How to Make a Paper Bag Puppet Costume

Paper Bag Puppet Costume: Make Your Own!

Want a fun, cheap costume? Try making a paper bag puppet! It's easy for kids and grown-ups. This guide shows you how, from start to finish. Perfect for Halloween, school plays, or just a fun afternoon.

Picking Your Paper Bag: The Base of Your Puppet

First, choose your paper bag. The size and color are important.

• Size: A big brown lunch bag makes a great puppet. Smaller bags work for little puppets or kids.
• Color: Brown's a classic. But colored bags are fun too! They add personality.
• Material: Use a sturdy bag. You don't want it ripping.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these things:

• Paper bag: The main part of your puppet!
• Scissors: For cutting.
• Glue: A glue stick or craft glue works well.
• Markers, crayons, or paint: To decorate your puppet's face and clothes.
• Construction paper: For extra details and clothes.
• Yarn or string: For hair.
• Elastic band or string: To hold the puppet to your hand.
• Optional: Googly eyes, buttons, ribbons – anything to make it special!

Let's Make a Puppet!

Here's how to make your paper bag puppet:

Step 1: Draw Your Design

Before you cut or glue, draw your puppet on the bag. This helps you plan and avoid mistakes. Think of it like a blueprint!

Step 2: Make the Face

Draw a fun face! Happy, sad, silly – it's up to you. Googly eyes are awesome.

Step 3: Add Hair (If You Want)

Glue yarn or string to the top for hair. Try different colors!

Step 4: Make Clothes

Get creative! Use construction paper to make clothes. A shirt and pants? A fancy dress? A superhero costume? The choice is yours!

Step 5: Add Arms

Cut out two small pieces of paper or felt for arms. Glue them to the sides of the bag. Leave space at the top for your hand.

Step 6: Headband (Optional)

Attach a headband. Your puppet's head can peek out from behind it.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Add extra details! Buttons, ribbons, whatever you like!

Step 8: Hand Hole

Cut a hole at the bottom for your hand. Make it big enough, but not too big.

Step 9: Secure Your Puppet

Attach an elastic band or string to the top. This keeps the puppet on your hand.

Tips and Tricks

• Plan ahead: Draw your design first!
• Use layers: Let each layer dry before adding the next.
• Get creative: Use fabric scraps, beads – anything you have!
• Make it yours: Make your puppet reflect your personality.
• Safety first: Always watch kids when they use scissors and glue.

More Advanced Ideas

Once you're good at the basics, try these:

• Characters: Make your favorite cartoon or book character!
• Animals: A cute dog, a cat, or even a lion!
• Fantasy: A dragon, a fairy, or a ghost!
• History: A queen or a pirate!

Have Fun!

Making paper bag puppets is a great way to be creative and tell stories. It's fun for families, school projects, or even plays! Experiment and have fun. Share your creations!

There are tons of ideas online. Search for "paper bag puppet crafts" or "DIY puppet costume tutorials". You'll find so many ideas!