Whether you’re planning an aviator-themed event, teaching children about flight, or just looking for a fun aviation-inspired project, DIY aviator crafts are a great way to get creative. These projects can be tailored to kids or adults, with simple designs for beginners and more advanced creations for experienced crafters. Here are some exciting DIY aviator crafts that are perfect for both kids and adults to explore their love for aviation.

1. Paper Airplane Garland

A paper airplane garland is a simple yet fun craft that’s great for decorating a party space or classroom. It’s easy enough for kids to help with, but adults will also enjoy creating beautifully folded airplanes for this aviation-inspired decoration.

What You’ll Need:

• Colored or patterned paper
• String or twine
• Scissors
• Tape or hole punch
• Clothespins (optional)

Instructions:

• Fold Paper Airplanes: Have everyone fold paper airplanes using colored or patterned paper. You can experiment with different airplane designs to vary the shapes and sizes.
• Attach to String: Once you have a collection of airplanes, attach them to a piece of string or twine. You can either tape the airplanes onto the string or punch a small hole in each airplane and thread the string through.
• Hang Your Garland: Hang your paper airplane garland around the room, over doorways, or along a wall for a whimsical aviation-themed decoration.

Tip for Adults: If you want to give it a vintage look, use old maps or aviation-themed paper to fold the airplanes, adding a nostalgic touch.

2. DIY Pilot Goggles

These DIY pilot goggles are perfect for kids to wear during playtime or as part of an aviator-themed costume. They’re easy to make with simple materials and can be decorated to look authentic or playful.

What You’ll Need:

• Cardboard or foam sheet
• Scissors
• Elastic band
• Paint or markers
• Glue
• Plastic wrap or clear plastic (for the goggle lenses)

Instructions:

• Cut the Goggles Shape: Cut out the shape of two goggle lenses from cardboard or foam, leaving a bridge in the center to connect them. You can trace a pair of glasses for size or freestyle your design.
• Create the Lenses: Cut out two circles of plastic wrap or clear plastic slightly larger than the lens openings. Glue these over the goggle openings to mimic lenses.
• Add Straps: Attach an elastic band to the sides of the goggles so they can be worn comfortably. Make sure the band is the right size to fit around the wearer’s head.
• Decorate: Paint or color the goggles using silver, black, or brown for a vintage aviator look. Kids can get creative and use bright colors or stickers for a fun, playful design.

Tip for Adults: For a more authentic look, you can use faux leather or metallic spray paint to give the goggles a realistic appearance. These could also be displayed as party décor.

3. Model Airplane Craft

Building a model airplane is a timeless aviation craft that’s fun for kids and adults alike. You can keep it simple with materials like popsicle sticks or take it to the next level by building models with balsa wood or plastic kits.

What You’ll Need:

• Popsicle sticks or craft sticks
• Glue
• Paint and brushes
• Cardboard or construction paper
• Scissors
• Wooden clothespins (optional)

Instructions:

• Build the Fuselage: Start by gluing two or three popsicle sticks together to form the body of the airplane. You can also use a clothespin for the body for an easier build.
• Add the Wings and Tail: Cut wings and a tail fin from cardboard or construction paper. Glue these onto the popsicle stick body.
• Paint and Decorate: Once the glue is dry, paint your model airplane in fun colors. Use markers or stickers to add details like windows, engines, or propellers.
• Display or Play: You can hang these airplanes as decorations, place them on a shelf, or let kids use them for pretend play.

Tip for Adults: For a more advanced version, try using balsa wood to build a more durable and detailed model. Adults can also get creative by painting their models with realistic colors and designs based on actual aircraft.

4. Airplane Glider Craft

Create a simple and fun airplane glider that kids and adults can build and fly. This craft can be done with basic household materials, making it an easy project with great results.

What You’ll Need:

• Styrofoam trays or thick cardboard
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Markers or paint
• Hot glue (optional)

Instructions:

• Draw the Airplane Template: Use a pencil and ruler to draw the shape of your airplane glider on the styrofoam tray or thick cardboard. Make sure to include a long fuselage, wings, and a tail section.
• Cut Out the Shapes: Carefully cut out the airplane shape. You can cut out the wings separately and glue or tape them onto the fuselage for a more detailed design.
• Decorate: Use markers or paint to decorate your airplane glider with fun colors and designs. Personalize it with your name or favorite aviation symbols.
• Test Fly Your Glider: Once your glider is complete, take it outside and see how far it can fly! Experiment with different designs to see which one flies the best.

Tip for Adults: Try creating larger or more complex glider designs for better flight performance. You can also research real glider designs for inspiration.