Papier-mâché, or what’s more commonly searched for as paper mache is a composite material consisting of paper pieces or pulp, sometimes reinforced with textiles bound with an adhesive, such as glue, starch or wallpaper paste.
You can use paper mache to create astounding works of art depending on your level of creativity. Using these step-by-step directions, discover how easy it is to create amazing paper mache works of art.
Materials You Need To Get Started
- Paper mache form
- Paper mache paste
- Newspaper
- Paint
Directions
- There are many things you can create with a paper mache so you need to first decide what you want to make. When you know what you want to make, then create the base or form for your project.
- Make the last layer of mache with white computer paper or paper towel so that painting is easier. It takes far less paint.
- Once your base is ready, you should prepare your paste. When your base and glue is ready, you will need to tear newspaper into strips.
- Depending on the type of project you have in mind, the length of your strips may vary.
- Dip your shredded newspaper once at a time into the paper mache paste ensuring that each newspaper strip is well saturated.
- Hold the saturated strip over the paste bowl and run it through your fingers to squeeze off any excess paste.
- Stick the newspaper strip over your form and smooth it down with your fingers.
- Completely cover your form with a layer of the saturated newspaper strips. They should all be over-lapping and running in different directions.
- After your first layer has been applied, leave to dry completely. Be patient as it can take up to 24 hours to dry completely.
- Once the first layer is dry, apply a second layer of newspaper strips and let it dry completely.
- Continue to repeat this process until you achieve the desired result.
- Once all of the paper mache layers are applied and dried, you are ready to paint, decorate, and proudly display your work of art.
