How to Make a Roman Paper Helmet

Creating a paper Roman helmet is quick and fun.

If you’re planning a Roman-themed party or if you just want to make something cool, creating a Roman helmet from paper mache is the way to go. A paper Roman helmet can be a neat work of art that doubles as both the finishing for any Roman gladiator costume and a neat conversation piece among family and friends. Since the process of creating the helmet involves paper mache, it’s easy to get the kids involved in this fun project.

Things You'll Need

• Large round balloon
• Paper mache pulp
• Newspaper
• Scissors
• Safety pin
• Spray paint
• Cereal cardboard
• Glue gun
• Red feathers

Instructions

1. Blow up a large, round balloon that is slightly larger than the size of your head. Set the balloon aside.

2. Create a paper mache paste by filling hot water and pre-made paper mache pulp in a large bowl. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes.

3. Cut several pieces of newspaper with a pair of scissors and dip each piece into the paper mache. Turn the balloon stem-side up and layer the newspaper over the balloon without covering the stem portion. Create 5 to 6 layers, and then allow the paper mache strips to dry.

4. Pop the balloon with a safety pin and discard the remains. Plug the top of the helmet with more paper mache-covered newspaper and allow it to dry.

5. Trim the bottom of the helmet and cut out a front panel, so that it resembles a motorcycle helmet. Make sure the ears are not covered. Paint the helmet with gold and silver spray paint.

6. Cut out two pieces of cereal cardboard into long, semi-rectangular shapes. Decorate the pieces as desired and glue each piece on each side of the helmet, just ahead of the ears.

7. Cut out a large piece of cereal cardboard into an elongated diamond shape spanning from ear to ear on the helmet. Decorate the piece as desired and glue it to the front of the helmet, just above the upper lid. Glue the decorative red feathers onto the top of the helmet.

References

• Storm The Castle: How to Make a Spartan Helmet out of Cardboard and Paper Mache
• DLTK’s Growing Together: How to Paper Mache