Project #29 Puppet

...this is a great project to create a special character for your puppet show

What you will need:
*plaster bandages (or paper mache)
*newspaper
*scissors, hot glue, masking tape
*fabric 20 x 20 in.
*wood dowel or stick 12 in. long
*thread spool or (toilet paper roll – cut a slit and tape so that it’s tapered)
*acrylic or tempera paint
*small soda bottle and bowl for water

step one:
..take the newspaper and crumple in a ball to create head of animal – attach with masking tape.  Add any other details like ears, snout etc.
step two:
..once you’ve created the general shape of the animal you will cover it with plaster bandages.  I find it’s easier to place the head and cone on a soda bottle so that you have both hands free. 
..when using the plaster bandages use lukewarm water and it’s important to smooth out the surface so that you don’t see the holes in the gauze.

Let this stand to dry – you can use a fan or hairdryer to speed up the process

step three:
..take paint and paint the entire surface with one colour – and then put in the details
step four:
..once the paint dries – take the fabric and cut a hole in the center.  Place the fabric around the neck of the cone and hot glue it tight around the neck.  Glue the dowel to one of the corners of the fabric.  If you like you
can choose to put a hand or food on the end of the dowel.

Make more characters and have a great puppet show.

Comments

[jan]

This is great - do you have a recipe for paper mache? We used to mix water and flour or something as a kid, and i'd love to try this?

[arounna]

hi,
I think the flour paste is the easiest
* one part flour
* one part water

Mix flour and water in a bowl until you get a smooth consistency.

you can also use wallpaper paste and sometimes I add water to white glue.

hope this info helps
best,
arounna