When I began this project I had no idea what I was doing. But I tell you it was fun making them. I started by making balls out of aluminum foil. That was hard on the hands, gloves helped.
I made five with arms and legs using wire and foil.
After getting the shapes done I covered them with paper mache using tissue paper. This was easy.
The next step was covering the shapes with paper clay. I made the paper clay and that was a challenge. I found a website with the best tutorial videos. You use toilet paper, water, drywall compound and white glue. What I found is I needed to follow the recipe exactly in order to get the right consistency. Once the paper clay dries I sanded them to get a smooth texture.
The next step was painting them with gesso. I even made my own gesso. White glue and drywall compound with a little white paint. Easy enough. This gave them the neatest texture and feel. I sanded them a little but not much was needed.
I started by painting their faces. Oh, I did add noses either with clay or orange painted tooth pick noses. This is when their personalities started to show up. Once the faces were painted I lightly sprayed them with a spray adhesive and showered them with white glitter flakes. I loved the look of the glitter. This is a project I will do over and over again. I loved making them even though it was a very time consuming project. Most have found new homes this holiday season. I must admit it was hard to let them go. Each one definitely spoke to me. Once I make more I will post for SALE.
I have an abundance of supplies, lots of holiday theme stuff, glitters, ribbons, papers, garland, bells, words, streamers, eyelets, wires, greenery, and imagination. This was the best part of the whole project was dressing them up.
