Toilet Roll Fish

Chloe looooves feeding these silly open-mouth fish with tiny paper snacks and pompoms while learning all about saltwater animals and sea life.

  • Category: Saltwater animals

You’ll Need:

  • Empty toilet paper rolls
  • Colored paint or markers
  • Paintbrushes
  • Colored paper (for fins and tails)
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Black marker for details

Let’s Make it:

  1. Paint the entire toilet roll in your chosen color and let it dry.
  2. Use a lighter paint color or marker to draw fish scale patterns all over the body.
  3. Cut tail and fin shapes from colored paper. You can make the tail wide and wavy for extra movement.
  4. Flatten one end of the toilet roll slightly, then glue or tape the tail inside the opening so it sticks out.
  5. Glue on paper eyes (or draw them) near the open end. Paint or outline the rim of the open end to make the mouth stand out.
  6. Attach side fins to each side of the fish.

Did You Know?

  • Many saltwater fish have bright colors that help them hide in coral reefs.
  • Some saltwater fish sleep with their eyes open because they don’t have eyelids.
  • Many saltwater fish have tiny teeth (even on their tongues) to help them scrape algae or crunch shells.
  • Fish don’t drink water like we do — they absorb seawater through their skin and gills to stay hydrated.

Why We Love It:

  • Encourages pretend play and storytelling.
  • Sparks curiosity about marine life and underwater habitats.
  • Teaches about ocean animals in a fun, hands-on way.
  • Turns recyclables into ocean-inspired art — sustainable and educational.

Share this Activity

You might also like

This website uses cookies to make sure you get the best experience with us Learn more

Decline
Got it!