, paint, and enjoy!
Share your colourful cones with us! Tag your creations on social media, such as Instagram and Pinterest, and don’t forget to subscribe for more summer crafts, DIY ideas, and free printables.
