Introduction: Cereal-Box Guitar

Working in childcare has motivated us to open our imaginations to see objects in a new way. Instead of spending money on crafts, we look for a way to give objects that normally would've been thrown in the trash a new life which is why we thought this would be a perfect craft to do!

Instead of throwing away a cereal box or paper towel roll, we decided to use these items to create a craft that would be quick and easy to do for parents, teachers, or whoever wants an engaging project that children will love.

If you're looking for a fun and interactive craft to do with a child, or are bored and looking for something fun to do, the cereal-box guitar is the craft for you!

Supplies

  • Cereal box of your choice
  • Paper towel roll
  • 4-6 Rubber bands
  • Tape
  • Scissors
  • Pencil

Decoration (Optional)

  • Markers
  • Paint
  • Stickers

Step 1: Decorate Box and Paper Towel Roll (Optional)

If you want to personalize your box and/or paper towel roll, do so now! Coloring, painting, or adding stickers are great ways to make your guitar unique.

Step 2: Cut Out a Circle in the Middle of Your Cereal Box

You will want to cut out a hole in the middle of the front of your box, as pictured, in order to amplify your music.

Step 3: Tape the Top Flaps Closed

You will want to tape the top flaps of your box closed in order to keep them in place.

Step 4: Trace Around the Paper Towel Roll on Top of Your Cereal Box

Place your paper towel roll on the top of your cereal box (where you have previously taped). Position the roll to the middle and trace around it, as pictured. You will be using the paper towel roll to help you gauge how large to make your hole.

Step 5: Cut Out the Traced Hole

Cut around the hole you just traced as best as you can.

Step 6: Put the Paper Towel Roll Through the Top Hole

Push your paper towel roll through the top hole so that it rests just above the front hole.

Step 7: Tape Paper Towel Roll to the Inside

You will want to tape the paper towel roll to the inside of your cereal box in order to keep it from moving.

Step 8: Put Rubber Bands Around Box to Act As Strings

Grab 4-6 rubber bands and wrap them around your box, as pictured. Make sure the bottom of the strings are closer together than they are at the top.

Step 9: Play Guitar

You're done, great job! Have fun making music with your homemade guitar!