DIRECTIONS:
To maximize area for maneuvering marionettes, one of the middle two wooden slats can be removed.
1. Paint crate with Lavender paint to cover all raw wood. Allow to dry. Glue background directly to crate slats
at back of theater. Two sheets of paper will be required; center one and cut the 2nd to fill in on left & right sides.
2. Measure the opening between slats from left to right and cut 3 sheets of foam core to this width. These will become
3 backdrop panels and the theater floor. The one shown was cut to 16¼" width.
3. Draw backdrop shapes on foam core sheets, making sure they extend beyond the top of the crate with the tallest
one in the back. Plan the general openings within the backdrops to become larger toward the front of the theater,
so backdrops behind each are still visible.
4. Cut out foam core shapes. Trace on paper and cut out, adding 1/4" beyond each shape, except at side edges and
bottom. Glue paper pieces to foam core. Embellish with tree trunks, flowers & leaves.
5. Curve the front of the floor foam core piece, using a large platter or tray as a template. Paint white foam core edges
and glue paper onto surface. Punch circles from paper and glue to front curve.
6. Cut strips of paper the width of top slats and cover each slat.
7. Cover sides and front edges of theater with paper. Add other paper embellishments, as desired.
Skill Level 2: Some experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: 6 to 8 hrs + dry time
Please read and follow all manufacturers’ instructions for all tools and materials used.
Provide adult supervision if children participate in this project.
©2011 Jo-Ann Stores, Inc. All rights reserved.
Created by Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores
®
P082-202 • 072-366
MARIONETTE THEATER
SUPPLIES & TOOLS:
• Large wood crate
• DCWV
™
Cardstock Stacks:
Once Upon A Time
Old World
• Lavender acrylic paint
• Paint, paintbrush
• 3 large sheets of foam core
• Glue sticks
• Paper trimmer, scissors
• Ruler
• Craft knife
• Yardstick or T-square
• Pencil
• Punches: small flower, large hole, circle
Marionettes can be reduced or enlarged as desired. Cut 2 arms and 2 legs. Reverse direction for
2nd arm or leg. Reinforce where strings will attach with extra layer of cardstock.
