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How To Create Paper Mache Pumpkins,Or Bats!
Materials

  • Paper Mache Paste
  • Balloons (any size)
  • Newspaper
  • String
  • Paint
  • Construction paper
  • Googly eyes

General Instructions

  • Make Paper Mache Paste.
  • Cut newspaper or newsprint into 2" wide strips.
  • Blow up balloons (as many as you like) and tie off. Attach string to tied end of balloon.
  • Once paper mache paste is cool, dip individual strips of newsprint into paste. Apply strips to balloon one at a time. Repeat process until balloon is completely covered. The more layers the firmer your finished work will be.
  • Hang balloon by string in warm, dry area for at least 24 hours or until completely dry. Be sure to us a drip cloth to protect area.
  • **if you are making pumpkins - take a 1-2" piece of a paper towel or toilet paper roll. Hold on top of balloon and attach with newspaper strips to form stalk for pumpkin.
 
 
 
Bob-ity Bat

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Bumpkin Pumpkin

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Next day......you can make either......

Bob-ity Bat

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  • Gently insert sharp needle into base of balloon - you should hear a pop and balloon pull away from sides of hardened shell.
  • For stability - place shell in bowl. Paint half of the shell black. Allow to dry. Flip over and paint other half completely black. Allow to dry.
  • Cut out bat wins and ears from black construction paper. Be sure to cut area to form a flap to attach to shell. (see example). Size of wings and ears will depend on size of your balloon shell.
    earwing.gif - 2.6 K
    cut two wings and two ears similar to above example

  • Once bat body is dry, attach wings and ears with glue, rubber cement or tape. Attach googly eyes on face of bat or use construction paper to make eyes if googly eyes not available.
  • To hang your finished Bob-ity Bat, attach string to top (Bat's back) with tape. (hockey or electrical tape works well). You can also use black elastic to make your Bat bob!!
Bumpkin Pumpkin

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  • Gently insert sharp needle into base of balloon - you should hear a pop and balloon pull away from sides of hardened shell.
  • Gently push in bottom of shell to form a dent - or base for the pumpkin to sit. Do not force. If dent will not form, use a cardboard strip, about 1" wide, stapled into a circle as a base.
  • Paint body of pumpkin orange. Paint stalk green.
  • To decorate paint eyes, nose and mouth on pumpkin in desired "look". You can cut out green leaves from construction paper and use green floral wire to form vines.
  • You can also cut out eyes, nose and mouth using a sharp bladed knife(ADULTS). Then cut a circle in the back and shine a flashlight inside. Do NOT use a candle or flame. These pumpkins are paper and will immediately burn.
  • My personal favourite is to make small bats & pumkins,and let them dangle from the ceilings on a peice of string!