Float Making 101 

Students in Mrs. Mika's Language Arts class were wowed by Maggie Bell's demonstration of how to build a life size novel character for floats they are making. Maggie selected the ever popular Harry Potter for her demonstration. Students are preparing for their Novel Parade which will feature moving floats that promote characters from their favorite novel.

Maggie showed students how they could construct a lifesize Harry Potter from a few pieces of PVC pipe, some foam, children's clothes and few accessories.

First, build your base using PVC pipe.

Next add on the legs. Foam tubes were used to give Harry some padding.

Once the legs and torso are constructed, Harry gets a pair of pants.

Arms and more padding are added to construct the upper body.

The head is constructed from a foam manaquin head with plastic molding clay added to form the nose, cheeks and chin. Eyes can be painted on or special plastic eyeballs can be glued on. Some ears, a wig and clothes complete the character.

Add a scarf, hat, glasses and suddenly - Harry Potter is standing in the classroom!

Maggie then shows the class a variety of ways to mobilize Harry. They can put wheels on a crate and pull it along the parade route or use a remote control car and drive the float from a distance.

After the demonstration, the students dove into their float making with enthusiasm!

Thanks Maggie! Your demonstration was inspiring!