How to Make a Santa Claus Balloon Craft Project

A balloon becomes the basis for a cool Santa craft.

Kids will love creating a paper mache Santa Claus using some common household items. Paper mache is simple to make. Create a Christmas decoration that will look festive displayed on a table or mantle. Make sure and lay down a tablecloth on your workspace beforehand, because paper mache can get a little messy. Ring in the holiday season with this kid-friendly craft that will put a smile on kids' faces.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper, torn into strips
• Balloon
• Large coffee can
• Flour
• Water
• Flesh-colored craft paint
• Paint brush
• Cotton balls
• Glue
• Construction paper
• Scissors

1. Inflate the balloon. A large balloon will work best for this craft. Set the balloon on the top of an open coffee can snugly.

2. Make paper mache. Mix together equal parts of flour and water to create a paste-like substance.

3. Dip newspaper strips into the paper mache mixture and apply them to the balloon. Cover the balloon completely, and use the paper mache strips to anchor the balloon to the coffee can as well. Once the whole balloon is covered, wait until the paper mache is completely dry before going further.

4. Pop the balloon, then paint the paper mache with flesh colored craft paint using a wide paintbrush. Allow this to dry.

5. Decorate your Santa with construction paper. Cut a piece of red construction paper to fit around the coffee can to form Santa's body. Glue it on.

6. Use cotton balls to make a beard and hair for Santa.

7. Make construction paper arms, legs and facial features and glue them on to your Santa Claus.

References

• DLTK: How To Paper Mache
• DLTK: Paper Mache Santa