DIY Halloween Prop Heads: Easy & Affordable Papier Mache Tutorial

Create a fake head using papier mache.

A prop head can be used for many things on Halloween. A double-headed costume, a scary gag, a haunted house prop or just a decoration around the house. Instead of purchasing a fake head from a store, you can easily create one of your own and add personal touches to get it exactly how you want it. A simple papier mache project can turn into an annual Halloween event for the whole family.

Step 1

Lay newspaper across a counter or table. Set a bowl on top of the newspaper.

Step 2

Mix 3 cups white glue and 1 cup water until they are well combined. If you are making more than three heads, increase the mix to 5 cups glue and 1 1/2 cups water.

Step 3

Rip newspaper into strips the width of a belt and around 6 inches long.

Step 4

Blow up a balloon to a size slightly smaller than a head and tie it off. Set it down on the table.

Step 5

Dip the strips of newspaper into the papier mache mix. Cover the balloon completely with two layers of newspaper strips, smoothing them as you go.

Step 6

Add two extra strips on each side of the balloon to represent ears. Mold the paper into a shape of the ear. Dip two newspaper strips, roll them into a clump, and place it in the center of the face for the nose.

Step 7

Leave the papier mache balloon on the table to dry completely overnight. Clean up any extra supplies and newspaper scraps.

Step 8

Paint the head completely with a skin-toned color. Wait for the paint to dry completely.

Step 9

Use colored markers to fill in the details of the face, including eyes, nostrils, eyebrows, mouth and any other facial features, such as freckles.

Step 10

Glue a wig to the top of the head. If you do not have a wig, use yarn.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper

• Water

• Glue

• Balloon

• Paint

• Wig

• Markers