Art Gecko
This month’s tropical-inspired collection features nearly everything you could think of for a little fun under the sun. Felt limes, bright hibiscus, and these funky Painted Paper Geckos make the perfect end-of-summer “to craft” list. Complete with expressive eyes, playful poses, and vibrant markings, these little reptiles are a quick and easy craft with a massive return on cuteness.
Project Includes
PDF Template SVG Cut Files SVG Cut FilesTools
- Cutting Machine (recommended)
- Scissors or Detail Knife (if cutting by hand)
- Cutting Mat (if cutting by hand)
- Bone Folder (if scoring by hand)
Materials
- Cardstock Paper — Basis Green, Lime Green, Aqua, Black, and Pink
- Paint Pen — White, Green, Light Green, Pastel Green, Coral Pink, and Light Pink
- Glue Dots (optional)
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We used our sturdy cardstock in bold, tropical shades to ensure our Painted Paper Geckos are up to the task of decoration and reptilian fun. For the cleanest cuts and perfectly scored fold lines, we recommend a cutting machine using our SVG file. However, if cutting by hand, be sure to use some detail scissors, a bone folder, and our printable PDF template. Once your geckos are assembled, add colorful painted details, gemstones, buttons, glitter, or anything else you can think of to give each one its own personality.
Once complete, these Painted Paper Geckos are surprisingly versatile. Scatter them across a tropical-themed birthday table, hide them among houseplants for a fun surprise, or use removable glue dots to let them "climb" walls, mirrors, windows, or classroom bulletin boards. They're also a sweet addition to summer camps, nature units, or rainy-day crafting with the kiddos.
Over the years I’ve learned it’s the simple projects that leave the most room for imagination, and these Painted Paper Geckos are no exception. Experiment with unexpected color combinations, invent your own tropical species, or challenge kids to design a gecko inspired by their favorite animal. However you decorate them, we'd love to see what you create. Be sure to share your finished geckos with us using #MadeWithLia and in our crafters’ community.
FAQs
How can I display my finished paper geckos?
Use removable glue dots to attach them to walls, mirrors, bulletin boards, or tropical party displays, or tuck them among houseplants for a fun surprise.
Can I cut these paper geckos by hand?
Absolutely. Use the printable PDF template with a detail knife or scissors and score the fold lines with a bone folder before assembling.
Is this paper gecko beginner-friendly
Yes! This project is perfect for beginners and children, with simple assembly and plenty of room for creative decorating.
Explore More
Want more projects like this one? Check out all of our tropical crafts. Or you can explore the rest of our May collection! For daily craft ideas and inspiration, join us on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.
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Discussion
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2 Comments
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Amy
May 1, 2021 at 8:22am
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Lia
May 6, 2021 at 9:46am
@Amy
Back to the TopLOVE the geckos! But I wish you had a full color version available. The B/W images are great for kids to color, but I want to use this for a party decoration and don’t have the time or desire to color a bunch of geckos. Would you consider adding a full color version?
Glad you love them! The intention behind this project is for you to color them and make them your own. It goes by pretty quickly if you use a paint pen!