DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop

3 min read September 13, 2026 Natalie Mayhew
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If you love BIG fun then you'll appreciate this oversized DIY Superhero Cityscape made from masking tape. Not only is it unique and modern but it's also easy to create and is a budget-friendly party decor solution! Now for the big question......are you a Marvel or DC Comics fan? No matter which superhero universe is your favorite, this big and bold cityscape will fit the theme perfectly.

 

Project Time
40 to 50 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Step
1

First, using black masking tape, create 5 long rectangles of varying heights.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 1
Step
2

Next, use smaller strips of masking tape to create building tops on one or two of the buildings. Multiple horizontal strips can be added to create a tiered building top.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 2 part 1
DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 2 part 2
Step
3

Create windows on the buildings. For one, space out full length vertical masking strips and cross them with spaced out horizontal strips. For another, fill the entire building with black masking tape with the exception of small squares/windows at the top.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 3
Step
4

Create different window types in the remaining buildings using small strips of masking tape. Continue the pattern on each building down to meet the table.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 4
Step
5

Next, use a hole punch or a hammer and nail to add holes to 2 points of a DIY Unfinished Wood Star Shape.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 5
Step
6

Next, paint half (or all) of the star red. Let dry. Thread the finished stars onto Red Baker's Twine alternating with DIY Unfinished Wood Round Beads to create a garland.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 6
Step
7

Paint a Black Happy Birthday Banner bright red.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 7
Step
8

Remove a selection of Fabulous Foam Star Glitter Shapes and add these to points inside and outside the cityscape.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 8
Step
9

Next, cut out several POWs, BAMs and WHAMs from a Comic Superhero Cellophane Bag. Glue these onto Black & White Speech Bubble Bulletin Board Cutouts using a glue stick.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 9
Step
10

Fill some star and Red Round Mylar Balloons with helium then cut out lightning bolts in yellow vinyl and adhere to the balloons. Once complete, tie the balloons to Red Baker's Twine and secure to balloon weights. Tip: Multiple lightning bolt shapes are available in cutting machine libraries and/or google image search to use as a template.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 10
Step
11

Hang the garland across the front of the buildings and hang the happy birthday banner under the stars.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 11
Step
12

Complete the cityscape by using glue dots to attach the finished speech bubbles to the cityscape. All you need now are your little superheroes to protect the city! For more ideas and inspiration, be sure to check out the Superhero Comic Book Party.

DIY Superhero Cityscape Backdrop step 12

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