Discovering a Vintage Paper Craft: A Rabbit Family Adventure

 

Check out this delightful DIY project where you can create your very own paper Spring garden scene! This paper craft is inspired by a vintage design from an April, 1914 issue of McCall’s magazine. I originally came across this on another crafting blog: Woo! Jr. Kids Activities. 

The original images were low resolution and appeared quite small when printed. So, in an effort to improve the design, I have enhanced the details and increased their size (now available in my Etsy store). Additionally, I have released a new version featuring a redesigned aesthetic, more spring animals, and enriched scenic landscapes, making for even more Spring surprises.

Follow along with our tutorial video and step-by-step instructions to bring this scene to life.

Materials Needed

• Scissors
• Glue or tape
• Printable templates for the paper garden scene (links provided below)
• Original design from the April 1914 issue of McCall’s magazine
• Optional: Enhanced version where I refined the images and increased their size

• Optional: Updated design featuring new additions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Build the Rabbit Hutch

Cut Out the Rabbit Hutch: Cut out the rabbit hutch from the template. Optional: cut out the space marked ‘doorway’.

Bend Along Dotted Lines: Gently fold the cut-out along the dotted lines to create crisp edges.

Step 2: Assemble the Hutch

Adhere Strip A1: Use glue or tape to attach strip A1 to the underside of section B2.

Repeat for A2: Similarly, adhere strip A2 under section C2.

Step 3: Construct the Roof

Cut Out the Roof: Cut out the roof piece and fold it along the dotted lines.

Attach Roof Strips: Connect strip B1 to section B2 and strip C1 to section C2 to form the roof.

Step 4: Add the Door

Cut and Attach the Bar: Cut out the piece labeled ‘bar’ and adhere its ends to each side of the doorway on section B2. Pro Tip: use a dab of glue on the edges to leave space for sliding door.

Install the Sliding Door: Cut out the sliding door and slide it beneath the bar for a functioning door.

Step 5: Create the Spring Animals

Cut Out the Animals: Cut out each animal from the template. In the updated version, I've included some blue sky background incase you did not want to cut all the detailed edges. 

Fold and Secure: Fold each animal at the top where the images meet. Glue together once aligned. Then fold up the green tabs to create a base. 

DONE! Great work - your crafting garden is ready to bloom.

Share Your Creation

We’d love to see your beautiful work! Share your completed project with us in the comments below or on social media @TableSettingIsMyLife. 

For more totally family friendly crafts and digital downloads, check out our previous Crafts with Katie posts.