How to Make a Gumball Caterpillar

A gumball caterpillar is a fun and easy craft project for children.

Gumball caterpillars are an easy yet fun activity for an insect-themed birthday party, a classroom art project or an afternoon activity at home. Use this craft to capture the attention of young children as you teach them about these creepy-crawly members of the insect kingdom, or to keep them occupied during a rainy day. This craft encourages young children to use their creativity and leaves them with a fun treat to show off and enjoy.

Things You'll Need

• Gumballs
• Toothpicks
• Black shoestring licorice
• Mini M&Ms
• Glue or frosting

Instructions

1. Break the toothpicks in half. Stick one gumball on each end of a toothpick. Leave a 1/4- to 1/2-inch space between the gumballs. Insert the end of a second toothpick into the side of one of the gumballs and add a second gumball on the toothpick's opposite end. Continue to create a chain of gumballs until the caterpillar's body is the desired length. Slightly angle a few of the toothpicks to create a zig-zagging body.

2. Cut a piece of black shoestring licorice into 3-inch pieces. Wrap a piece of licorice around the toothpick in each space between the gumballs and tie a knot. Turn the licorice pieces so all ends are pointing downward to form legs for your caterpillar. Turn the licorice piece behind the front gumball so that the ends are pointing upward to form the caterpillar's antennas.

3. Attach two mini M&Ms to the surface of the first gumball with glue to create eyes. Use frosting to attach the M&Ms if you would like the craft to be fully edible. Add a third M&M below the eyes to give your caterpillar a nose and complete the craft.

Tips & Warnings

• Alternate the colors of the gumballs as you string them together to create a colorful caterpillar.

References

• Disney Family Fun: Candy Crafts