Diaper cakes make the cutest gifts when it comes to baby showers. While it might seem complicated, this little diaper cake looks like candy in just a few minutes! I love how cute it looks and what a fun centerpiece this would make at a baby shower. Any easy craft like this is always a hit in my book, and since it doubles as a gift, it's sure to be a favorite to new parents. It is so easy and it is such a fun gift idea I am sure you will be making these for every upcoming baby shower you attend!

Candy Wrapper Diaper Cake

There are so many ways to make a diaper cake, and I have shared some favorites before. Things like my royal castle diaper cake or the Minnie Mouse diaper cake wreath are both huge hits at baby showers. Since there are so many designs that can be done I wanted to share another with you that looks like a piece of candy! If you are just starting out and want to make one of the easiest diaper cake creations, this is the one to try!

It is just as cute as the ornate ones, but surprisingly simple. The new parents are going to love the creativity and can even use it as a nursery decoration. Of course, they can always take it apart and use the diapers and presents inside.

What Can I Use Instead of Tissue Paper for the Wrapper?

Tissue paper is one of the easiest ways to wrap around the diaper cake because it comes in large sheets and is so inexpensive. If you want to use something different for this diaper cake, there are some great ideas listed below that I like for this project.

Traditional wrapping paper in baby shower theme colors or patterns.
A large receiving blanket or baby afghan can be placed underneath the diapers to wrap around the whole piece.
Large wide crafting ribbon can be wrapped around the outside to create a wrapper.
Colored cellophane gives a more traditional candy wrapper look.

What Presents Go Inside a Diaper Cake?

Besides the diapers, you can also include things like small stuffed animals, small toys, or small baby products. You can also add things like teething rings, socks, and even onesies. Some moms also appreciate those little items that aren't used often but are nice to have on hand. I like including teething tablets, gas drops, fever reducers, and even diaper cream.

A mixture of small items comes in handy for filling in the middle of the diaper alongside the teddy bear but also gives a bit extra for the gift. When you are on a budget but want to give a special gift, this is a great way to do that. The little touches can also include things like gifts for mom and dad. A small gift card, some pampering items like lotions or bubble bath, or even just a paper coupon for a free night of babysitting can all be great for adding to the diaper cake.

What Can I Use for The Base?

I wrapped a piece of cardboard in wrapping paper. That's a great choice that is easy to use and won't hurt to throw away after the gift is taken apart. You can also use a large platter or plastic plate if you want to gift them something functional for after the diapers are taken out and used.

If you are wrapping with paper on the bottom or even with a blanket on the bottom, you might want to just use the plate or cardboard as a template and then just line the items up inside the blanket without the base.

Supplies Needed

How to Make a Diaper Cake Look Like Candy

Cut a piece of cardboard into a 12" wide circle and cover with paper as desired.

Roll diapers and secure each with a rubber band.

You will want 20-25 depending upon the size diapers. Set these aside.

On the covered circle of cardboard, add a spiral of double-sided tape leaving an opening in the middle.

Place the bear into the center of the base.

Starting by the bear, stack the diapers on end securing them with the tape in a circle around the bear until the entire base is covered.

Tuck any additional items in the middle by the bear if wanted.

Measure and cut tissue paper to twice the width and size of the base.

Fold the tissue paper over itself until only 3-4" wide, then trim both ends with a scallop.

Unfold the tissue paper and place the base with diapers on top in the middle of the paper.

Pull the edges up over the sides and gently gather on each side to create a wrapper look.

Secure each side with rubber bands and fluff out the ends slightly.

Use the wide ribbon to make a large bow for each side.

Cut and tie the thin ribbon into a second bow for each side.

Tie or glue these bows together and then attach one on each side with a bit of glue.

Add a bit of glue around the bottom edge of the diaper cake and then secure burlap ribbon (or any ribbon preferred), all around the base of the diaper cake.

Add any additional decorations as desired and use it as a gift or baby shower decoration.

More Baby Shower Gift Ideas

If you have friends and family expecting a new baby soon, or you are planning an upcoming baby shower, then you'll need more ideas. Below are some of my favorite ideas to use for a gift at your next baby shower event!

Crafting Tip

When working with diapers you want to make sure what you use doesn't rip, puncture, or tear the diapers when attaching to the base or each other. I use rubber bands to wrap around the diapers to keep them rolled, and then double-sided tape to secure to other items. You may be concerned about tape being an issue, but I use a special removable double-sided tape that won't damage the diapers but will hold them into place.

Yield: 1

DIY Candy Diaper Cake

Follow an easy tutorial to make your own diaper cake that looks just like a piece of candy! A perfect addition to any baby shower!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Difficulty Easy

Estimated Cost $10

Materials

Tools

Instructions

Cut a piece of cardboard into a 12" wide circle and cover with paper as desired.
Roll diapers and secure each with a rubber band. You will want 20-25 depending upon the size diapers. Set these aside.
On the covered circle of cardboard, add a spiral of double sided tape leaving an opening in the middle.
Place the bear into the center of the base.
Starting by the bear, stack the diapers on end securing them with the tape in a circle around the bear until the entire base is covered.
Tuck any additional items in the middle by the bear if wanted.
Measure and cut tissue paper to twice the width and size of the base.
Fold the tissue paper over itself until only 3-4" wide, then trim both ends with a scallop.
Unfold the tissue paper and place the base with diapers on top in the middle of the paper.
Pull the edges up over the sides and gently gather on each side to create a wrapper look.
Secure each side with rubber bands and fluff out the ends slightly.
Use the wide ribbon to make a large bow for each side.
Cut and tie the thin ribbon into a second bow for each side.
Tie or glue these bows together and then attach one on each side with a bit of glue.
Add a bit of glue around the bottom edge of the diaper cake and then secure burlap ribbon (or any ribbon preferred), all around the base of the diaper cake.