This simple and creative honeycomb craft uses a mix of recycled cardboard tubes and flower-shaped macaroni pasta to create a beautiful piece of art for World Bee Day on May 20th.
It is an easy-to-prepare, budget-friendly activity that provides a tactile and engaging experience for seniors. This project is perfect for group settings as it requires no prior crafting experience and results in a vibrant, textured display.
What You Need
- Assorted empty cardboard tubes: Collect a mix of toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, and cling wrap rolls for varied sizes and thicknesses.
- Dried flower macaroni pasta: The flower-shaped pasta creates a beautiful floral texture when painted yellow and glued between the rings.
- Yellow acrylic paint: Golden yellow works best.
- Paintbrush or sponge: Flat sponges are often easier for residents to grip.
- White craft glue: Standard PVA or Elmer’s glue.
- Scissors: For staff to pre-cut the tubes into rings.
- Sturdy cardboard base: An old cereal box or thick card, painted or covered in patterned paper.
- Small bee decorations: Printable paper bee cutouts or stickers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut the Assorted Tubes
To create the organic, varied look of a real honeycomb, cut your assorted cardboard tubes into rings of slightly different heights (ranging from ½ inch to 1.5 inches). You will need approximately 15–20 rings of varying diameters.
Staff Tip: Pre-cut the rings before the session to save time and make the activity easier for residents.
2. Paint the Rings and Pasta
Paint each cardboard ring with yellow acrylic paint, covering both the inside and outside. At the same time, paint a handful of the dried flower macaroni pasta yellow. Set everything aside to dry completely (this usually takes 20–30
minutes).
Tip: Pour paint onto a flat plate and dip the rings and pasta directly. It is faster and less messy than using a brush.
3. Glue the Honeycomb Together
Once dry, apply glue to the sides of each cardboard ring and press them together in an irregular, organic cluster. Build the structure on your decorated cardboard base. Mix the different sizes and heights of rings to give the honeycomb depth and character. Hold each ring in place for a few seconds while the glue sets.
4. Add Flower Macaroni and Bees
When the main structure is dry, it is time to decorate. Glue the yellow-painted flower macaroni pasta onto the structure — the flower shapes tuck perfectly into the gaps between the cardboard rings, adding a beautiful floral
honeycomb texture. Finally, glue your small paper bee cutouts around the rings and flower macaroni.
The Finished Result
This craft offers gentle fine motor engagement through painting and gluing. It also serves as a great conversation starter for residents to share memories of gardens, flowers, and springtime.
Discover More Activities for Seniors
- World Bee Day Activity Book for Seniors in Aged Care – Download our themed activity book filled with fun facts, word searches, and coloring pages designed specifically for aged care.
- World Bee Day in Aged Care – 20th May – Explore more ways to celebrate, including honey tasting ideas, documentary suggestions, and tips for hosting a bee-themed event.
