Does anyone know how to make paper mache?
"Paper Mache" encompasses a wide range of techniques. Some peopl use the "mashed paper" approach. They use a version "paper clay" to mold projects. I use the newspaper strip method. I think the easiest recipe to use is white flour and water. Just mix to the consistency of soup. Don’t do anything fancy. Just mix the two together. Crumple balls of paper. Get your hands really wet with the paste and apply strips of newspaper. It is a mistake to put the newspaper strips into the paste. You get air bubbles and globs of paste between layers which will inhibit drying. when dry, I then sculpt with the paper mache balls by cutting them up and reassembling with masking tape. My final "skin" is cloth dipped in white glue. You can get amazing results this way. Visit my site for examples. Check out my videos on Youtube.
Danmonsterman
www.GourmetPaperMache.com
I run a handicrafts workshop for adults with learning disabilities, and we make paper mache pots and bowels etc., By using PVA glue, watered down by half, Strips of paper, TORN, not cut, and big old brushes to paste everything into place. You need to make at least 5 layers, then leave to dry. You can make a paste of newspaper, by mixing small pieces of newspaper in a bowl of water, boiling in a microwave cooker, several times, and then mixing some PVA glue and water, mix into a paste, then leave to cool. Covered with clingfilm, till needed, IT TAKES PRACTICE to get your times right though!
