Chinese Dragon Puppet
Parade with a one-of-a-kind Chinese Dragon puppet. Celebrate Chinese New Year, the country’s literature, or other aspects of this ancient culture.
1. Find the significance of dragons in Chinese culture. See how dragons are depicted in Chinese literature, culture, and festivals. Here’s one way to make a puppet based on your findings.
2. Using Crayola® Model Magic®, form a dragon head about as large as your fist. Poke holes in the back of the head for your fingers.
3. With contrasting colors of Model Magic, add facial features to the dragon such as eyes, eyebrows, ears, nose, horns, and fangs. Air-dry the dragon head at least 24 hours.
4. Cover your art area with white paper. With Crayola Scissors, cut enough plain white 100% polyester fabric to cover your lower arm. Draw a Chinese pattern on the fabric with Crayola Fabric Crayons.
5. To make an ironing pad, place white paper or newspaper over an iron-safe surface. Place fabric on ironing pad. Top design with white paper.
6. Ironing should be done by an adult in a well-ventilated area. Set iron on synthetic. Press design with slow steady pressure for 1 to 2 minutes. Lift iron to move it. Hold paper in place to prevent blurring. Remove paper carefully. For brighter colors, add more crayon while the fabric is still warm. *Overheating or scorching may release irritating fumes.
7. Using Crayola School Glue, attach fabric to your dragon’s head. Air-dry before performing or parading with your puppet.
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project.
Adult Assistance is required for this arts & crafts project.
Fabric Crayons or Melting Crayons—Melt crayons in a well-ventilated area. Overheating wax crayons during melting or ironing may release irritating fumes. Ironing should be done by an adult.
Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.
- Fabric designs can also be drawn (in reverse) on white paper and ironed on fabric using the process outlined.
- Create the puppet with Crayola Fabric Markers on 50/50 cotton/polyester. There’s no need to heat set it because the puppet will not be laundered. Younger students and those with special needs may find these markers easier to use.
- Invite a Chinese person to discuss their New Year’s celebrations and other aspects of Chinese culture.
- Research the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival, which is also celebrated in cities around the world. Design a replica of a dragon racing boat with Crayola Model Magic.
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