Making paper mache involves creating a simple paste and applying it with paper to form shapes.
Simple Paper Mache Paste Recipe & Application
Creating the paste for paper mache is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. The process typically involves mixing flour and water to a specific consistency and then applying this paste with strips of paper onto a form or object.
Ingredients and Preparation
Based on the provided reference, here's how to prepare the paste:
- Mix the Paste: In a large bowl, combine 1 mug of sifted flour with 1 mug of warm water. Stir until the mixture is smooth and resembles a batter, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Prevent Mold: Add a pinch of salt to the paste mixture. This helps prevent the paste from developing mold.
Setting Up Your Workspace
Paper mache can be messy, so preparing your work area is crucial.
- Protect Surfaces: Lay down newspaper or a plastic mat to cover your work surface before you begin applying the paper mache.
The Application Process
Once your paste is ready and your area is protected, you can begin applying the paper mache. While the reference doesn't specify the type of paper, newspaper strips or plain paper torn into pieces are commonly used. Dip the paper strips into the paste, wiping off excess, and apply them smoothly to the object you are covering.
- Layering: Apply strips of paper soaked in the paste onto your desired form.
- Repeat: Continue applying layers of paste-soaked paper. Repeat this process until the object or form is fully covered with the desired thickness of paper mache layers.
This simple method creates a hardened shell as the layers dry, allowing you to create various crafts and sculptures.
