How to Make Paper Mache Headstones
- 1). Cut out two rectangles from cardboard that has one rounded end. Size the cardboard to measure 18 inches by 24 inches.
- 2). Cut out a long rectangle from cardboard to measure 4 inches by 84 inches.
- 3). Lay the long rectangle flat on a table or countertop and cut horizontal lines down the entire length of the rectangle. This is called scoring and will allow the rectangle to bend into a specified shape.
- 4). Heat up a hot glue gun for five minutes.
- 5). Lay one of the rounded rectangles on a flat surface with the rounded end facing up. Squeeze a line of hot glue around the entire perimeter of the shape. Place one edge of the long rectangle onto the hot glue and wrap the long rectangle around the hot glue perimeter. Hold the form into place for two minutes to allow the hot glue to cool and harden.
- 6). Squeeze a line of hot glue around the entire exposed edge of the long rectangle, then press the other rounded rectangle on top of the form. Hold the rectangle in place for two minutes to allow the hot glue to cool and harden.
- 7). Paint the entire headstone form using gray texturized paint. This will make the cardboard headstone look as though it's carved out of stone. Allow the paint to dry for 30 minutes.
- 8). Paint lettering on one side of the headstone using black acrylic paint. Allow the paint to dry for 30 minutes before displaying the headstone.
