Tape together several pieces of old newspaper, edge to edge, and lay them out flat on a sturdy surface. Think about your yard art, and consider whether you want to make just one character or several. Pick something simple, like a rabbit or toad, that does not have slender protrusions or a lot of detail along its edges.
Draw one character for your yard art using chalk or a pencil. Draw in as many details as you like to get correct proportions, but pay close attention to the outline; it should be relatively smooth with few small crevices or complicated curls.
Use a permanent marker to darken the outline of your art piece. Cut along this darkened line, and glue the cutout to a piece of cardboard. The cardboard makes the pattern sturdy so you can use it over and over again.