Children's literature has the unique ability to inspire creativity and bring magic into our daily lives. Maurice Sendak's "Where the Wild Things Are" is no exception, with its wild and wondrous characters and adventurous storyline that has captivated generations. In this blog post, we'll explore five enchanting DIY door decoration ideas inspired by the book to transform your door into a portal to a whimsical world, where imagination rules.
Incorporating Max’s Crown and Cape
Begin your journey into the wild with a tribute to Max, the young hero of the tale. Create a door decoration featuring his iconic crown and cape to set the theme.
- Materials Needed:
- White, black, and yellow felt
- Gold paint or fabric paint
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- Velcro strips
- Instructions:
- Cut out the shape of the crown from the yellow felt.
- Use black felt for details like stripes or other embellishments, and glue them onto the crown.
- Paint edges and decorations with gold paint for an extra touch of majesty.
- For the cape, cut out the shape from the white felt and glue or sew a piece of Velcro to secure it on the door.
- Attach the crown above the cape with more Velcro, ensuring it appears to rest on an imaginary head.
💡 Note: Make sure to use non-permanent adhesives if you're renting or have strict HOA guidelines.
A Forest of Wild Things Silhouettes
Transform your door into a gateway to the wild kingdom with silhouettes of the fearsome yet lovable creatures from the story.
- Materials:
- Black construction paper or cardboard
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Double-sided tape or glue
- Steps:
- Draw or print out silhouettes of the Wild Things and the forest background.
- Cut out the shapes carefully to ensure clean lines.
- Apply tape or glue to the back of each silhouette and place them on the door, arranging them to look as if they're peering out from the forest.
The Invitation Scene
Replicate the iconic moment when Max is invited to sail away to the land of Wild Things.
- Supplies:
- Blue and white paint or construction paper
- Paintbrush or glue
- Small model boat or a printed image of a boat
- Fish wire or string for rigging
- Process:
- Create a wavey background using blue paint or cut-out paper to simulate the ocean.
- Attach your model boat or a flat image of a boat using fishing wire or string to make it appear as if it's floating on the door.
- You can add small waves or fish from construction paper for added detail.
Wild Rumpus Celebration
Bring the excitement of the wild rumpus right to your door with festive elements.
- Materials:
- Colorful ribbons or streamers
- Paper lanterns
- Glitter or confetti
- Scissors
- Tape
- Steps:
- Hang colorful ribbons or streamers in wild, playful patterns to mimic the chaotic celebration.
- Attach paper lanterns or small lights to represent the festive mood.
- Sprinkle confetti around the door or use stencils and glitter to create patterns or images on the door itself.
Max’s Bedroom Escape
Give a nod to the transition from reality to fantasy by mimicking the bedroom scene where the adventure begins.
- Materials Needed:
- A flat piece of wood or foam board
- Paint (various colors)
- Small furniture items or paper cut-outs
- String lights or lanterns
- Instructions:
- Paint the board with a bedroom backdrop including Max's bed, wardrobe, and so on.
- Create an opening in the wardrobe with light and hints of the Wild Things peeking out to suggest Max's journey.
- Add small props or cut-outs to give a three-dimensional effect.
By weaving these DIY door decorations inspired by "Where the Wild Things Are," you're not just decorating a door; you're creating a portal to a world of adventure and imagination. Each idea not only captures the essence of the story but also invites interaction and play, making your doorway a passage to the land where the Wild Things are. These projects encourage creativity, are perfect for children's events or themed parties, and can become cherished traditions in your home.
Remember to let your imagination run wild as you tailor these ideas to your own creativity, style, and the resources available to you. Children's literature offers a rich source of inspiration, so don't hesitate to explore other favorite stories or characters for future door transformations. By doing so, you're fostering a love for reading, art, and play in the hearts of those who pass through your door.
What’s the easiest DIY project for beginners?
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The easiest project would be creating Max’s Crown and Cape. It involves simple cutting and gluing, with materials that are easy to find and work with.
Can these decorations be reused?
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Yes, most of the decorations can be made with durable materials like felt, cardboard, or foam board, making them reusable year after year. Just ensure to store them safely.
How long does it take to complete these projects?
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The time depends on the complexity and the individual’s crafting speed. Max’s Crown and Cape might take an hour, while the Bedroom Escape could require several hours or even a day for more intricate details.
