Papier Mache Owl or Penguin Figurine

Materials Needed:

✅ Balloon (small or medium-sized)

✅ Newspaper or tissue paper (torn into strips)

✅ Flour & water or PVA glue (for papier-mâché paste)

✅ Paint (acrylic or poster paint)

✅ Cardboard (for wings, beak, and feet)

✅ Craft feathers (for the owl)

✅ Googly eyes or painted paper eyes

✅ Scissors

✅ Paintbrushes

✅ Optional: Mod Podge or varnish (for sealing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Balloon

Blow up a balloon to the desired size (small for a cute figurine, medium for a bigger display piece).

Tie the balloon and place it in a bowl to keep it stable while you work.

Step 2: Make the Papier Mache Paste

🔹 Flour & Water Paste: Mix 1 part flour with 2 parts water until smooth. Boil for a few minutes to thicken (optional).

🔹 PVA Glue Paste: Mix equal parts glue and water.

Step 3: Apply the Papier Mache

Dip newspaper or tissue paper strips into the paste and remove excess paste with your fingers.

Cover the entire balloon with 3-4 layers, letting each layer dry before adding the next.

Leave a small hole at the bottom (this is where you’ll pop the balloon later).

Let it dry completely (24 hours for best results).

Step 4: Shape the Owl or Penguin

For an Owl:

✔ Cut cardboard into two small wings, two feet, and a beak.

✔ Glue or tape the wings onto the sides of the body.

✔ Attach the beak to the front and feet at the bottom.

For a Penguin:

✔ Cut cardboard into two flipper-shaped wings, two feet, and a small beak.

✔ Glue or tape the wings onto the sides and the feet at the bottom.

✔ Optionally, add a small round piece on top for the head if you want a slightly different shape.

Once attached, cover these details with one more layer of papier mache to blend them in. Let dry again.

Step 5: Pop the Balloon & Paint

Carefully pop the balloon through the small hole at the bottom and remove it.

Paint your figure:

Owl: Brown, white, or gray with feather patterns.

Penguin: Black and white with an orange beak and feet.

Let dry before adding details.

Step 6: Add Features & Details

Attach googly eyes or paint large cartoonish eyes.

Add feathers for an owl, or paint texture details for both.

Use black marker to outline features.

Step 7: Seal & Display

Apply Mod Podge or varnish to protect the design.

Display your figurine on a shelf, or hang it with a string for decoration!

18 other projects do make with a balloon.

Using a balloon as a base is a great way to create rounded papier mache projects. Here are other creative ideas:

1. Pinata – A classic papier-mâché craft that can be decorated for any occasion.

2. Hot Air Balloon – Add a small basket and strings for a whimsical decoration.

3. Animal Heads – Create a lion, panda, or any animal for wall-mounted decor.

4. Easter Eggs – Make large, colorful eggs for Easter celebrations.

5. Moon Lamp – Paint it like the moon and add LED lights inside.

6. Globe – Create an educational earth model with painted continents.

7. Decorative Bowls – Cut the dried papier-mâché shell in half and paint it.

8. Fruit Decor – Turn it into a giant apple, orange, or watermelon.

9. Cartoon Character Heads – Perfect for cosplay or Halloween masks.

10. Snowman – Stack two different-sized balloons for a winter craft.

11. Alien or Monster Head – Add extra papier-mâché details for a fun, spooky look.

12. Jack-o’-lantern – A lightweight alternative to a pumpkin with cut-out features.

13. Football or Soccer Ball – Paint it with team colors for fun decor.

14. Helmet – A medieval knight’s helmet or a space helmet for costumes.

15. Bird Nest – Cut the top off and paint it to resemble a nest.

16. Mushroom Cap – Use a large balloon to form the cap for a fairy tale mushroom.

17. Dinosaur Egg – Great for kids' parties or dinosaur-themed decorations.

18. Fish Bowl – Paint it with underwater scenes and add toy fish.