How to Make a Paper MJ Hat

Michael Jackson was not only the "King of Pop," he was also a fashion icon. Jackson was known for his lone sequined glove, military jackets and fedoras. Jackson sported fedoras in music videos such as "Smooth Criminal" and "You Rock My World," as well as at award shows and concerts. Make your own fedora out of paper for a Michael Jackson costume, MJ-themed birthday party or a "Michael Jackson The Experience" video game night.

Making a paper MJ hat is simple and requires only a newspaper, scissors, glue and the ability to fold. This is a project you can do with young children. Fold a newspaper in half with an inch exposed at the bottom. Fold down the corners to make a triangle and leave another inch exposed. Fold the inch under the triangle up. Fold the bottom inch up on the other side. This makes the hat's brim. Trim the brim so that it is even on both sides and then glue it down. Simply pull the hat open and it is done.

Another way to make a fedora is with scrap paper and cardboard. This project requires a few more materials, but makes a sturdier hat. Gather together cardboard, paper, tape, scissors and cornstarch. First, cut an oval piece for the brim of the hat. Cut a hole in the center and then cut small wedges along the inside like teeth. Cut a small top piece with 11 wedges fanning out around it. Use templates for these pieces. Fold the wedges down. Connect them to the teeth and tape together. Cover the hat with papier-mache, using cornstarch and water to make a paste.

Michael Jackson died June 25, 2009, at the age of 50 (Dr. Conrad Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in his death in November 2011). Since his death, fans have honored Jackson with tribute parties on the anniversary of his death and his birthday, Aug. 29, and on their own birthdays and at other events. Paper hats can be a party favor or used for a game, but there are other MJ party items as well. An edible cake topper is an easy way to make an MJ cake. Bake cookies and use a glove- or hand-shaped cookie cutter, then add sprinkles to mimic sequins. Order MJ party decorations online and stock up on MJ videos and music.

Michael Jackson may not have been the first star to wear a fedora, but he did help bring the fedora back. Fedoras became popular in the early 1900s although the name "fedora" originated from a play performed in the 1800s in Paris. The popularity of wearing fedoras faded by the 1960s when men stopped wearing hats as a general rule as part of their usual attire. In the 1980s, Michael Jackson made fedoras popular again. He wore black and white fedoras, both of which are seen on men and women today.