Paint a Calavera T-shirt for Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead is here! Why not have a go at transforming an old T-shirt or sweatshirt into a colorful Calavera T-shirt in celebration?

All you will need is a plain black t-shirt, acrylic paints and brushes, chalk, a biro pen and masking tape.

Print out this Happythought skull template and photo instructions, or have a go at drawing your own skull.

You can use the instructions as inspiration - there are no rules - color your t-shirt any way you want, and don't worry if it's a bit rough, that adds to the style!

Fistly, print out or draw your Calavera template. Next, cover the reverse of the template with chalk.

Tape the t-shirt on to a flat surface, then tape the printed template onto the t-shirt.

Next, take a biro pen and trace over the image, pressing hard as you go.

You can now remove the calavera template. The t-shirt will be covered in chalk dust, but don't worry! Just gently wipe off the chalk dust to reveal the outline of the calavera skull.

Now to start painting. Take your first color (we used red) and begin filling in the calavera face, leaving the white chalk lines exposed.

Take a second color and fill in the stars in the eyes. Then outline the hair with a light color. We used a bright metallic blue.

Carefully trace over the lines of the teeth, again in a light, bright color. Fill in some of the dots and shapes and you are all set!

Leave it to dry for half an hour, and your t-shirt is ready! You can wear it immediately, or put it on a COLD wash to seal in the colors.

Remember, if you are a Happythought Member you can download the template and instructions here for free.

Happy crafting!
Ellen and Harry

Happythought

P.s. Why not team up your t-shirt with a paper flower crown?
This template and tutorial is part of the Day of the Dead Craft Activity pack.

This craft activity pack includes instructions in English and Spanish, perfect for a classroom or homeschool project.

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