An Automata Storm Inspired by The Tempest

Dive into the world of automata with our paper ship craft kits, available for purchase at my Etsy shop. Follow along with our craft video, or skip the kit: scroll to the bottom for a step-by-step guide to make from scratch. Let your creativity set sail!

Inspired by Two River Theater's 2025 production of A Little Shakespeare: The Tempest, this craft lets you sail through Shakespeare’s stormy seas. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring your rocking ship to life!

Materials Needed

Inside box (solid color paper)

Outside box (patterned paper)

Long straw

Two short straws

Two rotating washers

Two small washers

Cut out ships

Scissors (not included)

Glue or tape (not included)

Craft kits are available for purchase at my Etsy shop.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Your Inner Box

• • Use glue or tape to secure the folded tabs and create a sturdy box shape. This will form the inside structure of the base structure.
  • Some kits may need to cut a slit on the sides (see video) to fix an original design flaw.

Step 2: Think Outside Box

• • Use glue or tape to secure the folded tabs and create the outer box.

Step 3: Sea Legs

1. Use glue to attach the two short straws to the two smaller discs. Use the side with the cut out circle for guidance.
2. Insert both straws into the two holes, located at the top of the outer box, with the discs on the inside of box and the straws poking out the top.
3. Cut a piece of scrap paper measuring 3.75 x 2.5 inches; newer kits may include a pre-cut piece.
4. Attach the scrap paper to the bottom of the discs while they are still inside the box using glue.

Step 4: Making Waves

1. Insert the long straw into the designated hole on one side of the box, adding the two large discs before pushing it through to the other side.
2. Evenly space the two rotating discs apart and make sure they are not aligned.
3. Fasten each disc securely using tape or glue.

Step 5: Box It Up

1. Slide the inner box into the outer box and secure it with tape or glue.

Step 6: Ship Shape

1. Cut out both images of the ship. 
2. Align them back to back and trim any excess edges.
3. Glue one ship to one side of the paper straws.
4. Align the second picture behind the first and glue or tape them together.

Step 6: Rock Out

1. Move the long paper straw back and forth to set your ship sailing.

Congratulations! You have now completed your paper rocking ship. Display it proudly and let it transport you to Shakespeare's magical island.

Visit TwoRiverTheater.org to learn more about their awesome education programs!

Original Tutorial Video

A part of #SceneAtTwoRiver, Katie's Crafting Closet is a monthly series where I get to share crafting projects inspired by past productions at Two River Theater. Here is a family friendly craft inspired by the 2016 production of Shakespeare's Pericles.

Check out TRT's website for other staff member spotlights, artist features, workshops and more!

Katie's Crafting Closet at Two River Theater

A part of #SceneAtTwoRiver, Katie's Crafting Closet was a pandemic series where I got to share crafting projects inspired by past productions and events at Two River Theater. 

And be sure to check out my craft kits, paper decorations and digital downloads at  #TableSettingIsMyLife on Esty.