Paper mache

From WikiParenting

Paper mache is a fun, cheap craft activity for children and parents alike. Though time consuming it is very simple and the finished product can be turned into anything you want, great for creative imaginative play. Make your own Christmas decorations or a family of paper mache people - the ideas are endless once you get started.

What you will need

• Paste
• Lots of old newspaper
• Your chosen shape or form.

Paste recipe

You can either use regular craft clag glue mixed with water (1 part water with 2 parts glue or you can make a paste out of flour and water. Mix 2 parts water with 1 part flour until it becomes thick like glue, mix well ensuring there are no lumps and add a tablespoon of salt to the mix.

Shapes and moulds

It’s pretty open as to what shape you can choose to make but some simple ideas are:

• Balloons
• Cereal boxes
• Egg cartons
• Jars
• Milk bottles
• Toilet rolls (for arms and legs)
• Shoe boxes

Directions

• Prepare paste and get your chosen mould ready
• Tear newspaper into long strips
• Dip paper strips one at a time into paste (ensure to saturate the paper)
• Squeeze of excess paste with your fingers
• Stick paper on your mold and smooth gently
• Cover entire mould with paper strips making sure they are overlapping to prevent and missed spots
• Allow to dry for at least 15 hours depending on size
• Repeat this process as many times as you need but it is recommended to have at least 3-4 layers
• Decorate with just about anything or paint, color and display proudly.