Lion 3D Paper Craft Template

Hello fellow crafters! Today I have a simple and fun project for you and your little ones to enjoy.

I’ve designed a free printable 3D Paper Craft Lion that is very easy to assemble.

It’s a great activity for preschoolers and kindergarteners to practice their crafting skills while creating a cute animal figure they can play with afterward.

This project is straightforward and doesn’t require many supplies, making it a perfect choice for a quick and rewarding crafting session at home or in the classroom.

Love this printable? Check out all other paper craft templates here!

About This Paper Craft Lion

This printable is a simple template that allows your child to build their own stand-up lion figure.

The craft consists of just two pieces to cut out from a single sheet:

The main body piece, which includes the lion’s head, legs, and torso.
A small, separate tail piece.

Download link at the bottom of the page

Step by step instruction sheet

When folded and glued, these pieces create an adorable, blocky lion that stands on its own.

Benefits of This Craft Activity

This simple paper craft offers several benefits for young children. It’s a fun way to support their development.

Fine Motor Skills: The process of cutting along the lines and carefully folding the paper helps strengthen hand muscles and coordination.
Following Instructions: The craft involves a clear, four-step process that encourages children to follow directions in sequence.
Spatial Awareness: Kids get to see how a flat, 2D shape can be transformed into a 3D object, which is a great exercise in spatial reasoning.
Imaginative Play: Once the lion is complete, it becomes a new toy! This can inspire storytelling and imaginative play.

Supplies Needed for Your Lion

You only need a few common craft supplies to bring this little lion to life.

Supplies Needed:

Here’s what you’ll need for this fun paper craft:

Our Free Lion Craft PDF: Contains the single-page template.
Printer: A standard home printer.
Paper: White Cardstock is recommended for a sturdier result.
Scissors: For cutting out the template pieces.
Glue: A glue stick or liquid craft glue will work well.

How to Assemble Your Lion

Building your 3D lion is a simple process. Just follow these four easy steps shown on the printable.

Assembly Instructions:

Cut Out Pieces: Carefully cut out the main lion body shape and the separate tail piece from the template.
Fold the Lines: Fold all the flaps and sides along the dotted lines on the main body piece to give it shape.
Glue the Body: Apply glue to each of the gray flaps and press them into place to form the lion’s 3D body.
Attach the Tail: Put a small dab of glue on the base of the tail piece and attach it to the back of the lion’s body.

Tips for a Great Crafting Session

Here are a couple of extra tips to make this activity go smoothly:

Use Cardstock: While regular paper works, I highly recommend printing on a lightweight cardstock. It makes the lion sturdier and easier to fold and glue.
Allow Drying Time: Give the glue a moment to set after forming the body before you attach the tail.
Help with Cutting: Younger children might need a little help with cutting out the pieces, especially around the legs.