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papier mache, spring, birds
Papier mache birds are a great addition to your spring decorating or they can hang out all year around your house. Make your favourite bird to keep you company.

Posted by thatartistwoman from Calgary, Alberta, Canada • Published See thatartistwoman's 7 projects »
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  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 1
    Step 1

    Take a quarter sheet of newspaper and scrunch into a pear shape.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 2
    Step 2

    Tape into place.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 3
    Step 3

    Cut up some paper towels into strips. Pour some white glue into a container and add an equal amount of water. Mix well. Dip your strips into the glue mixture and cover your newspaper shape. Make sure to overlap your strips for strength. Twist a beak out of a strip and adhere to bird with a strip or 2. Use a few dry strips every now and then to soak up excess glue.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 4
    Step 4

    Leave to dry overnight on some wax paper.
    Cut wings and a tail out of some thin cardboard.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 5
    Step 5

    Take cardboard shapes and cover with one layer of papier mache

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 6
    Step 6

    Attach to bird body with papier mache.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 7
    Step 7

    Leave to dry. When dry paint with acrylic paint.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 8
    Step 8

    Add small details with more paint and a fine brush and/or sharpie.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 9
    Step 9

    To make the legs and feet take a piece of wire about 16 inches long. Starting in the middle of the wire bend a foot shape. Twist together the remaining ends of the wire to make a leg.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 10
    Step 10

    Cover leg by wrapping embroidery thread around the leg and knot onto the leg.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 11
    Step 11

    Using an awl or knitting needle poke holes where the legs will attach.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 12
    Step 12

    Put a dot of glue on these holes and then insert wire leg. Let dry. You can also use a hot glue gun for this.

  • How to make an ornament. Papier Mache Birds - Step 13
    Step 13

    When dry, bend wires so bird can sit upright. You now have a little friend to keep you company.

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