Trophies are a wonderful way to make any kids’ competition feel special. They’re not just shiny rewards – they’re a symbol of effort, playfulness, and memories that last long after the game ends. While it’s easy enough to pop online and buy a trophy, there’s something magical about making one yourself. Crafting DIY trophies can be a fun activity for both adults and children, adding a unique and personal touch to any competition. Here are some simple and budget-friendly ideas to get you started, along with a handy link for ready-made trophies if you’re short on time.
Pre-Made Trophies for When Time Is Short
If you’re not keen on making your own trophy, don’t worry. Sometimes, you just need something ready-made that looks the part. There are plenty of affordable trophies online. There are great selections for all types of events, whether it’s a sports day, a school contest or a birthday party.
Paper Cup Trophies: A Simple and Colourful Classic
Let’s start with one of the easiest DIY trophies: the paper cup trophy. You only need a few simple supplies: paper cups, paint or coloured paper, glue, and maybe some sparkles if you’re feeling fancy. Turn the cup upside down and decorate it in bright, cheerful colours. You could use metallic paint to give it that real trophy feel, or wrap it in shiny foil for extra shine. To make it stand out, glue a small ball or bead on top as a finishing touch. These trophies are lightweight and perfect for small events like birthday games or school contests. Children will be thrilled to take home a trophy they helped make themselves!
Tin Can Trophies: A Durable and Creative Option
If you’re after a sturdier design, tin cans are a brilliant choice. Clean out an old tin can, removing any labels or sharp edges. Once it’s clean and safe, paint it in the colours of your choice. Gold and silver spray paint work beautifully to mimic real trophies, but any bright shade will make it pop. For the classic trophy look, cut out two small pieces of cardboard to create handles. Attach them to the sides of the can with glue or tape. If you want to add a personal touch, consider gluing a small plastic figure, a toy car, or even a mini football on top. Kids love seeing their favourite characters or sports themes come to life!
Egg Carton Trophies: Fun and Eco-Friendly
Egg cartons can be turned into adorable mini trophies with a bit of creativity. Cut out one of the egg cups and paint it in gold, silver, or any bright colour. Then, attach it to a small square of cardboard as a base. Decorate it with ribbons, stickers, or even a tiny nameplate. These trophies are perfect for small competitions, like garden races or mini talent shows. Plus, using egg cartons is a great way to teach children about recycling and reusing materials in a fun and creative way.
Plastic Bottle Trophies: Recycle and Shine
Plastic bottles are another great resource for making DIY trophies. Cut the bottle to your preferred size and paint it in your favourite colour. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could cut the top into interesting shapes like stars or zigzags. Use the bottle cap as a decorative top or a base to make it stand upright. Kids can add stickers or draw patterns on the bottle to make it truly one-of-a-kind. Not only is this a fun craft, but it’s also a great chance to talk to children about reusing plastics in a creative and useful way.
Wooden Spoon Trophies: Whimsical and Fun
Wooden spoons make brilliant bases for quirky and imaginative trophies. Paint the spoon in bright colours and add googly eyes, sequins, or glitter to make it fun and cheerful. You can write the competition name or the winner’s name on the handle to make it extra special. For stability, glue the spoon to a small block of wood or a cardboard stand. These trophies are particularly perfect for cooking contests, or for adding a playful twist to any kids’ event.
DIY trophies are a delightful way to make any kids’ competition feel extra special. They’re fun to create and often end up being more meaningful than store-bought prizes. But if you’re in a rush or need something that looks a bit more polished, there’s always the option of buying pre-made ones. Whatever you choose, remember it’s not just about the trophy – it’s about the excitement, the laughs, and the memories that come with it. So, gather your craft materials, let your imagination run wild, and get ready to celebrate those big smiles on the winners’ faces!
