Turn Egg Cartons into Adorable Easter Hens — Easy Step-by-Step DIY

Make charming little Easter hens from an empty egg carton — a simple, kid-friendly craft that doubles as a practical egg holder and cute seasonal decor. This project uses easy-to-find supplies (foam sheets, feathers, googly eyes) and basic tools. Follow the step-by-step instructions below and use the photos as a visual guide.

Materials

• Empty egg carton (cardboard type)
• Red or pink foam sheet (for comb and wattles)
• Yellow foam sheet (for the beak)
• Feathers (red shown, but any color will work)
• Googly eyes

Tools

• Scissors
• Hot glue and glue gun
• Scalpel or precision cutting tool (e.g., X-Acto knife) — use with care

Instructions

1. Cut out the basic hen shape from the egg carton. Keep one egg cup fully intact at the rear — this will hold an egg.
2. In front of that intact cup, leave one of the taller protruding sections to form the hen's head and neck. Keep nearby portions of cups to form the body and wings — try to preserve similar amounts on either side for balanced wings.
3. Use the photos as a visual reference while cutting; the shapes are easier to follow visually than by words alone.

Next, cut the comb and wattles from the red or pink foam sheet. The comb sits on top of the head; the wattles go beneath the beak.

Cut the beak from the yellow foam sheet. A diamond shape with a fold down the middle creates a simple open beak effect.

Now glue the pieces in place. Start by attaching the comb to the top of the head. Glue the googly eyes near the top of the head and the beak just below them. Attach the wattles under the beak. Finally, glue feathers to the sides to form the wings.

When the glue is dry, place an egg in the rear cup to complete the hen.

Notes & Tips

• Construction paper can be used instead of foam sheets if you prefer.
• Feathers in any color work — pick shades that contrast with the carton for more visual pop.
• When using a hot glue gun or scalpel, supervise children and take proper safety precautions.