How to Decorate Sugar Skulls?
Sugar skulls, also known as calaveras, are a traditional Mexican decorations that are typically made using sugar or paper mache. They are often filled with candy or other sweets and are used to commemorate the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) holiday, which is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. Decorating sugar skulls is a fun and creative activity that can add a personal touch to any celebration or gathering. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to decorate sugar skulls:
Supplies Needed
Before starting to decorate your sugar skulls, make sure you have the following supplies:
• Sugar skulls (you can buy them at a crafts store or online)
• Paint (acrylic, watercolor, or any other type you prefer)
• Brushes (various sizes and shapes)
• Glue
• Raffia or string (for adding decorations)
• Decorations (optional):
+ Candy or seeds for eyes
+ Glitter or sequins
+ Feathers or other lightweight materials for hair
+ Lipstick or lip gloss (for adding a pop of color)Basic Designs
Before we dive into the specifics of decorating, let’s talk about basic designs. There are no hard and fast rules for decorating sugar skulls, and you can be as creative as you want. Some popular designs include:
Simple and Bright
This design is great for a bold and playful look.
• Paint the entire sugar skull a solid color.
• Add bright, swirly patterns using paints or markers.
• Accent with glitter or sequins.
Playful and Whimsical
This design is perfect for children or for those who like a playful look.
• Paint the sugar skull bright colors (e.g. pink, blue, or yellow).
• Add oversized eyes or other whimsical features (e.g. a smiling face).
• Use glitter, sequins, or other decorations for added sparkle.
Elegant and Sophisticated
This design is great for a more mature look.
• Paint the sugar skull metallic colors (e.g. gold, silver, or copper).
• Add intricately designed patterns using glitter or paint.
• Highlight with lip gloss or red lipstick for added drama.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have an idea of some basic designs, let’s get started with the instructions!
Basic Painting Techniques
• Start by choosing a color scheme for your sugar skull. You can use one color or experiment with different shades and combinations.
• Apply a thin coat of paint to the skull using a brush. Try to cover the entire area evenly.
• Use fine-tip brushes to add more details (e.g. eyes, mouth, or clothing).
Decorating the Eyes
• Use lipstick or lip gloss to color the eyes (optional, but adds a pop of color).
• Add seed or candy beads for extra detail (be careful, as these can be tiny and delicate).
• Or, you can use plain old markers to draw in the eyes (a super easy and fast option!)!
Hair and Accessories
• Use raffia or string to tie on hair pieces (feathers or lightweight materials work well for this).
• Add earrings, necklaces, or other accessories to give the sugar skull a more sophisticated look.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few additional tips and tricks to keep in mind while decorating your sugar skulls:
• Seal Your Work: To prevent flaking or smudging, spray a clear coat of hairspray or varnish to seal your designs.
• Keep it Simple: Don’t overdo it! Less is often more when it comes to decorations.
• Experiment, Experiment, Experiment! Don’t be afraid to try new things and step outside your comfort zone!
• Store Your Skills: Keep your sugar skulls in an airtight container to prevent moisture buildup and keep them fresh and intact.
Conclusion
Decorating sugar skulls can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when adding your own personal touch with paint, glue, raffia, and imagination! Remember to have fun with it and be creative: there are no rules about how to decorate your skulls, and it’s really up to your personal whims. With a little know-how and the right tools, you’ll be carving out a sweet and impressive sugar skull masterpiece in no time!
Table for Sugar Skull Design Inspiration