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Dad Cootie Catcher Template: Father's Day Origami

  • Writer: Jessie
    Jessie
  • Jun 6
  • 4 min read

All art projects & crafts require adult supervision. This post may contain affiliate links. Read our full disclosure policy. 


Two examples of Dad cootie catchers.

Looking for a Father’s Day craft that’s full of fun, laughs, and a little bit of silly? Our Dad Cootie Catcher Template is here to save the day—with an origami twist! This isn’t just any fortune teller... it magically transforms into a talking Dad puppet that kids can color and play with.


Kids love cootie catchers, and this version takes it to a whole new level. With a few simple folds, a printed template, and some markers, your child can turn a flat piece of paper into a wacky and loveable paper puppet of their dad—complete with glasses and a baseball cap that says “#1 Dad.” It’s part craft, part card, and part comedy show all in one!


Two examples of Dad cootie catchers.

What makes this even better? It’s incredibly easy to make. Just print out our template on regular paper, color it in, cut along the guide, and follow the folding instructions. Within minutes, kids will be giggling as they make their puppet “talk” and even deliver hilarious one-liners in their best Dad voice.


This craft is perfect for classrooms, Sunday School activities, or a quiet afternoon at home. It’s designed with bold lines and big spaces for coloring, so even young children can get involved with parent's help assembling.


Example of completed Dad cootie catcher.

The best part? It’s totally customizable. Let your child add Dad’s favorite shirt, his signature beard, or even a little speech bubble with a personalized message.


So get ready to fold, color, and laugh—this Father's Day Origami is a simple craft that turns into something seriously special. Scroll down to grab your free printable template and make a memory this Father’s Day that Dad will never forget (especially if his puppet self starts asking for snacks).


Don't Miss Out On These Other Father's Day Crafts...

Father’s Day is all about showing Dad just how awesome he is—and what better way to do it than with a whole lineup of fun and easy crafts that kids can make with love! On the blog, you’ll find everything from wearable paper ties (yes, he can actually wear them!) to pun-filled coloring pages that’ll have Dad chuckling while he colors. Whether your little one is into cutting, coloring, or gluing, there’s a project that fits every age and ability—and every kind of dad!


Feeling extra crafty? Grab your glue sticks and scissors for a DIY paper trophy that proudly says “#1 Dad!” or whip up a handmade card bursting with love (and maybe a few dad jokes, too). These crafts are sweet, silly, and packed with personality—perfect for classroom celebrations, family craft time, or even breakfast-in-bed surprises. No store-bought gifts needed when you’ve got creativity, construction paper, and a whole lot of heart!


Dad Cootie Catcher Template: Father's Day Origami:

Example of printer printing dad cootie catcher template.

Directions to download your Father's day Cootie Catcher template at the bottom of this post. Print on 8.5x11 white paper. Cut out the pieces.


Pro Tip: Absolutely, precise cutting is key to a successful origami project. It ensures that the template aligns accurately during the folding process, resulting in a cleaner and more polished final product. So, take your time, follow the cut lines carefully, and enjoy the origami journey!


Example of coloring dad cootie catcher template.

Coloring the Dad Cootie Catcher is half the fun! Kids can personalize every inch of this playful puppet with their favorite colors, turning it into a mini version of their own dad! Kids can bring special details of their dad to life with crayons, markers, or colored pencils. It’s a chance for little artists to get creative and show off their coloring skills while making something that’s thoughtful, silly, and totally one-of-a-kind.


Example of how to fold the dad cootie catcher template.

Fold the cootie catcher in half horizontally and unfold. Then fold the cootie catcher vertically and unfold.


Example of how to fold the dad cootie catcher template.

Flip it over so the printed side is facing down. Take the bottom right corner and fold the point into the center. Repeat step on each corner until all four corners are folded.


Example of how to fold the dad cootie catcher template.

Flip the cootie catcher again so the printed side is facing down. Take the four corners and fold them into the center again.


Example of how to fold the dad cootie catcher template.

Fold the cootie catcher in half vertically and undo the fold. Then fold horizontally and unfold.


Example of how to fold the dad cootie catcher template.

Slip your fingers under the flaps and open the cootie catcher.


Example of how to glue the dad cootie catcher template.

Glue the top sides together and then the bottom sides together. You will no longer be able to open the cootie catcher if you do this but it will help the puppet stay together for kids to play with.


Example of how to glue the dad cootie catcher template.

Glue the legs to the bottom of the cootie catcher.


Example of how to glue the dad cootie catcher template.

Glue the arms to the sides of the cootie catcher.


Example of how to glue the dad cootie catcher template.

Glue the hat to the top of the cootie catcher.


Example of how to glue the dad cootie catcher template.

Glue the ears to the side of the cootie catcher.


Examples of completed Dad cootie catchers.

Hooray! Your Origami Dad Cootie Catcher is now complete and ready for some exciting fun! Prepare to embark on imaginative games or even put on a captivating puppet show with this awesome creation. For even more adventure, try our other cootie catcher templates such as the cow or the bald eagle.


Example of how to download template onto your computer.

How to download Origami Dadl Instructions:

How to download the origami Dad Cootie Catcher Template? Sign up to become a member of Artsy Kids Zone to download. The best part is that memberships are FREE! Not only will you gain access to this project but you will also gain access to this Artsy Kids Zone downloads.


***These printables are intended for personal and school use exclusively. Unauthorized copying, uploading, republishing, distributing or alteration of these files in any manner is strictly prohibited. If you plan to showcase these printables, please ensure to include a link back to artsykidszone.com.


Example of completed Dad cootie catcher.

More Art Projects...

Whether your kiddo wants to craft a pirate puppet, make a hatching dragon egg, or try their hand at magical crayon resist art, we’ve got something to spark every imagination. Our projects are made with kids in mind—easy to prep, fun to make, and perfect for classrooms, rainy days, or weekend adventures at the kitchen table. So don’t be shy—dig in, get messy, and let your child’s creativity run wild at Artsy Kids Zone!





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