Materials Needed:
- 2 Balloons (large, various sizes)
- Newspaper
- Paper Mache Paste
- Masking Tape
- Material for the legs (see below)
- Paint
Instructions:
Make sure you cover you work surface well. I usually set down newspaper first and then wax paper or plastic wrap on top of the newspaper. This is a very messy project!
Decide what size spider you want and choose the appropriate sized, round balloons. Blow up both balloons and tie them closed. Set your balloon in the cup or bowl and set it aside. Attach the balloons together using masking tape. Roll a piece of masking tape so the sticky side is out, place on the end of one balloon, and stick it to the other balloon.
Decide what you want to use to make the legs for your spider. Depending on the size of your spider, you can use rolled and wadded newspaper or foil; or you can try cardboard strips or paper towel/toilet tissue rolls. Carefully attach these to the sides of your balloons using masking tape. Make 4 legs for each side.
Tear several newspaper pages into strips. You will want them 1 inch wide and about 6 - 8 inches long. Set them aside.
Use a large bowl to prepare your paper mache paste (Pick a recipe here). The paste will be sticky! I would suggest using a bowl that is easy to soak and clean (glass perhaps) or even a disposable bowl. Now you are ready to start with the paper mache!
Dip the newspaper strips into the glue and spread them onto your balloons. Completely cover both balloons and all the legs (except where you can't see). Set aside and let this first layer dry.
Add at least two more layers of paper mache to your balloon. Allow each layer to dry completely before putting on the next layer.
Once the paper mache is completed and dry, you can now paint and decorate your spider as desired.
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