by Kimberly Smith

Created on: March 25, 2009   Last Updated: March 29, 2009

Paper Mache can be used to make everything from ornaments and decorations to science project models and party masks. It is very simple to make using the recipe and once you work with the material a few times you will begin to be a pro. Using paper Mache saves you money and reuses paper products, so it is a recycling idea as well as a craft project.

To make the glue that holds all the paper together you will need flour and water. In a large container that will be big enough to dip strips of paper in, you will mix 3 parts water to 1 part flour. You want to keep mixing until you have a very smooth consistence, like that of store bought glue. Now you need paper. Old newspapers make the best paper Mache, but other paper can be used.

I do not recommend that you use glossy print papers, because these do not absorb the glue and become saturated the way that is necessary to make the paper Mache. You can rip the paper into strips or use a paper shredder but I would not suggest that you cut the paper with scissors. The uneven edges make it easier to absorb the glue and piece together with other paper. Take each piece of paper and dip it into the glue solution. You want to paper to be completely covered and saturated with the glue. It is necessary that it becomes wet and limp so that it will adhere to the mold or form you may be using, as well as to the other pieces of paper.

You can use a form to assist you in getting started with a shape. It can be as simple as an inflated balloon, or a metal coat hanger that has been bent to the desired shape. Once you work with paper Mache a few times you will become familiar with forms and molds that work for different shapes.

As you layer the glue saturated paper onto the form you should allow each new layer to dry before continuing with the next layer. The paper Mache dries relatively quickly and it is important that each layer is dried properly so that the next layer will adhere to the top layer.

Once the entire project is complete and dry you can begin to paint and decorate it any way that you would like. Be creative and use regular water colors to paint the paper Mache. If you are using a light color of paint, it may take a few coats to cover the newspaper print underneath.

So the next time your child has a school project that requires a model, or you want a piata for a party, you can make them yourself. Using the paper Mache recipe here and some imagination you can make just about anything from paper Mache.

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