DIY Tutorials

How to Make a Paper Squishy That Actually Squishes

A practical craft-table guide for printing, coloring, taping, stuffing, sealing, and fixing beginner paper squishies.

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The 5-step method

This is the repeatable process every printable template page links back to. Once a maker learns it, every new template becomes easier.

Start with a simple outline, print at 100% scale, and keep the design inside the safe page margins.

Color while the paper is still flat. Large marker areas are easier to smooth before tape is added.

Cover both sides with overlapping strips of clear tape so the paper resists tearing and smudging.

Use small pieces of tissue, clean grocery bag, or soft scrap paper. Too much stuffing makes seams pop.

Close the final opening, press each seam flat, then squeeze gently and patch any air leaks.

Printer paper Best starter paper

Soft, easy to fold, forgiving for kids

Clear packing tape Best budget laminate

Adds shine and keeps marker from smudging

Tissue or clean bag strips Best light stuffing

Compresses softly without forcing seams open

Cardstock Use only for boxy shapes

Stronger but less squishy, better for 3D arcade-style projects

Overstuffing: Use less filling than you think. Paper squishies feel better when the seams are not under pressure.
Skipping tape on the back: Tape both sides before stuffing. Untaped paper tears quickly around corners.
Cutting tiny details too early: Color first, tape second, cut third. Small areas are easier to handle while the sheet is still whole.
Using one long tape strip on curves: Short overlapping strips make smoother cloud, paw, donut, and boba edges.