Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is one of Mexico’s most vibrant and meaningful celebrations. Despite its name, this holiday is anything but gloomy; it’s a lively, colorful, and deeply cherished tradition that honors loved ones who have passed away. Every year, homes and altars come to life with papel picado banners, marigold flowers, candles, sugar skulls, and of course, the elegant and iconic La Catrina.
If this is your first time making Día de los Muertos decorations and you’re looking for creative yet easy craft ideas, you’re in the right place! In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make your very own DIY La Catrina using only crepe paper and an empty Coca-Cola bottle — or any recycled soda bottle you already have at home.
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This project is colorful, fun, and surprisingly simple to make. It’s the perfect addition to your ofrenda or home décor during the Day of the Dead celebration. You can personalize your La Catrina with different colors, accessories, or embellishments to match your theme or creative style.
What I love most about this recycled craft idea is that it’s budget-friendly and you won’t need fancy materials or expensive tools to make something beautiful and meaningful. Whether you’re crafting solo or with family, this easy crepe paper project is a wonderful way to celebrate the spirit and artistry of Día de los Muertos.
What You’ll Need for DIY La Catrina
How to Make La Catrina Using a Coca-Cola Bottle
Step 1: Paint the Bottle
Apply primer to the upper half of the empty Coca-Cola bottle and let it dry completely. Once dry, paint the primed area with your chosen color.Step 2: Prepare the Crepe Paper Skirt
Cut the crepe paper into a 5-inch-wide strip, then sew along the top edge using a running stitch. Gently pull the thread to gather the paper and make it look fuller. Create three sets in different colors and sizes for a layered effect.Step 3: Assemble the Crepe Paper Layers
Gently insert the prepared crepe paper pieces into the body of the Coca-Cola bottle, starting with the largest layer first.Step 4: Create the Crepe Paper Marigold
Cut several circles out of crepe paper and staple them together at the center. Then, cut small strips around the edges and gently gather them toward the middle to form marigold flowers. Make three in different colors and sizes.Step 5: Draw the La Catrina Body and Face
Sketch La Catrina’s body and face on cardboard or cardstock, then color it however you like. Alternatively, you can print a template from the internet. Once finished, carefully cut out the upper body shape.Step 6: Assemble the Marigolds on La Catrina
Hot glue one marigold onto the hands and another to the side of the head. Next, attach the La Catrina body to the upper part of the Coca-Cola bottle. Finally, hot-glue another marigold onto the crepe paper skirt for added design.
Materials
- Empty Coca-Cola Bottle
- La Catrina Template
- Scissors
- Hot Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
- Crepe Paper, assorted
- Acrylic Paint
- Primer Paint, optional
- Needle and Thread
- Stapler
💡 Pro Tip
To make your La Catrina stand out, use contrasting colors for the dress or add a hat, and add small details like lace trim, tiny flowers, or glitter to give it a more festive and traditional look.
💕 Why You’ll Love This Project
You’ll love how this La Catrina craft combines creativity, color, and sustainability! It’s a fun and meaningful way to celebrate Día de los Muertos, perfect for beginners, and totally customizable with your favorite colors and details. Plus, you’ll be amazed at how something so beautiful can be made from a simple recycled bottle and crepe paper!
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DIY La Catrina Using a Coca-Cola Bottle
