Materials needed:
- Cardboard boxes
- Scissors or a box cutter
- Green paint
- Paintbrush or spray paint
- Yellow or brown paper for bananas
- Glue
- Brown or black marker
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cardboard:
- Begin by cutting two large rectangular pieces from the cardboard boxes. These will serve as the leaves of the banana tree.
2. Create the leaves:
- Fold one of the rectangular pieces in half lengthwise to form the central vein of the leaf.
- Cut out a leaf shape from the folded cardboard, ensuring the fold forms the central vein.
- Repeat this process for the other rectangular piece to create two large banana leaves.
3. Paint the leaves:
- Paint both sides of the banana leaves green. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly before proceeding.
4. Make the bananas:
- Cut out several long, thin rectangular pieces of paper in either yellow or brown. These will be your bananas.
- Fold each rectangular piece in half lengthwise, then roll it to create the cylindrical shape of the banana.
- Secure the rolled paper with glue to keep the banana shape intact.
5. Attach the bananas to the tree:
- Use glue to attach the bananas to the leaves, positioning them at various heights.
6. Add details:
- Use a brown or black marker to draw lines on the banana leaves to create a realistic effect.
- You can also add additional leaves or bananas to create a fuller-looking tree.
7. Assemble the tree:
- Lay one of the banana leaves flat on a surface, with the vein side facing down.
- Prop up the other leaf behind it, slightly overlapping the first leaf, so that the two create an arching effect.
- Secure the leaves together with glue or tape at the base.
Your banana tree is now complete! You can display it in your living room, patio, or at your next tropical-themed event. Enjoy!