Making a Paper Mache Handprint

Making a paper mache handprint is a fun way to create a keepsake together with your child. You will both have fun making the paper mache mixture and you will have a nice reminder of your child's hand size when he or she was young. Here is a quick guide to making your own paper mache handprint with your children.

Making a paper mache handprint: Creating the mixture

Rip your egg cartons into one inch square pieces (about 12 cups worth). Put the torn pieces into a large bowl and fill it with water until all of the pieces are underwater. Leave this mixture to soak overnight, then drain the water out of the bowl. Using a blender, blend hot water and one or two cups of the soaked carton pieces to create a pulpy mixture. Pour this pulpy mixture into a strainer and drain the hot water out of it. Leave a little bit of moisture in it so that the mixture does not dry out completely. Repeat this process until you have blended and drained all of the egg carton pieces for your paper mache handprint.

Making a paper mache handprint: Adding the adhesive

To make the paper mache mixture sticky, mix in a half-cup to one full cup of plaster and a half-cup to one cup of non-toxic white glue. If you wish to add a natural pest and mold repellent, mix in a few drops of tea tree oil or clove oil or a teaspoon of household bleach. You may have to handle this step yourself if you are making the paper mache mixture for a small child. Using your hands, thoroughly mix all of the ingredients until you have a nice, sticky paste.

Making a paper mache handprint: Testing the paper mache mixture

Now it is time to test your paper mache mixture to make sure it will hold its shape when your child puts their hand in it. Use your hand to make a semi-deep impression in the pulp. If the shape remains in place and does not start to crack or collapse, your paper mache is ready to use. If the mixture cracks, it has become too dry and you should add a little bit of water and test it again. If the handprint shape collapses, the paper mache mixture is still too wet and needs to be drained more. Adding chalk to the mixture can help dry it out if you have already drained out all the water that you can.

Making a paper mache handprint: The handprint

Prepare the mold you will be using to make your child's paper mache handprint. Line a two-inch deep pan with plastic wrap, tucking the edges under the outside of the pan so there is no leakage. Pour your paper mache mixture into the pan, smoothing out the pulp so that it fills the entire surface of the pan. Allow your child to press their hand deep into the mixture and pull it straight out so the shape remains true. Set the pan in a cool dry place and let it dry for 12-36 hours. Once the paper mache mixture has become firm and dry, you can use the edges of the plastic wrap to pull the handprint mold out of the pan.