When my son turned one, I decided to do “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” theme. We just LOVE this book and I thought what a great idea for a first birthday.
I was pretty impressed with some of the stuff I came up with and found on Pinterest. I usually just go to the party store and buy supplies, but this time I did it ALL. It took me a couple weeks and several trips to the craft store but, I did it.
Caterpillar Cupcake Display Table
My main inspiration for this table were the caterpillar cupcakes I made. I wanted the table to be my focal point of the party so I could decorate around it.
Luckily, I had a bit of help from husband getting this table just right. He totally help me set this table up. If you like the result, you can get some tips below:
- Cupcakes: For the cupcakes, I used icing in a can. It was simple and fast (better than me frosting 22 cupcakes with a knife).
- Banner: I loved the idea of using paper plates as the Birthday banner. It made a perfect caterpillar and was so inexpensive. The letters were cutouts from Michaels.
- Butterfly Cake Topper: On a trip to Michaels, I found wooden butterflies. I used craft paint and made this beautiful butterfly banner for the smash cake.
- Pom Pom Caterpillar: I used very large pom pom balls for my caterpillar. Hot glue the pom poms together and add puffy paint for the face. Finish it off with pipe cleaners for the antennas.
- Wooden ONE: I made the ONE look like The…Hungry Caterpillar. I picked up some wooden letters. Painted them and glued some pipe cleaners on. So easy and fast!!
Caterpillar Food
I really wanted to re-create all the food from the book. I was able to get most of it done and add some extra elements myself.
I hope you get some great inspiration for your party:
- Labels: I found these great and free labels on Polkadots and Puppies. She really did a great job with her son’s birthday and gave me a lot of inspiration for my party.
- Gumball Topper: For this caterpillar, I used my round scrapbook punch to make the body and head. Then, cut out the antennas and the legs. I used puffy paint to make the eyes and nose and attached them to a popsicle stick.
Craft Table
Since I love kid crafts, I had to make a craft table for the party. The kids always seem to enjoy a little craft time.
I thought coloring sheets and finger print caterpillars would be a perfect idea. You’ll find descriptions and links below:
- Coloring Sheets: I was browsing the Eric Carle website and found these free coloring sheets for the kids!! I printed off and dozen and scattered them on the table.
- Finger Print Caterpillars: I had the older kids make Hungry Caterpillars using their finger prints. I did this caterpillar craft with my older son a couple days before, which turned out great!
Party Favors
I really wanted to get creative with my party favors and make everything myself (crazy I know). With a little patience, I had it done in no time!
Here’s a breakdown of some of the crafts I made for the party favors:
- Caterpillar Sticks: I dipped large pretzels into green chocolate and added M&M’s for the body and head. I let dry in the fridge for 20 minutes. Added my wrappers and voila little yummy caterpillars!!
- Mini Caterpillar: This pom pom caterpillar is just like the big one (only smaller).
- Gummy Worms: For these tasty treats, I picked up little bags in the baking section. I added gummy worms to the bags and put a “1” sticker on the front. Easy as that!
My Birthday Boy!
My little guy really enjoyed his “…Hungry Caterpillar” birthday party!!
Look at that smile. You KNOW he had a good time for his birthday!
Everyone had a great time! I think everything turned out perfect and it will be a day to remember. These kids grow up so fast.
Love, Courtney
