Making Oversized Ornaments

Design coordinator Summer Baltzer shares how to create larger-than-life holiday ornaments for display.

Materials and Tools:

polystyrene forms
plaster ribbons
paint
polyurethane sealant

Steps:

1. Take large foam shapes and carve into interesting shapes or glue shapes together to create the oversized ornament shape.

2. Dip the plaster ribbons into water, dampening entire strip and smooth out over top of foam shape. Continue to layer plaster ribbons until the shape is completely covered.

3. Allow to dry for one to two days (must be completely dry to prevent mold from forming).

4. Plan your design and paint ornaments using acrylic paint.

5. Seal the paint with polyurethane to give it a slightly glossy finish and protect it from chipping.