How to Make a Paper Plate Leprechaun

Leprechauns have become a symbol of St. Patrick's Day, probably because they are green and St. Patrick's Day is an Irish holiday. Ireland has such beautiful green land that it is associated with that color. When children are ready to celebrate St. Patrick's Day they can create leprechauns out of paper plates and some paint.

Things You'll Need

• Paper plate
• Green felt
• Black felt
• Glue
• Scissors
• Paint
• Paintbrush
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Lay a paper plate on a flat surface.

2. Draw a leprechaun with a pencil on your paper plate. Don't use a pen because you won't be able to erase any mistakes you make. If you aren't sure how to draw a leprechaun use a picture from a book. Or, visit the Drago Art website for diagrams on how to draw a leprechaun (see Resources below).

3. Cut the leprechaun out with a pair of scissors.

4. Paint the leprechaun's face and hands.

5. Cut out a jacket and pants from green felt. Glue them on the leprechaun.

6. Cut out a hat from green felt and glue it above the leprechaun's head.

7. Cut out a belt and shoes from black felt and glue to the leprechaun.

8. Set the leprechaun out to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a hole puncher to punch a hole in the leprechaun. Thread a piece of yarn through the hole and tie in to a necklace.

• Cut a strip of magnet for the back of the leprechaun. Stick to your refrigerator.

• Lay newspapers out on your workspace area to protect the surfaces from paint.

• Wear a smock or apron to protect clothes from paint.

Resources

• Visit Drago Art for How to Draw a Leprechaun