Making Mardi Gras Fun for Kids

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

20 Feb 2009 11:40 PM

Mardi Gras doesn't have to be all about booze and boobs. Forget about partying in New Orleans. Instead, stay home and have some good clean fun with your kids.

Here are some simple craft projects to help celebrate the countdown to Lent:

MARDI GRAS CROWNS

Materials:

Metallic Crowns (available at party stores, dollar stores and other discount retailers)

Sequins and/or Gemstones

Craft Glue

Glitter

Stapler

Directions:

Glue sequins or gemstones to crown.

Add dabs of glue to various spots on crown. Sprinkle glitter on glue. Shake off excess glitter.

Size crown and slide tab into the slot. Staple to hold in place.

MARDI GRAS HALF MASK

Materials:

Plastic Mask (sold individually or in packages at party stores or discount retailers)

Sequins and/or Gemstones

Feathers

Craft Glue

Directions:

Give your children a mask to decorate however they wish. Glue on feathers, sequins, glitter, gemstones, etc.

Allow glue to dry thoroughly before wearing.

HOMEMADE MARDI GRAS FLOAT

Materials:

Tissue Paper

Balloons

Shredded Paper (for gift bags)

Craft Glue

Scissors

8-feet of Ribbon

Glue Gun

Large Cardboard Box

Knife

Poster Paint

Foam Brush

Directions:

Cut the flaps off the box with a matte knife.

Turn it upside down and cut a circle large enough for child to fit through out of the bottom (which will eventually be the top).

Paint the box. Let dry thoroughly.

Cut tissue paper sheets into eight pieces. Crumple them up. Adhere to sides of the box with craft glue.

Cover the top of the box with craft glue, then arrange shredded paper to cover the top.

Use hot glue to attach balloons to bottom, placing glue only on the knotted portion of balloons.

Cut ribbon into two 4-foot pieces. Glue the ends inside the circle opening to make shoulder straps. Adjust size for child's comfort.

Make your own mock Mardi Gras parade with your child's float as the centerpiece.

Related Articles:

Fun Mardi Gras Craft Projects for the Entire Family

Mardi Gras in Missouri

What To Know About Carnival in Rio Before You Go

Mardi Gras and the King Cake

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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