Paper gum that actually blows up

I've been absolutely obsessed with paper squishies lately, and nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own! If you're like me and searching for a fun, creative, and super squishy project, then diving into DIY paper gum squishies is definitely for you. Especially if you're looking for an 'extra gum paper squishy template' or just any awesome gum squishy design, this guide will help you craft one that truly stands out – like a classic 'Bubble Yum' wrapper! Making a paper squishy is not only incredibly affordable, using mostly household items, but it's also a fantastic way to destress and engage your creativity. The best part? The squishy sound and feel can be wonderfully therapeutic, making it an excellent source of DIY ASMR. Let's get started on creating your very own gum-themed paper squishy. Materials You'll Need: Paper: Any kind will do, but cardstock or slightly thicker paper works best for durability. Pencils/Erasers: For sketching your design. Markers, Colored Pencils, or Crayons: To bring your gum wrapper to life with vibrant colors. Scissors: For cutting out your design. Clear Packaging Tape or Scotch Tape: Lots of it! This seals and protects your squishy. Stuffing Material: Plastic grocery bags (crush them for that crinkly ASMR sound!), cotton balls, poly-fill, or even old clothes cut into tiny pieces. Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Paper Gum Squishy: Step 1: Design Your Gum Wrapper! This is where the magic happens. Think about your favorite gum brand – for me, it was that iconic 'Bubble Yum' look! Grab your paper and sketch out the front and back of your desired gum wrapper. Remember to include key details you'd find on a real package. For a 'Bubble Yum' squishy, I made sure to draw the distinctive logo, the fun phrase 'Blow Your Own Bubble!', and even the 'Original' flavor text, just like a real retro wrapper. Don't worry about perfection; the charm of DIY is in its unique touches. You can even trace an actual gum wrapper if you want a perfect 'extra gum' shape to start with, then customize the details. Step 2: Color and Detail Your Design. Now, bring out your colors! Make your gum wrapper design pop. Use bright pinks for the Bubble Yum, or whatever colors fit your chosen gum brand. Pay attention to shading and small details to make it look as realistic as possible. This step really makes your squishy visually appealing. Step 3: Cut It Out. Carefully cut out your wrapper design. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges of your drawing – about half an inch. This border will be crucial for taping the squishy together later, so don't cut too close to your art! Step 4: Laminate with Tape (Optional but Recommended). To make your squishy more durable and give it a glossy finish, completely cover both sides of your paper design with clear packaging tape. Overlap the tape slightly to ensure full coverage. This step protects your colors and makes the squishy feel smoother. Step 5: Tape It Up (Part 1). Fold your paper wrapper in half (if you drew a front and back) or align your two separate pieces. Take your tape and seal three of the four edges together. Make sure to press down firmly to avoid any gaps. You're creating a pocket for the stuffing. Step 6: Stuff It! Now for the squishy part! Begin stuffing your paper pocket with your chosen material. If you're using plastic bags, crumple them up into various sizes to create different textures and sounds within the squishy. For a softer, slower-rising squishy, use poly-fill or cotton. Don't overstuff it, or it won't be squishy; leave a little room for it to compress. Step 7: Seal It Up (Part 2). Once your squishy is stuffed to your liking, tape up the remaining open edge. Double-check all seams to ensure they are completely sealed. You don't want your stuffing escaping! Tips for the Best Paper Squishy: Double Layer Tape: For extra durability and a smoother feel, you can add a second layer of tape over all the seams, or even over the entire squishy after it's assembled. Experiment with Stuffing: The type and amount of stuffing dramatically affect the squishiness. Play around until you find your perfect squish! Be Patient: Take your time with the cutting and taping. A little extra care goes a long way in the final look and feel of your squishy. And there you have it! Your very own DIY paper gum squishy, ready for endless squishing fun. Whether you made an 'extra gum paper squishy template' or a vibrant 'Bubble Yum' version like mine, these handmade toys are incredibly satisfying and a testament to your creativity. Happy squishing!