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Make a humpback whale

Make a humpback whale hero

Have fun making this toilet roll-based model of a humpback whale

Ages 5+

(adult supervision)

15+ mins

Part of:

Convex Seascape Survey

This activity helps children understand humpback whales through an engaging craft project. By creating a 3D model using everyday materials, students can visualise and learn about the whale’s unique body shape, distinctive fins and flippers.

Activity steps

  1. Colour your humpback whale template using photographs from the internet or other resources as a guide. Did you know that every humpback whale’s tail pattern is unique, just like a human fingerprint?

  2. Carefully cut out the template, lower jaw, and fins.

  3. Place the cut-out template along the side of the toilet roll and stick the long tab along its length. Make sure that the paper is lined up horizontally with the length of the toilet roll.

  4. Gently roll the template around the toilet roll so that it covers it completely and tape the other tab down along the body.

  5. Add the lower jaw, sticking this to the underside of the body opposite the head.

  6. Add the fins to the side of the humpback whale. There are outline guides to help position these.

  7. That’s it. Now you can add your humpback whale to a display about life in the ocean!

Safety guidance

  • Some younger children (ages 5-7) may need help with using scissors safely, cutting out the template, and taping and glueing accurately

  • Use child-safe scissors appropriate for the child's age

  • Supervise internet research for whale photographs if children are looking these up

  • Work on a clean, clear surface with enough space for materials

  • Be mindful of any allergies to craft materials (some adhesives, etc.)

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