How to Make a Paper Sombrero

Traditional Sombrero

A sombrero is a wide-brimmed Mexican hat. Traditionally made of straw, it was designed to protect the wearer from the sun. The crown is usually high and somewhat pointed, while the wide brim casts a shadow, or "sombra," over much of the head, shoulders and upper body. Fancy sombreros are often made of felt. Highly-decorated versions of the sombrero are still a feature of traditional fiestas. You can make a basic sombrero out of newspaper.

Things You'll Need

• 2 sheets of newspaper
• Clear tape

Instructions

1. Place one sheet of newspaper over the other in the form of an "X." Place the "X" on top of the wearer's head.

2. Mold the newspapers around the top of the person's head. Use light pressure to avoid tearing. Bunch up the paper so it forms a high crown.

3. Place clear tape all around the bottom border of the crown. The tape should follow roughly along the line of the wearer's ears.

4. Fold and roll up the sides of the sombrero partially, to form a brim. The brim should be wide and flaring, but turned up at the ends.

Tips & Warnings

• Decorate your sombrero in bright and festive colors. Use paint or sparkles. Add stars or sequins, or even cut out pictures or designs and glue them on.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Sercal sombreros, serapes, and other Mexican and Guatemalan goods
• El Charro sombreros, charro, and festival suits
• DJ Billy James sombreros, party hats, and other party gear and equipment