Paper Dresses

Not only are these disposable dress designs simple to make, but also they also cost little more than the price of paper and tape.

First, make a basic shift-style dress pattern. Spread open a full newspaper sheet and refold it in half horizontally. Turn the sheet so the fold is on the right, then cut a U-shaped armhole in the upper left corner. Spread the sheet open again and cut out a U- or V-shaped neckline in the center of the top edge. (This will form shoulder straps between the armholes.) Hold up the pattern in front of your child and trim the paper where necessary for a better fit.

Next, trace around the pattern onto two pieces of heavyweight butcher paper. Extend the length to suit your child's height, if necessary. Cut out both pieces and tape together the shoulder and side seams. Your child can then decorate the dress with sponge-painted designs, colored-tape stripes and craft paper buttons.