Rama’s bow-shaped cardboard prop
Create a flat cardboard dhanush for a Ramayana storytelling corner, fancy-dress photograph or Dussehra classroom display.
- Easy with adult help
- About 35 min plus drying
- Use what you own; check local prices
- 6 steps
Create a flat cardboard dhanush for a Ramayana storytelling corner, fancy-dress photograph or Dussehra classroom display. This bow-shaped prop uses a drawn string and rounded edges, so the focus stays on painting and storytelling. Match its size to the display board rather than making a life-size costume accessory.
Keep ready
- Cardboard
- Pencil
- Safety scissors
- Paint
How to do it
- 1Sketch a small bow silhouette on card.
- 2Have an adult cut the outline and round the edges.
- 3Paint the flat shape and leave it to dry.
- 4Add a drawn string rather than tensioned cord.
- 5Use it as a photo prop without arrows or projectiles.
- 6Add a small label naming the story character and stand the prop against a display board; do not suspend it by a cord around a child’s neck.
Helpful tips 💡
- Keep this a flat decorative prop, not a working bow.
- Leave the string drawn on the card. Elastic turns a decorative shape into a working launcher; this project is designed without arrows, tensioned string or projectiles.
Plan ahead
Keep a cereal-box panel, pencil, ruler and washable colours ready. Sketch a roughly 25 cm outline first and ask an adult to handle cutting before children begin decorating.
Common questions
Can I add an elastic string to the cardboard bow?
Leave the string drawn on the card. Elastic turns a decorative shape into a working launcher; this project is designed without arrows, tensioned string or projectiles.
What should I prepare before making rama’s bow-shaped cardboard prop?
Keep a cereal-box panel, pencil, ruler and washable colours ready. Sketch a roughly 25 cm outline first and ask an adult to handle cutting before children begin decorating.