Yesterday and today we worked on paper mache projects. My son really wanted a knight helmet and we decided this would be the best medium. I think it turned out pretty good. Take a look and I've added the how too if you want to have a little fun!
Even the toddlers, preschoolers and teenagers will have fun with this project!
Here's the How too:
First grab a stack of newspaper and a bowl. Tear or cut the paper into 1-2 inch squares and strips.
First grab a stack of newspaper and a bowl. Tear or cut the paper into 1-2 inch squares and strips.
The more/bigger projects you are doing... Obviously requires more paper.
Have fun!
We practiced "Row Row Row Your Boat" while doing this.
Have fun!
We practiced "Row Row Row Your Boat" while doing this.
Second:
Make glue.
1 part flour
2 parts water
Mix and prepare to get messy!!
Make glue.
1 part flour
2 parts water
Mix and prepare to get messy!!
For helmets, baskets and pinatas balloons work great as forms.
Blow up the balloon to a little larger than the head. At least a half inch to inch larger in circumference is necessary.
Blow up the balloon to a little larger than the head. At least a half inch to inch larger in circumference is necessary.
This next step may be best done outside if weather permits. If inside, especially with preschoolers, use table/floor clothes and old shirts.
Begin smearing glue on the balloon. Then spread the paper strips on the glue.
You will need 3-4 layers of glue and paper. Start and end with glue.
For the final layer smear glue over the entire project.
Messy kids LOVE this!
Begin smearing glue on the balloon. Then spread the paper strips on the glue.
You will need 3-4 layers of glue and paper. Start and end with glue.
For the final layer smear glue over the entire project.
Messy kids LOVE this!
Hang them out to dry. (Outdoors several hours or indoors overnight)
When the forms are completely dry, pop the balloons.
Cut and the form to the desired shape. For a helmet it does help to have a second balloon to use as face shield parts. Ours was a little small and we had to put more pieces together. If you have a large enough piece you can put it together with less steps.
Cut and the form to the desired shape. For a helmet it does help to have a second balloon to use as face shield parts. Ours was a little small and we had to put more pieces together. If you have a large enough piece you can put it together with less steps.
Cason had the idea to use the outside rims of a Styrofoam plate for the top. We applied this with duct tape to save time- but you could paper mache again and let it dry.
We used brass brads to attach the face piece so it would be movable.
We used brass brads to attach the face piece so it would be movable.
PAINT! (We used acrylic.)
More messy fun!
We practice "'Do' a deer" while painting.
More messy fun!
We practice "'Do' a deer" while painting.
The finished project.
Way to go! Have fun with your new helmet!
Way to go! Have fun with your new helmet!
Bethany wanted to make a basket.
My two year old is independent. She made her own helmet.
My other son made a pinata, but decided to be a pirate instead of a knight.