How to Make a Corinthian War Helmet
Corinthians, inhabitants of the ancient city of Corinth, fell under Greek rule. The city itself was destroyed by an earthquake in the 1800s. The Greek warrior was clad in leather or metal breastplate with a leather skirt to protect the thighs. A shield, spear and sword were used in combat while a metal helmet protected the head from swords, spears and arrows. You can make your own Corinthian helmet from items you have around your home.
Things You'll Need
- 3 sheets of poster board
- 3 large round balloons
- Masking tape
- Newspaper
- Scissors
- 2 cups flour
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp. salt
- Large mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Sandpaper
- Silver or gold spray paint
Instructions
-
-
1
Cut a 2-inch strip from the poster board that will fit around your head. Wrap it around your head, just above your ears and secure with the masking tape. Cut off any excess poster board.
-
2
Download a template for a face and nose plate. The faceplate hangs down over the cheeks to protect the face. The noseplate is a thin piece which hangs down over the nose from the helmet brim, in the middle of the forehead. If you download templates for the face and nose plates from the Internet, print them on to the poster board. If you wish to create your own templates, practice with the newspaper, cutting out different shapes and holding them up to your head until you find one that suits you. Trace the template out on to the poster board.
-
-
3
Cut your face and nose plates out of the poster board. Blow up the balloon until it is the same size as your head. Press the balloon into the headband.
-
4
Mix the paper mache. Combine the flour, salt and water and mix well. Cut newspaper strips that are 2 inches wide. Dip the strips into the flour mixture and drape them over the balloon. Overlap the strips and cover the helmet top.
-
5
Blow up the other balloons until they are the same size as the first. Cover the faceplates with paper mache strips and, while they are still damp, drape them vertically over the balloons. This will shape the faceplates to fit your face. Leave all the helmet pieces to dry overnight.
-
6
Attach the faceplates to the headband with masking tape. Cover the entire helmet (including faceplates) with paper mache and leave to dry overnight.
-
7
Tape the nose plate to the headband and cover the whole helmet, including faceplates and nose plate, with a third layer of paper mache. Repeat the process for the fourth and final layer. Test the helmet for dryness. You will know you can proceed when a fingernail gently pressed into the paper mache leaves no indentation.
-
8
Gently sand the outside of the helmet to create a smooth surface. Dust off the helmet and paint with the spray paint.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Balance the balloons in the tops of sneakers while you are waiting for the paper mache to dry.
Make a chin strap by cutting strips of leather from an old belt. Staple the chinstrap to the inside of the helmet.
Add feathered plumes to your helmet if you want some extra decoration.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
