To make paper mache with glue, the simplest method involves mixing PVA craft glue with water to create a paste, then dipping paper strips into this mixture and applying them to a form.
Creating the paste is the first crucial step. The process is straightforward and requires just two common ingredients: PVA glue and water.
Ingredients and Ratio
Based on reliable methods, you will need:
- PVA Craft Glue: Also known as white school glue or Elmer's glue (in some regions). This glue is non-toxic and dries clear, making it ideal for paper mache.
- Water: To dilute the glue and make it a workable consistency.
According to the reference, the recommended ratio for your paper mache paste is:
- Mix 1 part PVA craft glue with 2 parts water to make your paper mache paste.
This means if you use one cup of glue, you'll add two cups of water. You can adjust the quantities based on the size of your project, maintaining this 1:2 glue-to-water ratio.
Mixing the Paste
Follow these steps to prepare your glue paste:
- Choose a container for mixing your paste. An old bowl or plastic container works well.
- Measure the desired amount of PVA craft glue into the container.
- Measure double the amount of water (according to the 1 part glue to 2 parts water ratio).
- Pour the water into the container with the glue.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly until it is smooth and free of lumps. A whisk or a spoon can be used. The consistency should be similar to thin pancake batter or thick soup – thin enough to soak paper easily but thick enough to adhere.
Applying the Paper Mache
Once your paste is ready, you can start the paper mache process:
- Prepare your paper: Tear newspaper, plain paper, or craft paper into strips. Avoid cutting as torn edges blend better.
- Prepare your form: Protect your workspace and the form you'll be covering (like a balloon, cardboard shape, or wire armature) with plastic wrap or petroleum jelly to prevent the paper mache from sticking permanently.
- Dip the paper strips: Dip a paper strip into the glue-water paste, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Remove excess paste: Gently run the paper strip between your fingers to wipe off any excess paste. The strip should be wet but not dripping.
- Apply to the form: Smooth the paste-coated paper strip onto your form, overlapping strips slightly.
- Build layers: Continue adding layers of paper strips until you achieve the desired thickness and strength for your project. Allow each layer to dry partially if needed for stability before adding the next, although often multiple layers are applied wet-on-wet.
- Dry completely: Once all layers are applied, let the project dry completely. This can take 24 hours or more depending on the thickness and humidity.
Tips for Success
- Use different types of paper for different textures or strengths.
- For a smoother finish, use lighter paper or a final layer of plain white paper.
- Ensure adequate drying time between layers for stronger results, especially for complex shapes.
By following these simple steps and using the recommended ratio of glue to water, you can easily make and use paper mache for a variety of craft projects.
