Peg dolls are a classic craft project, and the pegs can bought from most art shops. But why not try creating your characters with corks from wine bottles instead? It is a fun way to recycle, and saves you from buying the pegs. The size and shape of corks also make the characters amusingly cartoony.
Before you start, it is best to have an idea in your mind about the character you want to create. Is it from a book or TV show, is it based on a real person, or is it one entirely of your own imagination? The following cork character is of Barney Rubble from
The Flintstones.
Make as many characters as you like. Each time you pop open a wine glass, let your child decorate the cork, and they can create an entire community and homemade collection.
Time: 10 minutes (per character)
Age: Any Age
Level: Easy
Materials
Water (for cleaning brushes)
Decide on the character you want to make.
Paint the skin of the character. This will include the front of the face, neck, and bottom of the cork. If they are wearing a v-top, it will include part of the chest, and if the character has short sleeves, little dots will represent the arms.
Paint on the hair. This should cover the top of the cork, and three quarters around the head, so it meets with the skin.
Paint the shirt. This should cover the lower half of the cork.
Use a fine brush to create small dots for the eyes, and paint on a nose, mouth, and ears.
Don't worry if you make a mistake. Just wait for the paint to dry, and then paint over it.
