Flapping Bat Craft

Step 1

Print out a free bat template and cut it out. (See Tips section below for link)

Step 2

Trace the bat onto black cardstock.

Step 3

Cut out the bat.

Step 4

Measure a rectangle that's 1 by 4 inches and then cut it out.

Step 5

Measure and make a mark about 1/2 inch in on both ends of the rectangle.

Step 6

Fold the rectangle in half, and then fold the two ends down where marked.

Step 7

Fold the bat in half, then open it up again.

Step 8

Add tacky glue to the tabs of the folded rectangle.

Step 9

Attach the tabs to the center of the bat, lining up the crease in the bat with the tabs and the fold.

Step 10

On the smaller straw, cut a slit 2 inches long.

Step 11

Rotate the straw 180 degrees and cut another 2 inch slit, directly across from the first.

Step 12

Cut off the bendy part from the larger straw (or about 2 inches).

Step 13

Cut a 3 inch slit in this straw, again rotating it 180 degrees before making another 3 inch cut.

Step 14

Open the two flaps of the smaller straw and slide it over the folded backing of the bat. Center it and tape it into place on both sides.

Step 15

Fold the bat in half and slide the larger straw over the smaller straw, pushing the straw flaps up as far as they will go.

Step 16

Attach a long piece of tape vertically to one flap of the larger straw, but don't fully press down the tape yet.

Step 17

Attach a smaller piece of tape horizontally behind the straw.Wrap this piece of tape around the straw and the first piece of tape, allowing the straw to move freely away from the wing.

Step 18

Repeat the taping process on the other wing.

Step 19

Use glue tape on the back of two googly eyes.

Step 20

Attach the eyes to either side of the bat head.

Step 21

Hold the smaller straw with one hand, and with the other hand move the larger straw up and down. Marvel at how the bat can flap its wings!Your flapping bat craft is complete!