How to Make Paper Mache Pulp

This article will teach you how to make basic paper mache pulp. Paper mache pulp can be shaped or modeled like clay then painted after it is dry. This is a very fun recipe to make and kids of all ages will enjoy making unusual figures with this paper mache pulp. You will need to buy paper mache paste for this recipe or you can use one of my recipes listed in the resource section of this article.

Step 1: Gather the following supplies to make paper mache pulp: old newspapers, a pail, warm water, electric mixer, paper mache paste (buy it or use one of my recipes in the resource section of this article), antiseptic mouthwash like Listerine.

Step 2: Tear the newspaper into fairly small pieces. If you have a paper shredder you can shred the newspaper to save a ton of time. Tear or shred enough paper to fill the pail. The pail can be any size. Use a small pail for a small batch of paper mache pulp or a 5 gallon bucket for a large batch of paper mache pulp. After you filled the pail with paper, dump the paper into any plastic bag like a grocery bag or trash bag.

Step 3: Fill the empty pail a few inches from the top with warm water. Start to drop the newspaper pieces into the water a bit at a time and stir with your hand so the pieces do not get all stuck together. Continue until all the newspaper is in the water. You can add more water if needed to make sure all the newspaper is soaking in water.

Step 4: Set the bucket aside and let it sit overnight. The next day, beat the soaked paper with an electric mixer until you have a smooth pulp. Strain out any excess water and squeeze the pulp with your hands until it is nearly dry.

Step 5: Add the paste of your choice (see recipes in the resource section of this article) a bit at a time and mix with your hands. Keep adding paste and mixing until the pulp has a clay like consistency. The amount of paste you need depends on how much paper you used. If you want to experiment with textures, you can add some sawdust or craft sand during this step.

Step 6: Add a bit of Listerine or any store brand of antiseptic mouthwash to your paper mache pulp and mix it in well. The Listerine will prevent mold from forming while your paper mache pulp creation is drying. A teaspoon of Listerine is enough for a small batch paper mache pulp. A tablespoon of Listerine is good for a large batch of paper mache pulp.

Step 7: Shape your paper mache pulp just as you would any modeling clay. Just remember that thicker works of art take longer to dry. After your creation is done, let it air dry for 3 to 5 days or even longer if necessary. If the project cracks during the drying process, you can fill the crack with a bit of paste and let it dry.

Step 8: Paint and decorate your creation after it is completely dry. You can also coat it with a layer of waterproof varnish if you want to make it waterproof.

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