For centuries, black cats have prowled the edges of our stories and imaginations. In medieval Europe, they were feared as companions of witches, thought to carry spells or bad luck. Sailors, on the other hand, believed black cats brought fortune aboard ships, and in Japan, a black cat crossing your path is also seen as a sign of good luck. Across cultures, sleek, shadowy felines are cloaked in myth and mystery, evoking both curiosity and caution.

Why Black Cats Deserve a Day

Beyond the tales, black cats are just like any other kitty: playful, curious, and sometimes a bit mischievous. October 27th marks National Black Cat Day, a day that raises awareness to the low adoption rates for black cats.

At Shine, we love turning myth into learning — and black cats are a purr-fect muse for October fun. Halloween crafts featuring black cats offer a playful, imaginative way for kids to get into the spirit of the season.

Black Cat Craft Ideas for Kids

Try these simple black cat crafts this October:

Paper Plate Black Cats

Start by painting a paper plate black. Next, cut out a circle for the head, pointy ears, a tail, and whiskers from black construction paper. Alternately, you can make whiskers and tails out of pipe cleaners. Glue on googly eyes and a tiny pink pom pom nose for a finishing touch. Not only is this craft fun, but it also encourages spatial thinking and dexterity.

Image Source: CraftsByAmanda.com

Black Cat Luminaries

Cut a circle “moon” shape in the front of a paper bag. Glue yellow or orange tissue paper inside the bag to cover the opening. Next, cut out a black cat silhouette from construction paper and glue it in front of the moon. Add eyes, whiskers, and a nose if you’d like. Place a battery tea light inside and watch your cat glow! This craft helps kids practice cutting and layering while creating a cozy Halloween decoration.

Image: BarleyAndBirch.com

Black Cat Paper Craft

Paint a cardboard tube black and letting it dry. Next, cut out a cat head, tail, and ears from black construction paper. Glue the head to the top of the tube and the tail to the back. Use paint to add yellow eyes, a pink nose, white whiskers, and a mouth. Decorate with a tiny bow or sparkly paper collar for extra charm. This easy recycled craft helps kids build fine motor skills while sparking creativity.

Image: TheCraftTrain.com

Celebrate Creativity This Fall

National Black Cat Day is the perfect reminder that October can be full of imagination, play, and discovery. If you’d rather skip the supply runs and cleanup, stop by Shine in the Hamptons instead.

Shine’s art classes, workshops, drop-ins, and events give budding creators (ages 2–12) the chance to explore mixed media, seasonal themes, and hands-on projects—all while discovering the pure joy of making something their own.

Learn more about the Studio.