If you’re planning a lesson or activity for Cinco de Mayo, this simple Mexican Flag craft is an excellent hands-on project for children. With minimal supplies and a printable template, this activity is both educational and easy to complete, making it ideal for classrooms, homeschool settings, or cultural celebrations.
This craft project results in a miniature version of the Mexican flag, measuring approximately 4.5″ by 3″ (not including the flagpole). It’s a straightforward way to engage children in learning about the history and symbolism behind the flag while also practicing fine motor skills such as cutting and gluing.
Materials Needed
- Mexican Flag template (prints two flags per page)
- Red and green paper (3″ squares each)
- Popsicle stick
- Glue stick or craft glue
- Scissors
- Ruler (optional, for measuring paper squares)
Background on the Mexican Flag
The design of the Mexican flag features three vertical stripes in green, white, and red. These colors represent the national army during Mexico’s War of Independence. At the center of the white stripe is the national coat of arms—an eagle holding a serpent in its beak, perched on a cactus. This image is rooted in Aztec mythology and symbolizes the founding of Mexico City.
Interestingly, the coat of arms appears only on the front of the flag. In 1984, a debate on how to depict the emblem led to the decision not to mirror it on the reverse side. This offers an opportunity to explore the history and evolution of the Mexican Flag as part of your lesson.
Instructions
Print the Template:
Begin by printing the Mexican Flag template on standard white printer paper. Each page will yield two flag templates
Prepare the Colored Panels:
Cut out one 3″ square each of red and green paper. Lightweight printer paper is recommended, but construction paper can be used if necessary (just be aware it may be slightly harder to fold and glue).
Cut and Fold the Template:
Carefully cut out the flag design from the printout. Fold along the indicated line so that it forms a front and back.
Attach the Popsicle Stick:
Place the popsicle stick inside the fold, inserting about 1″ of the stick. Use glue to secure it in place. Apply glue between the front and back panels of the flag to keep them sealed together.
Attach the Colored Panels:
Fold the green paper square in half vertically. Align it with the left (flagpole side) of the flag and glue one half to the front and the other to the back.
Repeat the process with the red paper on the right edge of the front of the flag. This completes the traditional green-white-red color scheme of the Mexican flag.
This craft is not only a creative project but also a meaningful cultural activity. It can help spark conversations about Mexican history, symbolism, and national identity—making it a valuable addition to any Cinco de Mayo celebration or history lesson.
