There’s something wonderfully satisfying about squeezing a soft, squishy toy – and making your own is even better!
Whether you’re crafting with kids, looking for a stress-relief project, or just want to create something fun and tactile, DIY squishies are the perfect blend of creativity and play.
From paper squishies you can decorate to squishy balls you can toss around, these projects are budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and endlessly customizable.
Let’s dive into four fantastic DIY squishy ideas you can make today!
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DIY Paper Squishy
Paper squishies are one of the easiest and most creative squishy projects out there. They’re perfect for kids who love to color and design their own toys.
Materials:
- White paper or cardstock
- Markers, colored pencils, or crayons
- Scissors
- Clear packing tape
- Stuffing material (cotton balls, foam pieces, or tissue paper)
- Optional: sponge pieces for extra squishiness
How to Make It:
Draw your design on paper – think cute animals, food items, or fun characters.
Color it in brightly, then cut it out. Create a matching back piece or leave it plain.
Tape around the edges, leaving a small opening. Stuff with your filling material until it’s pleasantly squishy, then seal the opening with tape.
The clear tape gives it a slightly glossy, protective finish that makes it more durable for squeezing!
Paper Squishy tutorial and Printable
Halloween Cookie Paper Squishies
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DIY Squishy Ball
A homemade squishy ball is perfect for stress relief, fidgeting, or just tossing around when you need a break.
Materials:
- Balloons (2-3 per ball)
- Filling options: flour, rice, cornstarch, or play sand
- Funnel or plastic bottle with cut spout
- Scissors
- Optional: markers to decorate
How to Make It:
Stretch out your balloon to make it easier to fill. Use a funnel or cut plastic bottle to pour your chosen filling into the balloon – flour creates a soft, moldable feel while rice gives more texture.
Fill until the balloon is about the size of a tennis ball. Tie off the balloon tightly, then cut the neck.
For extra durability, stretch a second balloon over the first (cut the neck off first).
You can even draw fun faces or patterns on the outside!
Homemade Taba Squishy
Taba squishies (also known as mochi squishies) have that super-soft, slow-rise quality that’s incredibly satisfying to squeeze.
Materials:
- Silicone sealant or silicone caulk (clear or white)
- Acrylic paint or food coloring
- Mixing bowl and stick
- Cornstarch or baby powder
- Plastic wrap or mold
- Gloves for handling
How to Make It:
Mix silicone sealant with a small amount of paint or food coloring in your bowl. Add cornstarch gradually until the mixture becomes less sticky and more moldable.
Knead it with gloved hands, adding more cornstarch as needed. Shape your squishy by hand or press into a mold. Let it cure for 24-48 hours.
The result is a soft, slow-rising squishy with that authentic mochi texture!
How to make a Taba Squishy at home
Clever & Unexpected Ways to Make Squishies at Home
The Best DIY Squishy Kit for Every Crafter
Looking for the perfect hands-on activity that’s equal parts satisfying and creative? A DIY squishy kit brings the joy of making your own soft, squeezable creations right to your craft table.
Whether you’re shopping for kids who love sensory play or adults seeking a relaxing, tactile project, these kits offer everything you need to design custom squishies in fun shapes and colors.
They’re ideal for birthday gifts, family craft afternoons, or solo creative sessions when you want something playful and low-pressure.
Most kits include foam, paint, and simple instructions that make the process beginner-friendly, so anyone can jump in and start squishing. It’s a delightful way to spark imagination, practice fine motor skills, and end up with adorable keepsakes you actually made yourself.
Conclusion
DIY squishies are more than just toys – they’re creative projects that bring joy, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment.
Whether you’re drawn to the artistic freedom of paper squishies, the tactile satisfaction of squishy balls, the authentic texture of taba squishies, or the convenience of having your own squishy kit ready to go, there’s a project here for every maker.
These crafts are wonderfully accessible, using materials you likely already have at home, and they’re perfect for all ages. The best part? Each squeeze reminds you that you made something fun with your own hands.
What’s your favorite DIY squishy idea? Have you tried making squishies before, or do you have a favorite filling or design? I’d love to hear about your squishy adventures – leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
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Want to remember it? Save these DIY Squishy ideas on your favorite pinterest board
