I have to go back in time from March and show these Paper Dolls again. Now that the weather is changing to crisp and cool, it seems like this project might be worth bring back to the front. Happy October. It's time for autumn crafting. Stay tuned.
We invented some paper dolls and were pleased to have created a mom and some sisters as well as a super hero...the costumes were made with a paint brush and watercolor paints but the sky is the limit. Cut paper costumes, markers, stickers--any of these material will get your children imagining a whole collection of friends and characters. I particularly like using brown paper bags (these were from Whole Foods to give you an idea of their weight) because they can handle heavy handed watercolorists. They stand up well and are not flimsy.
Making these dolls is all about a little technique and deep wells of imagination. It's always a nice surprise to see what characters come out of this simple method.
Step 1: Fold paper in half and trace a basic shape of a person to the left of the folded edge. Start with a very simple shape. (The big doll was 12" by 6" before folding.)
Step 2: Use scissors to cut along the outside shape. Don't cut the fold.
Step 3: Unfold the doll. To adjust details, fold the doll and cut as needed. Draw or paint in details for a face, clothing, and shoes.
Step 4: Suggest to the kids that they make up a story about the characters, give them names to make them come alive.
Step 5: Store in an envelope or folder when not in use, or display them on the table and admire the handiwork.
