How to Build a 4‑Foot Conical Volcano for a Parade Float

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By Erin Moseley | Updated Mar 24, 2022

Martin Puddy/Stone/GettyImages

A 4‑foot tall conical volcano can serve as a dramatic centerpiece for your parade float. Building a float‑sized volcano is a hands‑on project that demands careful timing and attention to detail. Allow at least 24 hours of drying time between each papier‑mache layer, and between the final painting and the landscaping stage. Elevating the volcano on a pedestal not only makes it more visible to spectators but also adds a dynamic visual element to the float. (The actual eruption effect is a separate, more complex project.)

Step 1 – Build the Wire Frame

Cut a 3‑yard long, 4½‑foot wide sheet of chicken wire. This will serve as the skeletal framework for a 4‑foot conical volcano.

Step 2 – Shape the Volcano Mouth

Score a 6‑inch diameter hole in the center of the wire sheet. From that center point, cut eight equally spaced 6‑inch straight lines. Fold back the excess wire to shape the mouth, then use scissors to crimp the wire into the sheet for a clean edge.

Step 3 – Form the Cone

Wrap the remaining wire around the base to shape a cone. Fold the excess mesh underneath the base and crimp it into the inner sides to secure the structure.

Step 4 – Attach Brown Paper

Choose brown paper slightly stiffer than a grocery bag. Tear 12‑inch wide sheets, crumple them first to create a rugged texture, then attach them to the wire frame by threading 1‑inch strips through the mesh.

Step 5 – Cut Newspaper Strips

Tear approximately 600 one‑inch wide newspaper strips.

Step 6 – Prepare the Papier‑Mache Mixture

In a large bowl, mix one part flour to two parts water by hand. The consistency should resemble white school glue—smooth, not runny, and not overly thick. Adjust with additional flour or water as needed and whisk to remove lumps.

Step 7 – Coat the Newspaper Strips

Dip each newspaper strip into the flour mixture, ensuring it is wet but not dripping. Gently squeeze out excess by running the strip between your forefinger and middle finger.

Step 8 – Apply the Papier‑Mache

Begin at the volcano’s mouth, inserting the strip about 4 inches inside the opening. Press the strip into place over the crumpled paper, then layer additional strips in an overlapping fashion to cover the entire top portion. Continue covering all exposed areas, overlapping each layer. Allow the first layer to dry overnight; use a fan if needed to expedite drying.

Step 9 – Repeat for Three Layers

Repeat the coating and layering process two more times, allowing at least one day of drying time between each layer to ensure structural integrity.

Step 10 – Add Texture, Paint, and Final Placement

Apply small pebbles or crushed stone to the surface for a realistic texture. Paint bright red lava flows or a design that complements your float’s theme. Once the volcano is fully dry and painted, place it on the float’s pedestal. Add dirt, tree branches, and other landscaping elements around the base to complete the scene.