Create Fun DIY Pool Noodle Ocean Creatures for Summer

One pool noodle, a pair of scissors, and some markers — that’s all it takes to build an army of ocean creatures. Starfish, jellyfish, octopuses, fish — cut, paint, add googly eyes, done. Total prep time is about 10 minutes, and it’s one of the rare crafts that works equally well for a five-year-old and an adult who just wants to make something silly.

The color-coding trick from the original project: bright yellows for starfish, blues for jellyfish. It gives your ocean display instant readability.

What You’ll Need

Pool noodles (varied colors)
Scissors (child-safe if crafting with kids)
Permanent markers or non-toxic craft paints
Googly eyes (optional, for added whimsy)
Glue (for affixing smaller pieces)
Thin wire or pipe cleaners (to add movement)

Step 1: Choose Your Colors

Pick your noodle colors. Each color can represent a different creature — yellows for starfish, blues for jellyfish.

Step 2: Cut the Shapes

Cut the noodles into shapes: circles for body parts, strips for tentacles, triangles for fins. For octopuses and jellyfish, cut long strips and gently curl them to create movement.

Step 3: Add Details

Use permanent markers or paints to add eyes, spots, and stripes. This is where each creature gets its personality.

Step 4: Assemble

Glue the parts together as needed, and don’t forget the googly eyes — they make everything better.

Step 5: Add Hangers (Optional)

Use wire or pipe cleaners to create hangers or give your creatures extra life and dynamism.

Display Ideas

Line them up on a shelf or sunny windowsill, or float them in a shallow bowl of water. They’re perfect for beach parties and themed gatherings — and they hold up well enough to reuse for birthday parties or classroom decorations.

Variations Worth Trying

Textures: Glue on shells or sandpaper for a more tactile feel.
Sizes: Cut larger and smaller sections for a varied ocean display.
Mixed media: Add soft fabrics or felt alongside the pool noodles.
Seasonal themes: Holiday colors and motifs turn them into seasonal decor.

Care and Storage

Store in a basket or container where they’re visible and appreciated — they’re durable enough to last through multiple occasions. Sweep up small noodle bits after crafting and keep leftover materials organized for next time. Pool noodles are water-resistant, but prolonged direct sunlight fades them, so display outdoor creatures in shaded areas.