Anglo Saxon Helmet

Create your own stunning replica of the stunning Sutton Hoo helmet, which still intrigues archaeologists to this day with its impressive decoration. This iconic helmet is the perfect example of Anglo-Saxon metalwork. A king may have even worn it!

Anglo Saxon Helmet

Skill Level

Beginner. Adult supervision needed

Time to Make

2 hours

Adult Supervision Needed

Yes

How to Make

  • It takes 1 piece of A4 silver card and ½ a piece of gold card to make a mask
  1. Fold a piece of A4 silver card in half lengthways with the white (reverse) side facing out and the shiny side in the middle.
    Cut across the folded card to make 2 pieces; one piece measuring 14cm x 10.5cm edge and the other piece 16cm x 10.5cm.
  2. Make the helmet section of the mask from the smaller piece of folded card. Place the card vertically with the folded edge positioned down the left hand side. Draw a curve from the top left corner where the card folds to the opposite bottom corner. Keeping the card folded, cut out the shape. Open out the card so the silver side faces up.
  3. Make the face section of the mask from the remaining piece of folded card. Place the card vertically with the folded edge down the left hand side. Measure a point 8cm along the top edge then draw a curve down to the bottom fold. Draw a ‘U’ shape for the eye, make it 5cm wide, curving 5cm down from the top edge. Draw a mouth across the fold. Keeping the card folded, cut out the face with the eyes and mouth holes. Open out the card with the silver side facing up.
  4. Use the left over corners from the face section to cut 2 x side strips for the mask.
    Stick the top section to the face section with double-sided tape so the pieces slightly overlap. Stick the side strips so they hang down from the top section.
  5. Cut gold card strips for the middle of the helmet and the nose with curved pieces above the eyes and above the mouth. Stick the gold card in place with double-sided tape.
  6. Use the handle end of a small paintbrush (or a pointed plastic modelling tool) to make a decorative pattern over the mask. Press the brush firmly into the surface of the card to make clear lines, zigzags or curls.
  7. Decorate the helmet with silver or gold self-adhesive pearls, mosaic squares and gems. Outline the face and eyes with a gold deco pen.
Anglo Saxon Helmet Anglo Saxon Helmet Anglo Saxon Helmet

Top Tip

To display the mask on a wall, tape a loop of string on the back then hang it against a dark background so the shape stands out.

Tagged with: