Paper sunglasses won’t protect your eyes from the sun — but they’re a genuinely fun craft project for kids’ parties, photo booths, and costume accessories. All you need is cardstock, scissors, and a little creativity.
Here’s the step-by-step to make a pair that actually stays on.
Materials Needed
To make paper sunglasses, you will need the following materials:
- Cardstock or heavy-duty paper in the color of your choice
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Glue
- Hole punch
- Decorative items (optional)
Steps To Make Paper Sunglasses
Step 1: Create a Template
To ensure that your sunglasses are symmetrical, you’ll need to create a template. Start by drawing a large rectangle on a piece of paper. This will serve as the frame for your sunglasses. Use a ruler to ensure that the rectangle is even on all sides.
Next, draw two smaller rectangles on the top of the large rectangle. These will be the lenses for your sunglasses. Again, use a ruler to ensure that the rectangles are symmetrical and even.
Finally, draw two long rectangles on the sides of the large rectangle. These will serve as the arms for your sunglasses. Make sure that the arms are long enough to fit comfortably behind your ears.
Step 2: Cut Out the Template
Once you’ve drawn your template, use scissors to cut it out. Be sure to cut along the lines carefully, as any mistakes will be visible in the final product.
Step 3: Trace the Template onto Cardstock
Using a pencil, trace the template onto your cardstock or heavy-duty paper. You will need to trace two of the larger rectangle (one for each eye), two of the smaller rectangle (one for each lens), and two of the long rectangles (one for each arm).
Step 4: Cut Out the Pieces
Using scissors, carefully cut out the pieces you traced in Step 3. Again, be sure to cut along the lines carefully, as any mistakes will be visible in the final product.
Step 5: Assemble the Frame
Start by assembling the frame for your sunglasses. Take one of the larger rectangles and apply a thin line of glue along the edge. Then, place the other larger rectangle on top of the glue, lining up the edges as closely as possible.
Step 6: Attach the Lenses
Once the glue has dried, it’s time to attach the lenses. Apply a thin line of glue around the edges of one of the smaller rectangles. Then, carefully place it in the opening at the top of the frame. Repeat this process with the other lens.
Step 7: Attach the Arms
Finally, it’s time to attach the arms to your sunglasses. Apply a thin line of glue to one end of each long rectangle. Then, carefully attach them to the sides of the frame, making sure that they are even and symmetrical.
Step 8: Add Decorative Elements (Optional)
If you’d like to add some decorative elements to your paper sunglasses, now is the time to do so. You could use a hole punch to create small designs on the frame, or you could add stickers or glitter for some extra sparkle.
Step 9: Wear Your Sunglasses!
Once your paper sunglasses have dried completely, they’re ready to wear! Slip them onto your face and adjust the arms as necessary to ensure a comfortable fit.
Conclusion
Making paper sunglasses is a fun and easy DIY project that anyone can do. With just a few materials and some basic crafting skills, you can create your very own sunglasses that are both functional and stylish. Follow the steps outlined above to make your own paper sunglasses, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the design. You could experiment with different colors and patterns of cardstock, or even try adding some embellishments like rhinestones or feathers.
It’s important to note that paper sunglasses may not provide the same level of protection as traditional sunglasses, so they should not be used as a substitute for proper eye protection. However, they can be a fun and unique accessory for special occasions or as a DIY project for kids.
It’s a simple, enjoyable project: a few basic materials, a little patience, and you’ve got a custom accessory that’s fun to wear. A crafting party version — everyone making and decorating their own pair — is even better.
Safety note worth repeating: these are costume pieces, not eye protection — never wear them as sun protection or while driving. For a sturdier result, use cardstock over printer paper and add elastic string through punched holes at the temples instead of relying on paper arms. Content reviewed and updated in October 2026.
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