Paper Mache Checklist

Items You'll Need:
Newspaper, or paper bags, cut into stripsAmount will vary depending on what you are making.
Homemade Paper Mache Paste or Store-Bought Paper Mache Glue.
Base FormThis can be anything from styrofoam balls, cardboard boxes, or something with an interesting shape.
Wide Paint Brushes (optional, for the paper mache).
Poster Paints and Paint Brushes.
Optional Decorative Accents such as beads, feathers, or sequins.
Glue (for decorative accents).
Paper Mache Paste Ingredients
Mix 1 part flour with 5 parts water.
Stir in a pot, bring to a rolling boil.
Boil mixture for 3-4 minutes.
Add 3 tspns salt (as a mold deterrent).
Stir until Smooth.
Cool completely before using.
Set Up
Cover a worktable with a plastic mat.
Put on a smock or other workclothes.
Transfer paper mache glue to a large bowl.
Have your base form, paper strips ready to work with.
Working with Paper-Mache
Using one strip of paper at a time, dip the ;paper ;into the glue to get it completele saturated.
Remove the excess glue with your fingers.
Place the strip on your base form, using your fingers to smooth it over;Be gentle so as to avoid tearing the paper.
Repeat the first 3 steps, adding more glue-soaked strips to your form
Continue the process, overlapping the strips as you work, until the form is completely covered.
When finished, set aside and let dry for 24 hours.
Repeat the process at least twice, ensuring you have a minimum of three layers papering your form.
Allow each layer to dry for 24 hours before applying the next layer.
Continue the process until desired thickness is ;achievedAllow 24 hours to dry completely.
When piece is completely dry, paint with poster paints.
Allow paint to dry completely before applying any decorative accents.

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Looking for an easy craft the whole family can enjoy? Get crafty with our Paper Mache Checklist and see why this art form is popular, practical, and fun!