Paper-Mache (or Papier-Mâché if you want to get fancy) is one of my all time favourite mediums to make things with. It's super inexpensive and makes for lots of messy fun!
There are two main techniques when it comes to paper-mache. One, make the paste of glue, water and flour, dip strips of paper in the paste then layer the paste covered paper over a base. Two, make a paper-mache clay then spread the clay over a base. I like the strip method for big projects and clay method for small things.
My favourite thing to make is pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. I could tell you everything I know about making large paper mache pumpkins and it would never even come close to a snippet of what Scott Stoll knows. He is hands down, the paper-mache pumpkin master.
So let me just go on ahead and direct you right over to
This link will give you all of the step by step instructions.
All you really need is newspaper or butcher paper, flour, pva glue, a trash bag, masking tape and some string then you will be on your way to making big Jack O' Lanterns.
Be careful, it's addictive. My pumpkins kept multiplying. I couldn't stop making more and more and then went down a Rabbit Hole and made a bunch of Alice in Wonderland sculptures but, I digress!!
I made the big Jack O Lantern head pictured above about 7 years ago and he's still kicking.
A few of my pumpkins became a nighttime snack for some rodent type critter so if you store them in a shed or garage I suggest wrapping up in plastic bags or plastic containers.
Some tiny, furry creature thought paper-mache pumpkins were absolutely scrumptious!
For smaller projects, I like to use paper-mache clay.
I use Jonni Good's recipe. She is super cute and has loads of fantastic YouTube tutorials.
The only thing you may not have around the house is joint compound. I bought mine at Bunnings and it's also great to use if you want to smooth out other paper-mache projects using the paper strip method.
I like making pumpkins with the kids because the shape is super easy.
Squish a piece of newspaper into a ball. Wrap the ball in masking tape then wrap again with a layer of aluminum foil.
Use a piece of cardboard to spread on a layer of paper-mache clay.
If it is cold and rainy outside the clay does take a while to dry completely. Setting the pumpkin up by a heater vent can help speed things up!!
Once the first coat has dried, add a second coat of clay. I found some dried twigs (I know, I know...always with the sticks) to use for the pumpkins' stems. Use a skewer to make a hole and pop in the twig. Make sure to cover the bottom of the twig in clay. Use the skewer to make pumpkin lines from the base of the stem.
Then it's just waiting for the pumpkins to dry.
When the clay is dry you can use fine sand paper to smooth but honestly I like a rough, rustic surface for these little guys. Break out the acrylic paint and give your Jack a good old
Halloween smile! Don't stress about perfection. These guys should have a "folk art" feel to them anyway.
Of course you don't have to stick with pumpkins!!
I wanted a giant skeleton so with a heap of toilet paper rolls and loads of paper-mache this Skeleton was born.
I can't wait to see what You make!!
