Papier Mache ( Paper Mache) Basics

Papier Mache (also called paper mache) is the material used by combining glue and water or wallpaper paste with bits of absorbent paper, such as old newspaper, paper towels or tissue. Using this messy, but very fun art form can help you and your child create wonderful works of art. Just make sure that before you start that you have a covered and well-protected work surface and old clothes!

If you have never made papier mache, then you have missed out on all the ooey-gooey fun. This is a hands-on project and does take a little time and patience. However, once you are done, you will have something that is quite useable and unique. Here are some basic tips and easy projects to get you started in the world of papier mache.

There are two ways that you can make papier mache. The first involves using wallpaper paste and the other is using watered down glue. In either case, you will need to water down the paste or glue in a large plastic pan. You will need enough to cover the bottom of the pan (about ½ inch deep). Both ways work equally well. However, wallpaper paste probably holds a bit better than glue.

Now you will want to choose the type of paper you will use for your project. Any type of absorbent paper works well. This includes newspaper, tissue paper, paper towels, or paper napkins. Newspaper is probably the cheapest method, but if you want your project to be white for easier painting, then you might want to opt for plain white paper towels.

Before you get started on your project, think about what you want to make. Pinatas are very easy to make, as are small bowls and candle holders. You will need a base for your project. If you are making a piñata, a filled balloon is a good choice. You can also cover glass jars for candle holders, or if you want to make something else, you can use chicken wire to form the shape of your piece. Cardboard tubes work well for small animals, too. If you are making a bowl or a piñata, then you will want coat the base with cooking oil spray or petroleum jelly before you begin. This prevents sticking after the project is complete.

The easiest method for making papier mache items is to use strips of paper dipped into the glue mixture. You will start by mixing your glue in the pan. Then, you will want to tear strips of newspaper (or other type of paper) into the desired length. Dip your strips of paper into the glue mixture and run your fingers over the strip to remove the excess glue. Now you will start layering the strips on your base. Overlap the layers going in different direction. Depending on what you are making will depend on how many layers you will need. Generally, three or four layers will be enough for most projects. If you have more layers than this, it is a good idea to let those layers dry before adding new ones.

After you have finished layering the newspaper, you can add one layer of white paper towel to give it a white finish. This will also help the finished piece have a smoother texture. Place the piece in a dry, warm place to dry. It is recommended that you allow papier mache items to air dry, as heat can make the paper buckle or warp.

When the piece is dry, you are ready to paint it. If the finished layer is not smooth, you can lightly sand the finished piece before painting. You can paint your piece using acrylic paint, followed by a clear coat varnish to help keep it protected.

Easy Papier Mache Projects:

Candleholder:

This project looks very nice when you use layers of torn tissue paper in bright colors. Cover a glass jar with small pieces of tissue paper in your choice of colors using the method above. You will not a lot of layers because you want the jar to remain translucent to allow the candlelight to shine through. Let the jar dry and apply a clear varnish coat to the outside. Place a tea light candle inside.

Bowl:

Use an inexpensive plastic bowl as a base for this project. Cover the outside of the bowl with cooking spray oil or petroleum jelly. Turn the bowl upside down on a covered work surface. Use the strip papier mache method to cover the outside of the bowl with several layers of newspaper. Allow to dry. When the project is completely dry, remove the plastic bowl and sand and paint your project.

Pinata:

Pinatas are often used at children's birthday parties, and when you buy them, they can be quite expensive. You can make your own using a balloon and some cardboard tubes to form the legs of the animal.

For the body, blow up a large balloon and coat with oil. Cover with about three layers of newspaper strips and allow to dry. When this is dried, you can insert a long needle to pop the balloon. Now you can begin to create the features of the piñata animal. Use cardboard tubes for the legs and another smaller balloon for the head. Cover these pieces with papier mache and allow them to dry.

When the entire project is dry, cut a flap in the back so that you can insert candy or other prizes. Now comes the fun part. Decorate your piñata. You can paint it or cover it with long strips of colorful streamers and ribbon. Now your piñata is ready for the party.