Paper mache is a simple and fun crafting technique that uses paper strips and a paste to create sturdy, moldable objects. The process involves making a paste and then using it to layer strips of paper over a form or structure.
What is Paper Mache?
Paper mache (or papier-mâché) 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. Once dried, it hardens and can be painted or decorated.
How to Make Paper Mache Paste
A common and effective paste can be made from simple household ingredients like flour and water. Here’s a method based on traditional techniques:
Paste Ingredients:
- Flour
- Cold Water
- Boiling Water (2 cups)
- Sugar (optional, often added to help prevent mold)
Instructions for Making Paste:
- In a bowl, combine flour and cold water to create a smooth, lump-free mixture. The consistency should be like thick cream.
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the flour and cold water mixture gradually to the boiling water, stirring constantly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil again, continuing to stir.
- Once it reaches a boil again, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Stir in sugar at this point, if using.
- Let the paste cool. As it cools, it will thicken.
- Once it thickens and cools, it is ready to use for your paper mache project.
You can see these steps reflected in traditional recipes found online.
Applying Paper Mache
Once your paste is ready, you can begin the application process. You'll need a form or object to build upon, such as a balloon, cardboard shape, or wire armature, and paper, commonly newspaper.
Materials:
- Prepared Paper Mache Paste
- Paper (Newspaper, torn or cut into strips)
- A form or object to cover
- Optional: Old clothes, plastic sheeting to protect work area
Application Steps:
- Prepare your paper by tearing or cutting it into strips or small pieces. Strips are often easier to handle for covering larger or curved surfaces.
- Protect your workspace with plastic sheeting or newspaper.
- Dip newspaper strips in the paper mache paste.
- Take off excess paste by gently running the strip between your fingers. You want the paper saturated but not dripping.
- Lay the paste-covered paper strip onto your form, smoothing it down to remove air bubbles and wrinkles.
- Overlap the strips slightly as you cover the form. Applying layers in different directions (e.g., crisscrossing) adds strength.
- Continue adding layers until you achieve the desired thickness and strength for your project. Typically, 2-4 layers are sufficient for basic objects, but more layers will create a stronger piece.
- Allow the paper mache to dry completely between layers or before painting. Drying time varies greatly depending on the thickness of the layers and humidity, often taking 24 hours or more.
Tips for Success
- Use different types of paper: While newspaper is common, you can use other papers like brown paper bags or craft paper for different textures and strengths. Avoid glossy paper, as it doesn't absorb the paste well.
- Tear paper instead of cutting: Tearing creates softer edges that blend better and are less noticeable when dry.
- Ensure complete drying: Rushing the drying process can lead to mold or a weak structure. Place the project in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area.
- Smooth as you go: Take the time to smooth each strip as you apply it to reduce sanding later and ensure good adhesion.
- Add a final layer: Some people like to add a final layer of plain paper (like white paper towels) to create a smooth, uniform surface that is easier to paint.
By following these steps for making the paste and applying the paper, you can create a wide variety of paper mache projects.
