Step 1 - Trailer

• Secure a flatbed trailer.
• Secure a vehicle to tow your float.

Step 2 - Float Base

• Measure the chicken wire to cover each side of the flatbed.  These pieces will eventually be used to make a drape around the flatbed (good for advertising your organization or your sponsors).
• Fasten the chicken wire to the edge of the flatbed with nails or staple gun.

Step 3 - Float Base

• Cut newspapers into 6" x 6" squares or into long strips.
• Blend flour and water together to make paper mache material.
• Dip newspaper pieces into paper mache and paste onto chicken wire in 2-3 layers.
• Allow it to dry, then spray paint and decorate.

Step 4 - Stuff on the Float

• Build the frame(s) of the objects(s) you want to be on the float (use wood, chicken wire, etc).
• Attach chicken wire to “fill out" object or to add detail.
• You can use cloth, paper mache, paint or streamers to decorate frame.
• Make sure the frame is securely fastened to the base of the flatbed.

Step 5 - More stuff on the Float

• Decorate and “fill out" the rest of the float.  Fill it with spirited people.

Tips

• Build a frame of an object or a design with wood, then elaborate using chicken wire.  Use paper mache to cover the chicken wire, then spray paint or otherwise decorate the paper mache with your design or logos.
• Use Streamers or chicken wire to decorate the edges of the flatbed.
• Use balloons, but not too many.  A balloon arch can look good.
• Use original decorations (i.e., umbrellas, music, movement, etc.).