We made these cute little guys at a craft night last month with some friends. I saw the idea at Craft Goodies and had to have one for myself. They were so much fun to make, and I loved seeing how everyone's turkeys turned out so different. Besides using a glue gun, this project can also be very kid-friendly!
You don't need many supplies for this project, either:
- 2x4 Wood Block {cut 4 inches tall}
- 5 Gallon Paint Stick {Found at WalMart and Home Depot. Cut at about 5 1/2 inches tall from the handle end so your turkey has a neck}
- 1/4" Brown Organza Ribbon {cut about 6 inches long}
- 4 Wide/Jumbo Craft Sticks
- Brown Acrylic Paint
- Black Acrylic Paint or Sharpie
- Mod Podge
- Scrapbook Paper {in multiple colors/patterns}
Paint the block and the paint stick with the brown paint. I ended up painting 2-3 coats. I then sanded all the edges for a distressed look.
For the turkey face and body, tie the ribbon around the "neck". Cut out a small triangle out of yellow paper for the beak, and a small piece of red for the "gobbler" thing. Add two small black dots with the end of a paint brush dipped in black paint, or use a Sharpie marker.
Add a line of hot glue to the back of the paint stick and attach it to the center front of the block.
While the turkey is drying, trace a craft stick onto a piece of scrapbook paper. Cut out the paper and add a layer of Mod Podge to the craft stick. Lay the paper pattern-side up and press onto the stick. Add another layer of Mod Podge over the paper. Once dry, cut the stick in half with strong scissors. You could cut them in half to begin with and use multiple papers, but I found it easier to Mod Podge whole sticks, then cut. I also made a bunch at once so I had more patterns to use for my turkey.
Arrange the sticks on the back of the turkey, starting at the bottom on both sides and work your way to the middle until they look how you want. Hot glue the sticks in place, one at a time. You may have to overlap the sticks a little on the back, but you won't be able to tell from the front.
That's it! He makes a great addition to my holiday decor. He would even be adorable on your Thanksgiving table as a fun centerpiece!
