Gunpowder Plot Puppets

Create your own Guy Fawkes puppet along with other key characters to re-enact the dramatic story of the Gunpowder Plot. This engaging craft project is perfect for bringing history to life, whether for educational fun in the classroom or a lively Bonfire Night performance at home.

Skill Level

Beginner

Time to Make

1 hour

Adult Supervision

Yes

Gunpowder Plot Puppets

Top Tip

Try making more characters for a classroom project or performance by adding more plotters, guards and king’s courtiers.

How to Make

Step 1

Gunpowder Plot Puppets

To make a Guy Fawkes puppet, paint the top of the spoon in flesh coloured paint and leave it to dry standing in a cup or jar. To make the body, twist a sheet of newspaper (or use a plastic bag) into a long strip then wind it around the top of the spoon handle to make it into a wider shape. Stick masking tape around the newspaper to hold it in position.

Step 2

Gunpowder Plot Puppets

Cut a 10cm x 40cm tissue strip for the body covering. Lightly brush glue on the newspaper body, then wrap the tissue strip over it. For a lace collar, glue a small edge piece of a paper doily around the tip. Make a cloak from tissue paper, gluing and folding it around the body, then trim as needed. For hair, glue tissue strips to the sides of the spoon, adding smaller strips for a beard and mustache, leaving the top bare. Glue wiggly eyes halfway down the spoon, then draw facial details with felt pens.

Step 3

Gunpowder Plot Puppets

Cut a 4cm x 12cm strip of colored paper for the hat. Brush glue on top of the spoon, center the strip, and wrap it around the back, gluing the ends. For the brim, cut a 4cm x 8cm rectangle, trim it into an oval, and cut a slot in the middle to fit over the hat base. Adjust the slot if needed, then glue the brim in place. Add a thin paper band around the hat with a small card rectangle for a buckle.

Step 4

Gunpowder Plot Puppets

Make other characters in the same way using different coloured papers and tissue. Add gems, ribbon, feathers and threaded beads to embellish the King’s costume. Make the Guard’s helmet and armour from foil or mini foil pie cases brushed with black paint.