How to Make a Monster Head

Make a mummy's head using toilet paper or white bandages.

One of the most recognizable monsters in popular culture is Frankenstein. First introduced in Mary Shelley's 1818 novel and featured in the1931 film classic, Frankenstein has become notorious for his green skin and square-shaped head. Other iconic monsters, such as The Mummy, have been featured in many movies. A homemade monster head using highly recognizable features adds a spooky and macabre feel to Halloween decorations and parties.

Things You'll Need

• Balloon
• Cardboard
• Scissors
• Masking tape
• Papier mache
• Old newspaper
• Wheat paste
• Toilet paper or white bandages
• Acrylic paint
• Large metal bolts

Instructions

Frankenstein Monster Head

1. Inflate a balloon to about the size of a human head.

2. Shape the balloon to create the square head of a Frankestein monster. Tape a wide strip of cardboard around the balloon at the crown. Cut out a U-shaped piece of cardboard and tape it to the bottom of the balloon (nozzle) to form a square chin.

3. Cover the balloon in papier mache. Coat strips of old newspaper in wheat paste. Cover the balloon with the strips of newspaper. This step may require up to six coats of strips to cover the monster's head. Allow the balloon to dry completely.

4. Apply two coats of green paint to the balloon and let it dry. Paint the top of the monster's head black. Paint a line of black stitching across the monster's forehead. Add ears and facial features to the monster's head.

5. Glue bolts to the side of the monster's head.

Mummy Monster Head

1. Inflate a balloon to about the size of a human head.

2. Coat the monster's head in papier mache. Wrap the head in white toilet paper or bandages. Leave a space for the eyes to show.

3. Cut two circles out of black construction paper for eyes. Glue the eyes on to your mummy.

Tips & Warnings

• Lay out clothes on a table or in a chair. Stuff them with newspaper to make a body for your Frankenstein monster. Wrap the body in toilet paper to create a mummy. Tape the balloon head to the table or chair to keep it in place above the body of the monster.

References

• "Halloween How-To: Costumes, Parties, Decorations, and Destinations"; Lesley Pratt Bannatyne; 2001

Resources

• Solar Cooking: Recipe for Wheat Paste
• Family Fun: Halloween Craft: Vampire Balloon Bat