Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Own DIY Pop It Fidget Toy at Home

By David KimLast Updated April 24, 2025

Introduction

Pop It fidget toys have become a popular tool for both stress relief and sensory play. While commercial versions are widely available, making your own DIY Pop It at home can be both fun and rewarding. This guide provides comprehensive, step-by-step instructions for creating a custom Pop It, along with creative alternatives and tips to ensure a successful project. Whether you’re crafting with kids, looking for a budget-friendly solution, or seeking a personalized design, this tutorial offers accessible methods and expert advice.

Understanding the Pop It Fidget Toy

A Pop It is a tactile fidget toy made up of silicone bubbles that can be pushed in and out, creating a satisfying popping sound and sensation. Originally designed as a sensory aid, Pop Its have gained popularity for their ability to provide stress relief and improve focus in both children and adults. Creating a homemade version allows you to customize the shape, color, and size, and use accessible materials found around the house or at a local craft store.

Materials You Will Need

Before starting, gather the following materials. These are common for most DIY Pop It methods, but feel free to adapt based on availability and personal preference:

Foam craft sheets or thick paper
Cardboard (for structure)
Small balls (like marbles or bouncy balls) to shape the bubbles
Washy tape (or masking tape)
Glue (craft or hot glue)
Scissors
Hair straightener (optional, for molding foam)
Markers or decorations (optional)

For younger children or classrooms, paper-based Pop Its require only basic supplies and can be completed safely without heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making a Foam Pop It

This method creates a durable and tactile Pop It using foam, cardboard, and marbles. Here’s how you can make one at home:

1. Shaping the Bubbles

Cut the foam sheets into sections just large enough to cover a marble with a bit of extra space. Warm the foam using a hair straightener (with adult supervision), then place the foam over the marble. Use the washy tape as a frame and press down to mold a bubble shape. Carefully remove the bubble and trim the excess foam, leaving a small border for gluing. Repeat for as many bubbles as desired.

Tip:
If you prefer a shiny finish, use glitter foam for a unique look.

2. Creating the Frame

Trace circles onto a cardboard sheet using the inside of the washy tape as a guide. Cut out the circles but keep the surrounding area intact-this will be the main frame that holds each bubble in place. Next, cut your desired overall Pop It shape from the cardboard (such as a square, circle, or custom design).

3. Assembling the Pop It

Trace and cut two matching shapes from the foam sheets to act as the front and back panels of your Pop It. Glue the foam bubbles into the circular holes on the cardboard frame, then sandwich the cardboard between the foam sheets. Secure everything with glue and let it dry completely before use. Decorate as desired.

4. Alternative Methods

If foam is not available, you can use thick paper or cardstock. Cut the paper into squares, fold and tape the edges to create a bubble, and reinforce with tape for extra durability. This approach is ideal for young children, as it avoids heat and sharp tools [1] .

Creative Variations and Customization

One of the biggest advantages of making a DIY Pop It is the ability to customize it. Here are some creative ideas:

Shapes: Try hearts, stars, animals, or themed designs (e.g., fruit or sports balls).
Colors: Use foam or paper in a rainbow of colors for a vibrant look.
Textures: Incorporate different materials such as felt or textured cardstock for sensory variety.
Decorations: Add stickers, glitter, or drawings for a personalized touch.

Some crafters even use clay, balloons, or recycled plastic to form bubbles, though results may vary depending on the materials and skill level involved [3] .

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

DIY projects occasionally present obstacles. Here are some typical issues and solutions:

If bubbles don’t “pop” well, try using thinner foam or paper for more flexibility.
If the frame is unstable, reinforce it with extra cardboard or double-layered foam.
If glue does not hold, use hot glue for stronger bonds (with adult supervision).
If bubbles tear easily, consider taping the edges or using a different material.

Always supervise children when using heat tools or sharp objects. For very young crafters, stick to paper-based designs and pre-cut frames.

Step-by-Step Video Tutorials

For those who prefer visual instructions, several verified video tutorials are available:

You can watch a detailed demonstration on how to make a foam Pop It, including molding bubbles and assembling the frame, on YouTube: [5] .
For paper-based Pop Its and creative alternatives, see this easy-to-follow guide: [1] .
For unique shapes and miniature versions, check out this example: [3] .

Always verify safety and difficulty levels of each video before starting, especially when crafting with kids.

Alternatives and Accessibility

If you lack access to foam, marbles, or other specialty items, here are some accessible alternatives:

Bubble Wrap: Provides instant popping action and can be mounted on a cardboard frame for a quick fidget toy.
Cardboard and Paper: Fold and tape to create bubbles; less durable but highly accessible and safe for classrooms.
Clay and Balloons: Some tutorials use air-dry clay or balloons to form customizable bubbles, but these may require more skill [3] .

For those seeking even more guidance, consider searching for “DIY Pop It tutorial” or “homemade fidget toy guide” on trusted crafting sites or video platforms.

Key Takeaways and Safety Reminders

Making a DIY Pop It is a fun, accessible, and creative project suitable for all ages. By customizing your own fidget toy, you can enjoy sensory play while developing crafting skills. Always supervise young children, use age-appropriate tools and materials, and encourage creativity through decoration and design. Remember to experiment with different materials and reflect on what works best for your needs and preferences.