- Create a large 3D creature inexpensively out of paper mache. Start by making a wire frame for the animal out of sturdy but malleable wire, anywhere from 14 to 20 gauge. When the frame has the shape of the desired animal, mix paper mache paste by boiling five parts water and one part flour for about three minutes and allowing it to cool until it is safe to touch. Paint the glue on scraps of newspaper and apply them on the frame, allowing each layer to harden before putting on the next. When the paper mache part is done, paint the animal in whatever color scheme you want.
- To work on a smaller scale, create a 3D creature out of clay. Many types of clay work, from colored modeling clay designed for children to potter's clay to fire in a kiln. It is easy to rework parts of the animal until they look just right. Clay is durable if you follow the instructions to harden the clay in an oven or kiln, and it is reusable if you choose not to keep your 3D creature.
- Make a 3D creature from household items that you would have thrown away or recycled. Some simple materials include plastic bottles, cardboard toilet paper tubes, cereal boxes, egg cartons and old socks. Combine these with basic craft supplies, such as glue, paper and paint, to make and decorate any type of 3D creature. This type of craft is perfect for young kids because it teaches them to reuse items in creative ways rather than throwing them away.
- You can use just about any materials, 3D or not, to make a 3D creature. Paper is one of the easiest; you can fold it into origami shapes or crumple it into the shape of an animal. Sew or glue fabric in the shape of an animal and stuff it with batting or another type of filling. For a party themed around a particular animal, make a 3D cake of the chosen beast by combining sheet cakes of various sizes and shapes with regular-sized and miniature cupcakes.
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