Craft google eyes (also called wiggly eyes or googly eyes) are small plastic or wooden hemispheres with a printed iris and pupil that are attached to crafts, toys, and art projects to give them a playful, watchful look. You can craft your own google eyes at home using simple materials like paper, glue, and clear domes, or you can buy them in bulk from craft stores and online retailers. This article covers the history of these ubiquitous craft supplies, how they are manufactured, how to choose the right ones for your project, common problems and fixes, cost considerations, and safety guidelines for children and pets.
Background: Where Did Google Eyes Come From?
The exact origin of the googly eye is not well documented, but the design dates back to the early 20th century. The classic googly eye consists of a clear plastic dome (the “eye” itself) with a black pupil and colored iris printed on a flat backing. The dome magnifies the printed artwork, giving it a three-dimensional, animated look. The name “googly” likely derives from the way the eyes seem to move or “google” around when the object is tilted. They became a staple of children’s crafts in the mid-1900s, and today they are produced in vast quantities, with sizes ranging from tiny 3mm dots to large 60mm or larger eyes for costumes and decorations.
How Google Eyes Are Made
Most commercial google eyes are made from polystyrene or PVC plastic. The process begins with a sheet of plastic that is printed with the iris and pupil designs, then vacuum-formed or injection-molded into a dome shape. The flat backing is often a separate piece of paper or plastic that holds the printed image. The two parts are glued together, and the excess is trimmed. Some higher-quality eyes use a clear acrylic dome with a painted or printed iris that is inserted inside, giving a more realistic look. Homemade versions can be made by drawing or printing an iris and pupil on paper, cutting it out, and covering it with a clear resin or glass cabochon (a flat-backed glass or plastic dome).
How to Choose the Right Google Eyes
When selecting google eyes for a project, consider the following factors:
- Size: Match the eye size to the scale of your project. For small dolls or puppets, 6–10mm eyes work well; for larger plush toys or decorations, 20–30mm or larger is better.
- Adhesive backing: Some eyes come with a self-adhesive peel-and-stick backing, which is convenient for paper and light fabrics. Others require glue (hot glue, craft glue, or epoxy) for a stronger bond.
- Material: Plastic eyes are lightweight and inexpensive; wooden eyes (often used for teddy bears) are more durable and have a natural look. Wooden eyes are typically painted and have a flat back.
- Safety: For children under 3 years old, avoid small eyes that can be a choking hazard. Look for eyes that are securely attached and cannot be easily pulled off.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
One common issue is that google eyes fall off, especially on fabric or curved surfaces. To fix this, use a stronger adhesive like E6000 or a hot glue gun (with adult supervision). Another problem is that the printed iris can fade or scratch. To protect them, apply a clear sealant or use eyes that have a protective coating. If the eyes look flat or lifeless, you can add a small white highlight with a paint pen to give them a shiny, wet look. For a more natural appearance, some crafters use “animal eyes” that have a slit pupil or a colored sclera (the white part of the eye).
Cost Considerations and Buying in Bulk
Google eyes are inexpensive. A small bag of 100 mixed-size eyes (6–12mm) typically costs between $2 and $5 at craft stores. Bulk packs of 500 to 1,000 eyes can be purchased online for around $10–$20, making them a cost-effective choice for classrooms or large projects. Specialty eyes, such as those with realistic irises or glow-in-the-dark features, cost more—often $5–$10 for a pack of 10–20. If you are making a large number of crafts, buying in bulk is the most economical option.
Safety and Choking Hazards
Google eyes are a choking hazard for young children and pets. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States has regulations for toys intended for children under 3, which require that small parts not be able to fit into a test cylinder. If you are crafting with or for a toddler, use larger eyes (at least 1.25 inches in diameter) or embroidered eyes instead. Always supervise children when using hot glue or small parts. For pets, especially dogs that chew, google eyes can be dangerous if ingested. If you are making a toy for a pet, consider sewing on felt or fabric eyes instead.
Alternatives to Store-Bought Google Eyes
If you prefer not to use plastic, you can make your own google eyes from natural materials. For example, you can use small wooden beads, painted with a white base and black pupil. Buttons with a shank can also be used, but they are not as dome-shaped. For a fully homemade version, you can cut circles from white felt and sew on a black button in the center. Another option is to use paper circles with a clear adhesive dome (like a “safety eye” for crafts). For a more realistic look, you can print a custom iris design on paper and cover it with a clear resin dome, which you can buy in craft stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are google eyes safe for babies?
No, small google eyes are not safe for babies or toddlers because they can be a choking hazard. If you are making a toy for a baby, use embroidered eyes or sew on large, securely attached buttons (at least 1.25 inches in diameter) that cannot be pulled off. Always follow the CPSC guidelines for toys for children under 3.
Can you iron on google eyes?
No, google eyes are not designed to be ironed on. The plastic will melt or warp under heat. Instead, use fabric glue or sew them on. If you need iron-on eyes, you can buy heat-transfer eyes that are made for fabric, but they are not the same as traditional google eyes.
How do you remove google eyes from a surface?
If the eyes are attached with a removable adhesive, you can gently peel them off. For hot glue or strong craft glue, you can use a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the glue, then carefully pry the eye off with a flat tool. Be careful not to damage the surface. For fabric, you can use a seam ripper to cut the threads if they are sewn on.
What is the difference between googly eyes and wiggly eyes?
There is no difference; “googly eyes” and “wiggly eyes” are interchangeable names for the same product. Some regions or brands use one term over the other. The name “googly” is more common in the US, while “wiggly” is often used in the UK and Australia.
Can you make google eyes with a 3D printer?
Yes, you can 3D print your own google eyes. You would need to design a dome shape and print it in clear resin or PLA, then print or paint the iris and pupil. However, 3D-printed eyes may not be as clear or smooth as commercial ones, and they may require sanding and polishing. For most crafters, buying commercial eyes is easier and cheaper.
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