Use real apples to create creepy faces for Halloween, pirates, or just to make silly faces. Peel apples, then use a knife to cut out eyes and define noses, chins and cheekbones. For well-defined features, cut deep holes and prominent features. Bake apples for three hours on the lowest temperature setting the oven allows. Let them sit for at least three days in a warm, dry place. Press beans in the eye sockets for eyes and rice in the mouth for teeth. Use yarn, fabric swatches or craft beads to accessorize and create hair, hats or earrings.
Cut an apple in half and remove seeds. Dry the apple with a paper towel. Brush flat side with any color paint then press onto a piece of card stock or construction paper. For a more defined look, paint the flat part of the apple white, then trace the edge of the apple with red or green paint and use brown on the stem. Print seeds by poking them with a pin, dipping them in paint, and pressing onto the paper.
Create an apple template from card stock or print one at DLTK.com. For younger children, trace and cut the apple ahead of time. Older children can trace and cut their own apples. Use a hole punch to punch holes around the perimeter of the apple about 1 inch apart. Use red or green yarn to weave in and out of the holes. Secure with a bow where the yarn starts and ends. To make an apple pocket just use two apples and weave them together, leaving the top open.
Create a papier-mache apple to be used as a pencil holder. You need a balloon, papier-mache paste, strips of newspaper, strips of white paper, red paint, and green construction paper. Ensure a round apple by blowing up the balloon all the way first then letting all the air out and finally blowing it up to the desired size. Cover with two to four layers of newspaper strips dipped in papier-mache paste, leaving the tied part of the balloon uncovered, and let dry for at least 24 hours. Cover again with two to four layers of white paper, which will be easier to paint. Allow to dry again for 24 hours. Pop the balloon, paint, and add the finishing touches like the stem and leaves with construction paper.