Egyptian Papyrus Paper

Egyptian Papyrus Paper craft

Ancient Egyptians made their own paper—and you can, too! Then write a message in hieroglyphics or create a treasure map for more fun with your friends.

  • 1.

    To make paper, Ancient Egyptians flattened and smashed stalks of the papyrus (puh-PIE-rus) plant. Then they placed the stalks running up and down in one layer and side to side in the other. Here’s how to make paper using a similar technique. Cover your craft surface with newspaper or make your paper outdoors.

  • 2.

    Make the paper! Mix an equal amount of Crayola® School Glue and water in a flat bowl. Tear a brown paper bag into strips. Lay a paper towel on the newspaper. Dip strips one at a time in the glue mix. Lay them on the paper towel with their edges overlapping. Press the strips smooth. Arrange more strips going across the first layer. Press smooth. Air-dry your paper.

  • 3.

    Decorate your paper. Use Crayola Gel Markers to decorate your Egyptian Papyrus Paper. Write your name in hieroglyphics (the ancient Egyptian form of writing). Draw the Great Sphinx (an ancient Egyptian monument that looks like a king with a lion’s body). Or design a treasure map and set up a treasure hunt with your friends. Have fun!