How to Make a Graffiti Skull

Apply graffiti imagery with paint or paper.

You can fashion an unusual skull decoration by applying graffiti imagery to the surface. Whether you are creating a Halloween prop or an offbeat home decoration, a graffiti skull is sure to set you apart. Graffiti artists use cans of spray paint, and you can follow suit to cover the skull. If you are not comfortable with your graffiti skills, you can apply paper-based graffiti imagery instead. However you choose to embellish your skull, you can create a one-of-a-kind object to spook or intrigue its viewers.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Skull, plastic or resin
• Spray paint
• Graffiti images on paper (magazines, newspaper or computer-printed)
• Scissors
• Craft glue
• Bowl
• Foam paintbrush

Instructions

Painting Graffiti

1. Lay down newspapers to cover your work surface. Lay the skull on the newspaper.

2. Shake the can of spray paint according to the preparation methods listed on the can. Test the paint on the newspaper to practice making narrow lines.

3. Hold the can 3 inches from the skull. Paint letters in long, sweeping strokes. Refrain from stopping as you paint a line or letter. Graffiti should look continuous. Replicate cursive handwriting with the paint can to achieve the most authentic effect.

4. Switch colors frequently. Use many bright, vivid hues. Overlap the colors and shapes.

5. Continue layering the graffiti letters until you reach the desired appearance.

Applying Paper Graffiti

1. Cut out images of graffiti from magazines, newspapers or computer-printed pages with scissors. Cut as close to the graffiti in the image as possible to eliminate any color or print that is not part of the graffiti itself. Cut enough images to cover the entire skull.

2. Lay down newspapers to cover your work surface. Pour craft glue into a bowl.

3. Dip a foam paintbrush into the glue. Paint a thin layer of glue on a section of the skull. Work in sections so that the glue does not dry in some areas before you can apply the paper.

4. Press a piece of paper onto the glue. Smooth it across the contours of the skull with your fingers. Continue the application until you cover the skull.

5. Paint a thin layer of craft glue on the entire papered skull. Allow the skull to dry overnight.

References

• Thread Banger: DIY Graffiti Lace
• Family Fun: Decoupage Card Boxes