Complete stories. No cliffhangers.

The Daily Stories

Review Video

DIY Squishy Fun: Make Stress Balls Without Foam!

Discover how to make super satisfying squishy toys at home using just tissue paper and food wrap! No foam needed for this ultimate stress-relief DIY.

By The Editors· August 12, 2026· Complete storyOriginal fiction
DIY Squishy Fun: Make Stress Balls Without Foam! —  on ReelDrop
DIY Squishy Fun: Make Stress Balls Without Foam! — on ReelDrop

Remember that viral clip showing off an incredible DIY squishy hack? The one where you don't need any special foam? Well, we’re here to tell you it’s not only real, but it’s also one of the most satisfying and stress-relieving crafts you can do right now. Forget expensive kits or hard-to-find materials – your next favorite fidget toy is probably already in your house!

Squishy toys have taken the world by storm, and for good reason. Their soft, squeezable texture is perfect for melting away stress, keeping fidgety hands busy, or just enjoying a moment of tactile comfort. But traditionally, making your own squishies meant hunting down specific foam types or pre-made bases. Not anymore!

This ingenious method uses two super common household items: tissue paper and food wrap. Seriously, that’s it! It’s budget-friendly, incredibly easy, and the best part? The process of making it is almost as relaxing as playing with the finished product. Get ready to create your own adorable, squeezable companions.

[[AD]]

Your DIY Squishy Toolkit

Before we dive in, gather these simple supplies. You likely have them all on hand, which makes this project even better!

Here's what you'll need:

• A stack of soft tissue paper (toilet paper or paper towels work too!) • Food wrap (like Saran Wrap or cling film) • Scissors • Tape (clear tape works best) • Permanent markers (for decorating)

Let's Get Squishy! Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Shred Your Stress Away

This is where the magic begins. Take your tissue paper and start tearing it into small, irregular pieces. Don't think too much about it – just rip and tear! This step is surprisingly therapeutic. The more paper you shred, and the smaller the pieces, the smoother and more satisfying your squishy will feel.

Keep tearing until you have a sizable pile. Think about how big you want your final squishy to be; you'll need a good amount of paper to make it firm enough to squish. Once you have a mountain of paper fluff, gently gather it into a loose ball shape.

[[AD]]

Step 2: Wrap It Up Tight

Now, unroll a generous amount of food wrap. Place your loosely balled-up tissue paper in the center. Carefully, but firmly, start wrapping the tissue paper, compacting it into a tight sphere or whatever shape you desire (a cute seal, maybe?). The tighter you wrap, the denser your squishy will be.

Once wrapped, cut off the excess food wrap and use a small piece of tape to secure the seam. Don’t worry too much about perfection here; we’re adding another layer later.

Step 3: Unleash Your Inner Artist

This is your chance to bring your squishy to life! Using your permanent markers, draw adorable faces or fun patterns onto your wrapped paper ball. In the original clip, we saw some super cute seals and other little critters like "Tieu That" and "Tieu Hang Hang" – get inspired by them, or invent your own unique character.

Think big eyes, rosy cheeks, or even tiny limbs if you’re feeling ambitious. Permanent markers ensure the design won't smudge when you add the final layer of wrap.

[[AD]]

Step 4: The Final Seal (Pun Intended!)

Unroll another section of food wrap, even more generously this time. Place your decorated squishy in the middle and wrap it again, making sure to cover your design completely and securely. This second layer is crucial for durability and gives your squishy that satisfying, slightly springy, smooth exterior.

Wrap it tightly, smooth out any wrinkles, and trim any excess. Secure the final seam with tape once more. You want it to be as seamless and airtight as possible – well, almost airtight!

Step 5: Breathe Easy

Almost done! Grab a small pin or a sharp pencil. Carefully poke a few tiny holes into your squishy. Why? These air holes are essential! They allow the air inside to escape slowly when you squeeze, and then gradually re-enter, giving you that delightful, slow-rising squish characteristic that we all love.

Don't overdo it with the holes; 5-10 small, evenly spaced punctures should do the trick. Now, give it a test squeeze! Feel that satisfying give? That’s your very own, foam-free squishy masterpiece.

[[AD]]

Why This DIY Wins

This tissue paper and food wrap hack isn't just a clever workaround; it's a fantastic craft in its own right. It's incredibly accessible, using items you likely already have, making it perfect for an impromptu crafting session.

The entire process, from tearing the paper to finally squishing your creation, is a wonderful way to de-stress. It engages your senses and gives you a tangible, adorable result that helps manage anxiety or simply provides a fun sensory outlet.

[[VIDEO]]

Plus, the creative freedom is endless! You can make all sorts of shapes and decorate them however you like, making each squishy truly unique. It’s a craft that encourages personalization and imaginative play.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this easy, fun, and super satisfying DIY squishy hack a try. It’s a game-changer for homemade stress relief!

Did you make your own? We want to see them! Share your creations with ReelDrop on social media and tag us. We can’t wait to admire your squishy masterpieces!

[[AD]]

Next time, we’re diving into another surprising DIY hack that will turn everyday items into something extraordinary. Stay tuned!

More from Review Video

All stories in Review Video →

This story is original fiction. Names, characters and details are invented, and nothing here is legal, medical or financial advice. Share it if it reminded you of someone.

ShareXFacebookWhatsApp