Make a cloud

What can I use if I don't have a paper plate, cotton balls, or yarn?

Use cardboard from a cereal box or scrap cardstock for the cloud base instead of a paper plate, torn tissue paper or polyester pillow stuffing in place of cotton balls, and baker's twine, ribbon, or even a strip of fabric for the 30 cm hanging string.

What should I do if the hole rips or the cotton balls won't stick?

If the hole rips when you push the string through (step 6), reinforce it with a small piece of tape or use a hole punch and tie a double knot at the back, and if cotton balls won't stick, press them firmly onto a dab of glue and let the glue dry flat and undisturbed until secure (step 11–13).

How can I adapt this craft for different age groups?

For younger kids, have an adult draw and cut the cloud and pre-punch the hole so they can press cotton balls onto glue with a glue stick, while older children can paint the base before cutting, add layers of tinted cotton or glitter, or attach beads and small LED fairy lights to the hanging string for a more advanced project.

How can we extend or personalize the hanging cloud after it's finished?

Personalize by painting or writing a name on the base before covering with cotton (step 2–4), glue on blue yarn or strings with beads for raindrops, add sparkly glue or battery fairy lights under the cotton for a glowing effect, and then photograph the finished cloud to share on DIY.org (final step).