Paper Maché News Year’s Eve Decor

Supplies:

1. Print out numbers. Using your computer and printer, print out your “2020” numbers to the desired size – the bigger the better! These will become your stencils.
2. Tape the numbers to cardboard. Cut out the numbers, then use masking tape, tape them to pieces of cardboard. Draw around the numbers with a pencil to create an outline.

3. Cut the cardboard. Place your marked sheet of cardboard on the Fiskars® Self-Healing Cutting Mat (24” x 36”) cutting mat. Then, using the Fiskars® Heavy-duty Easy Change Detail knife, follow the pencil line and cut out the cardboard. You will need two numbers for each finished paper maché number.

4. Cut strips of cardboard. Using the same detail knife, cut small strips of leftover cardboard. Hot glue several strips together and stack them onto one of the cardboard numbers. Next, place the second number of top of the pile and glue in place.

5. Cut the sides of the paper maché numbers. First, measure the space between the front and back number. Then use the Fiskars® ProCision™ Rotary Bypass Trimmer (12”) to cut cardstock strips to this width.

6. Attach the sides of the paper maché numbers. Glue one cardstock strip at a time to the sides of the numbers, sealing the side completely and concealing your added cardboard pieces between the two sides of each number.

7. Tape the numbers. Using masking tape, tape the numbers entirely. Use the Fiskars® Total Control Non-stick Precision Scissors to cut the ends of the masking tape.

8. Prepare the paper maché. Mix white glue and water together in a bowl. Then cut strips of newspaper. Dip the newspaper in the water and glue mixture and wrap around each number entirely. Add several layers so that the numbers are sealed, and the surface is smooth. Allow the paper maché to dry thoroughly.

9. Paint the numbers. Once the glue mixture and newspaper are completely dry, spray paint each number. Depending on your chosen color, you may need to prime the numbers first.
10. Decorate the numbers. Cut multiple circles from cardstock using the Fiskars® Circle Thick Materials Punch (2”). Then adhere the cut-out circles to each number using double sided tape. Once you’ve finished, you’ll be left with a giant New Year’s Eve party decoration that is sure to be a statement piece!