How to Make a Squishy: Easy DIY Squishy Ideas Kids Will Love

Squishes have become one of the most popular DIY crafts for kids, teens, and even adults. They’re soft, satisfying to squeeze, and surprisingly easy to make at home with a few inexpensive materials. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity, a fun craft project, or a homemade gift, learning how to make a squishy is both creative and rewarding.

If your kids are squishy obsessed, here you’ll discover several simple methods for making your own squishes in minutes, plus decorating tips, safety advice, and answers to common questions.

What Is a Squishy?

A squishy is a soft toy made from foam, sponge, memory foam, or other compressible materials that slowly returns to its original shape after being squeezed. Squishes come in endless designs from donuts and cupcakes to animals, fruits, and cute cartoon characters.Toys are such fun ways for kids imagination to stay active and they play together and forget about screens. And so it’s best to make them organized and easy to use The good news is that with a few smart storage solutions, you can create a space that is both organized and fun for your little ones. Read:https://sallyohjay.com/childrens-room-storage-solutions/

Many people enjoy squishes even adults because they are amazing great stress relievers and sometimes are cute hand made crafts that are aesthetically pleasing.They are also fun to squeeze, Great for imaginative play, Easy to customize, Wonderful handmade gifts and Helpful for relieving stress and keeping hands busy

Materials You’ll Need

Depending on the method and type  you choose, but first gather the following supplies:

Basic Materials

• Memory foam or kitchen sponge
• Scissors
• Permanent markers
• Acrylic paint
• Paintbrushes
• Fabric paint (optional)
• Puffy paint (optional)
• Clear sealant spray (optional)

Method 1: How to Make a Squishy from a Sponge

This is one of the easiest DIY squishy projects.

Step 1: Choose Your Sponge

Select a clean kitchen sponge without a scrubber attached. A thick sponge works best because it feels softer when squeezed.

Step 2: Draw Your Shape

Using a marker, sketch your design directly onto the sponge.

Popular ideas include: Ice cream, Donuts, Cupcake, Strawberry, Cat, Bear, Heart, Rainbow, Avocado

Step 3: Cut Carefully

Cut along the outline using sharp scissors.

Round off the edges to create a smoother appearance.

Step 4: Paint Your Squishy

Use acrylic or fabric paint to decorate.

For example: Pink frosting, Chocolate drizzle, Sprinkles, Smiling faces, Cute eyes, Blush cheeks. Allow each coat to dry before adding another.

Step 5: Let It Dry

Leave your squishy overnight so the paint dries completely.

Once dry, it’s ready to squeeze!

Method 2: Make a Memory Foam Squishy

Memory foam creates a slower-rising squishy similar to store-bought versions.

You’ll Need Memory foam pillow or cushion, Craft knife or scissors, Acrylic paint, Puffy paint.

Instructions

1. Draw your desired shape.
2. Carefully cut it out.
3. Round the corners.
4. Paint the design.
5. Allow it to dry for 24 hours.

Memory foam provides the satisfying slow-rise effect many people love. Although if you are wondering if you can make a squishy without a memory form your answer is Yes. Kitchen sponges are one of the easiest and most affordable alternatives.

Method 3: Sock Squishy (No Cutting Foam)

DIY Squishes makes a great Fidget Toys. You can design them any way you wish and play with them to your heart’s content. I think my favorite are the paper squishes as they are so “accessible” to all. All you need is paper, stuffing (recycled!), markers and tape… and off you go! Lots of fun and kudos with the kids. A great craft activity for a rainy afternoon.If you don’t have foam, try this simple alternative.

Materials

• Clean sock
• Polyester stuffing or cotton filling
• Needle and thread
• Fabric markers

Steps

1. Fill the sock with stuffing.
2. Shape it into a ball or animal.
3. Sew the opening closed.
4. Draw a cute face.

While it won’t have the classic slow-rise feel, it’s soft and fun for younger children.

Cute Squishy Ideas

Just like the socks, balloons are another great alternative for squishes. Basically fill them with flour corn starch mixed with a little conditioner or water until you get a gooey texture. stuff them into the balloon and tie. you can color or make faces on the balloon if you wish. Beyond traditional foam “slow-rise” squishies, the trend has expanded into several viral variations: Need more  inspiration? Try making:

• Rainbow cloud
• Panda
• Unicorn
• Hamburger
• Pizza slice
• Watermelon
• Pineapple
• Bubble tea
• Croissant
• Dinosaur
• Puppy
• Penguin
• Sunflower
• Mushroom
• Baby chick

Make your squishy extra adorable by adding: Glitter paint, Tiny heart, Polka dots, Smiling faces, Rosy cheek, Colorful sprinkles, Tiny bows, Stars and Flowers.

Flowers made from crepe paper or tissue paper can be just as pretty and they don’t need watering or sunlight, and they’ll never wilt. Flower for flower, paper arrangements are less expensive than those made with live blooms, plus they’ll last for decades not just days if properly preserved. Try one of these paper flower projects to add to your squishyhttps://www.marthastewart.com/274777/paper-flowers

Remember not to apply paint too thickly, as this can make the squishy less soft.

Your homemade squishes can be used for: Pretend play, Birthday party favors, Classroom rewards, Stress relief, Handmade gifts, Desk decorations, Travel toys and for Craft fairs.

To keep your  squishy longer and  looking its best ensure you Allow paint to dry completely. Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid pulling or stretching it. Keep it away from sharp objects. Spray with a clear craft sealant if desired.

If  you plan to engage the kids while making these  squishes endeavor to Use non-toxic paints whenever possible. Adult supervision is recommended when using scissors or craft knives. Note that homemade squishes are not suitable for babies or children who may put small objects in their mouths. Do not use homemade squishes as chew toys.

Acrylic paint works well and is quiet good, but fabric paint is often more flexible and less likely to crack.

Applying too many thick coats of paint can reduce its softness. Use thin layers and allow each coat to dry completely is the  way to go.

With gentle use and proper care, a DIY squishy can last for several months or longer.

Making your own squishy is a fun, budget-friendly craft that encourages creativity and hands-on learning. Whether you choose a sponge, memory foam, or a stuffed sock, you can create unique designs that reflect your personality. Gather your supplies, experiment with colors and shapes, and enjoy crafting a soft, squeezable toy that’s perfect for play or gifting.