How to Make a Pilgrim Bonnet Out of Paper

Making Pilgrim hats is a good way to celebrate Thanksgiving and learn a little about the Pilgrim way of life. Cloth bonnets were worn by Pilgrim women and girls to protect their eyes and faces from the sun. The bonnets also covered their hair, which was important to those who practiced the conservative Puritan faith. Even children can make paper versions of Pilgrim bonnets.

Things You'll Need

• White paper, 12 by 15 inches
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Stapler
• String or yarn
• Hole punch

Instructions

1. Lay the rectangle of paper on a work surface so that the long side is horizontal in front of you.

2. Fold the bottom of the paper up 1.5 inches.

3. On the opposite side of the paper from the fold, measure 6 inches from each side and cut a slit 2 inches long. The two cuts should be 3 inches apart in the center of the paper.

4. Measure 7 inches down one side of the paper and fold it diagonally from this point to the bottom of the nearest slit. Repeat on the opposite side.

5. Fold these two side flaps toward the back, tucking the center flap underneath them.

6. Staple the flaps together at the top to form the crown of the bonnet. Staple through all three layers of paper.

7. Staple the paper at the bottom of the flaps, joining both layers.

8. Punch a hole through both layers of the folded-up front of the bonnet, one on either end of the fold.

9. Tie a piece of string or yarn through each hole, each string long enough to allow the two to be tied together under your chin.

10. Place the bonnet on your head with the folded edge in the front. Tie the string under your chin.

References

• Making Friends: Paper Pilgrim Bonnet