Paper Pumpkin

Paper Pumpkin
This fun paper mache pumpkin is not difficult to make but does require adult help.


Materials
Paper Mache Paste
Balloons (any size)
Newspaper
String
Paint
Construction paper
Googly eyes (optional)

General Instructions
Make Paper Mache Paste.

Paper Mache Paste

1 cup water
1/4 cup flour
5 cups lightly boiling water
Mix flour into one cup water until mixture is thin and runny, stir into boiling water. Gently boil and stir for 3 minutes. Cool before using. (Use with newspaper/newsprint strips for Paper mache).

Cut newspaper or newsprint into 2" wide strips.
Blow up balloons (as many as you like) and tie off. Attach string to tied end of balloon.
Once paper mache paste is cool, dip individual strips of newsprint into paste.
Apply strips to balloon one at a time. Repeat process until balloon is completely covered. The more layers the firmer your finished work will be.
Hang balloon by string in warm, dry area for at least 24 hours or until completely dry. Be sure to us a drip cloth to protect area.
**if you are making pumpkins - take a 1-2" piece of a paper towel or toilet paper roll. Hold on top of balloon and attach with newspaper strips to form stalk for pumpkin.

Paper Pumpkin

Once paper mached balloon is dry:
Gently insert sharp needle into base of balloon - you should hear a pop and balloon pull away from sides of hardened shell.
Gently push in bottom of shell to form a dent - or base for the pumpkin to sit.
Do not force. If dent will not form, use a cardboard strip, about 1" wide, stapled into a circle as a base.
Paint body of pumpkin orange. Paint stalk green.
To decorate paint eyes, nose and mouth on pumpkin in desired "look". You can use googly eyes if you wish. You can cut out green leaves from construction paper and use green floral wire to form vines.

You can also cut out eyes, nose and mouth using a sharp bladed knife. Then cut a circle in the back and shine a flashlight inside. Do NOT use a candle or flame. These pumpkins are paper and will immediately burn.

From visitors to Kids' Turn Central: "My kids and I made the paper mache jack o'lantern a few years back, but what we did with it was cut the top