How to make big-top beasties

Fun is where you find it, and -- let's face it -- sometimes that's in the trash! So it is with these big-top beasties made from cardboard tubes. Whether your crew goes for re-creating our three-ring trio or dreaming up their own wild things, here's how to get them into the act:

Cardboard circus

1. Gently flatten a cardboard tube to make it easier to cut. With scissors, trim the tube to shape, making a head, neck and four legs as desired (note that the elephant has short, thick legs, for example, while the giraffe has long, tapered ones).

2. Brush the critter with a base coat of tempera or acrylic paint. To make the face, cut features into the tube (as we did with the giraffe's snout), or use tacky glue to attach pieces made from painted tube scraps (as in the elephant) or a paper plate (as in the lion).

3. Add final touches, such as painted details, sequins, fringe, paper clips, pipe cleaner or buttons. For a tail, cut a slit in back and insert yarn with paint brushed on its end.

Decorate a spray can top to use as a stand.

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