How to Make a Paper Grappling Hook

With paper mache, you can make almost anything.

Making a grappling hook from paper mache may be easier than you think. With some commonly found supplies and materials you can make a very realistic grappling hook for use on stage, video or other production, but it will not actually support the weight of anyone so do not attempt to scale any walls with it. Instead of purchasing an authentic, expensive grappling hook, make one for a fraction of the cost yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Wire coat hangers
• Wire cutters
• Duct tape
• Newspaper
• Flour
• Bowl
• Black, water-based paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Unravel and straighten out two coat hangers then cut them with wire cutters to create three lengths that measure 15 inches and one that measures 20 inches. Bend the end of the 20-inch-long wire into a loop with the extra 5 inches.

2. Bend all four coat hanger wires into a "J" shape then place them together with the straight lengths in the center and the bent "J" portions evenly spaced and radiating from the center.

3. Tape the coat hangers together by wrapping the straight lengths with duct tape to hold them in place. You should now have a grappling hook skeleton.

4. Mix one part flour with one part water in a bowl until smooth. Tear some newspaper into 1-inch-wide strips.

5. Submerge the newspaper strips into the flour and water mixture then remove them. Wipe off the excess mixture and wrap them around the coat hanger skeleton. Add enough layers around the skeleton to pad and create an illusion of thick steel. Wrap the coat hanger loop opposite the hooks made in Step 1 as well.

6. Allow the skeleton frame to dry for a few hours then paint it with water-based, black paint to add realism. Attach a length of rope or string to the loop and use it as a prop but do not attempt to place any weight, especially the weight of your body, on the hook.

References

• DLTK Kids: How to Paper Mache