Two big claws up top and silly stalk-eye bumps – with this printable crab mask, kids scuttle sideways across the beach. Color it, cut it out, and add elastic. This free crab mask template is perfect for an under-the-sea party, preschool, and summer fun.
Why This Crab Is So Silly
The two big claws on top are the eye-catcher and make the crab instantly recognizable. Stalk-eye bumps make it look like the crab is curiously peeking at the world. Big, round shapes are easy for little kids to color. With red or orange, kids have a cheerful beach crab in no time.
Two claws on the upper left and right.
Fun bumps for the eyes.
Easy for little hands to color.
Part of our Under the Sea Party set.
✂️ Craft Instructions: Turn the Template into a Mask
🧰 What You Need
- Printer + heavier paper or cardstock (65–110 lb)
- Colored pencils, markers or watercolors
- Scissors (craft knife for the eye holes – adults only)
- Elastic cord (about 12–14 inches)
- Hole punch for the elastic holes
Print the template at actual size (100 %, not “fit to page”) on thick paper.
Color the mask any way you like – the big shapes are perfect for little hands.
Cut along the thick outer line.
An adult cuts out the eye holes with a craft knife or pointed scissors.
Punch holes at the two small circles, thread the elastic through and knot it – done!
⚠️ Safety: eye holes, craft knives and hot glue are grown-up jobs. Don’t run or play rough while wearing a mask that limits your view – and never put elastic around the neck.
📦 Included in These Craft Sets
This mask also comes as part of a bundle – one free PDF with a cover page, craft instructions and every mask in the set:
Play Ideas for Little Crabs
Scuttle around the room moving only sideways like a crab. Use clothespins as claws to pinch and collect paper fish. Hermit crabs swap into a new cardboard box shell. Then play Beach Wave, where the crabs hide under a towel whenever the wave rolls in.
Fun Facts About Crabs
Crabs have ten legs, and the front pair are their big claws. Most crabs walk sideways because of the way their legs bend. Their hard shell doesn't grow with them, so they molt and grow a new one from time to time. Hermit crabs, which are relatives of true crabs, live in empty snail shells and move house when they outgrow them. With their stalk eyes, crabs can see almost all the way around.
Color Ideas for Your Crab Mask
Beach red, sandy, or bright:
A red crab with white stalk eyes.
Orange with yellow dots.
Blue with red claw tips.
Colorful stripes on the shell.
Great Times for the Crab Mask
This silly crab is ready for:
Team up with the starfish, octopus, and jellyfish.
Perfect for sandboxes and splash pools.
Add a red shirt for a quick costume.
A fun warm-up for a trip to the ocean.
Crab Facts at a Glance
Snappy facts to share:
The front ones are claws.
How most crabs walk.
They grow a new shell.
They live in empty shells.
More Masks for Your Under-the-Sea Party
Starfish, jellyfish, and seal masks are ready too – see all our ocean animal masks.
🎭 More masks from this group:
Your Benefits at PureSketchy:
- A Real Craft Template: Face-size mask with eye holes and marks for elastic, a stick or glue tabs.
- Free to Print: Every mask and craft set as a PDF or image, no sign-up required.
- Print-Ready A4: Clean vector lines that print crisp on any home printer.
- Kid-Friendly Designs: Cheerful characters, nothing too scary, no brand logos – perfect for home, preschool and school.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What age is this mask suitable for?
The crab mask is made for ages 2 to 4. Kids color, and an adult cuts out the mask and eye holes.
Will the mask fit a child’s face?
Yes – printed at actual size (100 %) on A4 or US Letter, the mask is roughly the size of a child’s face. For adults, scale it up to 110–115 % or print on A3/Tabloid.
What paper works best?
We recommend heavier cardstock around 200 gsm (about 110 lb) so the big claws don't bend.
Is the download free?
Yes, all masks and coloring pages on PureSketchy are 100% free for personal use, preschools, and schools.
Is there a German version?
Yes! You can find the German version at Krabbe Maske.