Paste further strips of paper over the handles so that all the cardboard is covered and the handles join nicely with the bowl. Leave to dry.

Seal the bowl with two coats of white emulsion paint. Pencil on your design or pattern, then paint in your chosen colours. Outline shapes or patterns with a black line for a dramatic effect.

Finally, varnish to protect the bowl and to bring out the colours.

Some finished examples

Final words...

Good luck with your bowls. You will now be able to use this basic technique to make all sorts of other things and decorate them in your own way. You will probably notice several of my bowls dotted about the site. They are all different and show how the way you paint them can completely change their look.