Introduction

Have you ever played with a paper popper? These quirky little toys are a classic when it comes to fun and games, especially for kids. They are easy to make, fun to decorate, and super satisfying to use! However, if you’ve never made a popper before, it can be a bit confusing at first. That’s why we’ve put together this article, to give you a complete and detailed guide on how to make a paper popper, step by step. We’ll also add some variations, ideas, and games you can use to inspire your creativity and enjoy every pop.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To make a paper popper, you will need a rectangular piece of paper, 8.5 x 11 inches. You can use any type of paper, but we recommend using a slightly thicker one, like construction paper.

1. Start by folding the paper in half, lengthwise. Then, unfold it and fold each corner toward the center crease. The two folds should meet at the middle of the paper, creating a pointy edge.



2. Next, fold the paper in half again, but this time in the opposite direction. Make sure the pointy edges are on the inside of the fold.



3. Hold the two inner edges and push them towards each other, making an inward fold. Then, snap your wrist upwards to create a loud popping sound!



4. To make the popper more durable, you can use tape to secure the outer edges of the folded paper. Cut off any excess or unwanted edges with scissors, and you’re done!

Video Tutorial

If you prefer watching a visual guide, follow along with this video tutorial that provides detailed instructions on how to make a paper popper:

Templates and Printouts

If you want to make your own popper but don’t feel very confident in your design skills, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. Here’s a printable template you can use to make a paper popper. Print it out, follow the instructions, and you’ll have a popper in no time!

History of Poppers

Although poppers may seem like a modern-day toy, they actually have a rich history that goes back centuries. For example, ancient Chinese toys called “bang snaps” consisted of small, sand-filled packets that exploded when thrown onto the ground.

In the United States, early versions of poppers date back to the 1890s and were made from small firecrackers wrapped in tissue paper.

Throughout history, the toy has popped up (pun intended) in various cultures in many different forms. For example, in Mexico, “palomitas de papel” (“paper doves”) are used during birthday parties, while in the Philippines, “bawang” flowers, or garlic bulbs, are used to create loud bangs.

Themed Poppers

One of the great things about making paper poppers is how easy it is to customize the design and create different themes. Here are some ideas for different popper designs that you can try:

– Christmas: Make a holiday-themed popper by using red and green paper and decorating it with snowflakes and trees.
– Valentine’s Day: Use pink and red paper to make a heart-shaped popper.
– Birthday Party: Create a festive popper by using bright-colored paper and adorning it with balloons and streamers.
– Halloween: Design a spooky popper using black and orange paper and add spiderwebs and bats.

Popper Games

Once you’ve made your paper popper, it’s time to play some games! Here are some fun ideas:

– Pop the Balloon: Inflate a balloon and try to pop it with the paper popper.
– Pop the Confetti: Fill the popper with confetti, then hold it over someone’s head and “pop” it to create a shower of confetti.
– Relay Race: Divide your group into teams, and have the first person in each team make a popper. Once they’ve finished, they can tag the next person in their team, who then makes their own popper, etc. The first team to finish popping their popper wins!
– Pop-Da-Colors: Use different colored sheets of paper to make the poppers. First, everyone chooses a color. Then simultaneously everyone makes his popper, and when ready, they will pop the poppers. The one with the least number of pops will have to pay the price.

Alternative Materials

While paper is the most common material used to make poppers, you can also use a variety of other materials to create these fun toys. Here are some ideas:

– Felt: Use sheets of felt to make a soft and fluffy popper.
– Fabric: Combine different types of fabric to make a tactile and decorative popper.
– Plastic: Make a reusable popper by using plastic sheets and adding a handle.

Conclusion

Poppers are a simple but enjoyable toy that have been around for centuries. Making a paper popper is easy and fun, and you can use it to play many exciting games. By following our step-by-step guide, you can customize your own popper and explore your creativity.