Learn how to paper mache by making this basket that you can use at Easter or any time. All you have to do is change the colors and the embellishments. Your basket can look like and egg or more like a traditional basket.

• Age Guideline: 6 Years and Up
• Time Required: 60 minutes (Does not include drying time)

The above age and time guidelines are estimates. This project can be modified to suit other ages and may take more or less time depending on your circumstances.

Materials Needed:

• Round Balloon
• Newspaper
• Paper Mache Paste
• Masking Tape
• Cardboard
• Paint
• Scissors or Utility Knife

Instructions:
Get your newspaper ready by tearing several strips. You want them to be 1- to 2-inches wide and 10 or so inches long. Set these aside and grab a large bowl. Read through this collection of paper mache recipes and pick one to use for your basket. My favorite is the no-cook paste recipe. This is also the easiest recipe and should work well for this project.

Blow up the balloon and tie it closed. Grab a larger cup or a bowl and cove it with plastic wrap so it doesn't get full of paste. Set the balloon on it, tied side down.

You can now start applying your newspaper strips. Dip one at a time in the paste, pull it between your fingers to remove any excess paste, and stick it on the balloon. Completely cover the balloon.

Let the first paper mache layer dry and then add at least two more layers. Make sure you let each layer dry before you add the next. Let the final layer dry for at least 24 hours before you move on to the next step.

Decide what kind of basket you want to make. You can make one that is shaped like an egg or one that looks more like a traditional basket. Use a pair of scissors or a utility knife and either cut a hole in the side of your balloon or cut the paper mached balloon in half. This second method will give you two baskets.

If you made an egg shaped basket you can now paint and decorate your egg however you choose. You can then fill it with Easter grass and treats.

If you are making a more traditional shaped basket, use a strip cut from cardboard to make a hand for your basket. Use masking tape to attach the cardboard to the sides of the basket. Cover the handle and the sides of the basket where the handle is attached with a few more layers of paper mache. Once it is dry, you can paint and decorate it however you like. You can then fill it with Easter grass and treats.

- See a photo of this craft completed by Kathy Berg.

- See a photo of this craft completed by The Napier Family.