How to Make a Stage Tumbleweed
Tumbleweeds are an iconic symbol of the Western United States. They represent the listlessness and wanderlust of the American experience. Any production with cowboys or dusty saloons needs a few tumbleweeds set around the edges for mood. "Oklahoma," for example, is a musical where tumbleweeds would be perfectly at home, or even "August: Osage County." With some wire and paint, quickly create some tumbleweeds that are well within the confines of almost any prop budget.
- Wire
- Wire cutters
- Pliers
- Brown paint
- Paintbrush
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Instructions
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1
Cut the wire into varying lengths. For a larger tumbleweed, cut many strands about two feet.
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2
Place the wires on a surface and organize them so the ends match up (but the lengths at the top can vary).
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3
Using the pliers, twist the ends together, forming a fan-like object.
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4
Shape the group of wire so it is rounded. Aim to make a ball, but a little more haphazard. Give your tumbleweed character.
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5
Once you have the form you like, paint the prop. Use a smaller paintbrush to reach hard-to-get-to areas. Let the paint dry.