DIY Winter Magic: Craft the Perfect Paper Mâché Snowman Costume

For the Head:

• Punching Balloon (or large, sturdy balloon)

• Newspapers (shredded or cut into strips)

• Papier-Mâché Paste: Pre-made mix OR a thick paste of white school glue and water

• White Paint (Poster paint or acrylic recommended)

• Paint Brushes

For Details & Assembly:

• Felt: Black (eyes/mouth), Orange (carrot nose)

• Hot Glue Gun and Glue Sticks

• Permanent Markers (for details)

• Scissors or Box Cutter (Adult supervision required!)

Optional Enhancements:

• Glitter (to add sparkle to the paint)

• Yarn (for "hair")

• A Classic Top Hat

The most time-intensive part of this project is the papier-mâché, due to the required drying time.

• Prepare the Paste: If not using a pre-made mix, combine white school glue and water in a shallow tray until you have a thick, smooth paste.
  
  

• Apply Layers: Cut your newspaper into manageable strips. Dip the strips into the paste, scraping off any excess. Drape the paste-soaked strips over the inflated balloon.
  
  Overlap each strip and completely cover the balloon. The more layers you add, the sturdier your final head will be.
  
  

• Dry Completely: This is crucial! Place the covered balloon in a warm, dry area. Allow it to dry for 1 to 2 full days, or until the paper is hard and dry to the touch.

Once the papier-mâché is fully cured, you can transform it into a wearable head.

• Remove the Balloon: Pop the balloon inside, leaving a hollow paper shell.
  
  

• Cut the Base: Using scissors or a box cutter, cut a large opening at the bottom of the shell. This opening must be wide enough to comfortably fit over the wearer's head and rest on their shoulders.
  
  

• Cut the Eye Holes: Measure the position for the eyes. Mark the spots and carefully cut two holes large enough for the wearer to see clearly.
  
  

• Paint It White: Paint the entire exterior of the head with white paint. For a vibrant, solid finish, you may need to apply two coats. If desired, mix in some glitter for a shimmering effect!
  
  

• Dry: Allow the paint to dry fully before moving on.

Bring your snowman to life with classic features!

• The Carrot Nose: Cut an elongated cone shape from the orange felt. Hot-glue it firmly onto the center of the face.
  
  

• Eyes and Mouth: Cut circles or ovals from the black felt for the eyes. You can also use felt to create a traditional coal-mouth or a friendly smile. Use a hot glue gun to secure all felt pieces around the eye holes.
  
  

• Final Touches (Optional): Hot-glue yarn "hair" around the base opening, or securely attach a top hat to the crown of the head.

The body is the easiest part!

• The Base: Dress the wearer in a white sweatshirt (or long-sleeve shirt) and white pants.
  
  

• Buttons: Cut large black circles from felt and hot-glue them down the front of the white shirt to represent coal buttons.
  
  

• Accessories: Add a warm scarf and optionally, a colorful vest to complete the look!