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Cost
$ $ $ $ $
Difficulty
• • • • •
Time
52h00

DIY antlers on the cheap
This project was created by using many different tutorials. While some were relatively easy to follow, some where not. Thus, this is a tutorial that combines those with what I have learned.

Also, please note that the time indicated does not constitute actual time spent working on it, but rather that and the time drying.

Posted by Falene M. from Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada • Published See Falene M.'s 12 projects »
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  • Step 1

    First, find a reference photo. Look to google for this (or go into nature and find a horned animal).

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 2
    Step 2

    Create a base structure out of tin foil based on the reference photo. start with the core and add branches. Attach the branches via hot glue.

    NOTE: you can get rid of 'spidery' remains using a lighter, but be careful to avoid falling hot glue.

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 3
    Step 3

    Create Paper Mache: I used 2/3 cups flour, 1/3 cup water. Make sure to get rid of the 'bumps'.

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 4
    Step 4

    Use small strips of newspaper. (thin AND small).

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 5
    Step 5

    Thicken up the Paper Mache.
    Use this for the base of the antler (it will take a while to dry).

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 6
    Step 6

    Hang to dry overnight. When it is dry, remake Paper Mache and add a second layer.

    OPTIONAL: add a layer of plaster cloth wrap. Use thin strips. This will make the antler more sturdy and it will last better when exposed to rain. The cost of this cloth can start as low as $4.

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 7
    Step 7

    When everything is completely dry, paint it white. Use 2-4 layers of white paint.

    Add 'dots' using hot glue. use more around the base and the branches.

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 8
    Step 8

    Paint brown. The tips use one layer and the base uses 5 (for shading and darkening).

    When dry, hot glue onto a headband.

  • How to make an antler. Amazing Antlers - Step 9
    Step 9

    To style, wrap hair around the base of the antlers.

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Comments

Wild A.
Wild A.
Exceptional! I absolutely adore this tutorial. Thanks. <3
Falene M.
Falene M. · Abbotsford, British Columbia, CA · 18 projects
Thank you! If you made a version of this, I would love to see it Happy
Reply
Cat Morley
Cat Morley · London, GB · 1432 projects
You look amazing, these turned out great!
Falene M.
Falene M. · Abbotsford, British Columbia, CA · 18 projects
Thank you. That's sweet Happy
Reply

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