Paper Mache Instructions: Recipe to Make Paper Mache

Paper mache is a great activity that could be done at home. All the materials required for a paper mache project are available at home. Paper mache is known as one of the most versatile crafts. Sometimes it is spelt as "papier-mache" also. You can create anything and everything that strikes your imagination using the technique of paper mache. Paper mache is a fun project using recycled papers. You can use anything from old newspapers, gift-wraps and used stationary to grocery bags. If a paper mache project includes a particular shape or a huge item with a hollow inside, you can use cartons, cans, or styrofoam to give a desired shape. Your imagination is the limit while creating paper mache projects.

Paper Mache Instructions: Recipes to Make Paper Mache Paste

You can make puppet head, dolls, bowls, dollhouses, boxes and many more using paper mache. You can paint or decorate a paper mache project after it is finished. To prepare paper mache paste, an essential part of the paper mache recipe, you require the following materials.

• Recipe - Using Multipurpose Flour

½ cup multipurpose flour
3 tbsp sugar
2 cups cold water
2 cups boiling water

In a bowl make a paste using the multipurpose flour and cold water. Boil 2 cups of water and add this mixture to it. Stir continuously to avoid any lumps from being formed. Bring it to a boil and remove from the heat. Stir in the sugar and mix well. The mixture thickens as it cools. Use this paste to make paper mache projects.

• Recipe - Using Wallpaper Paste

If you want a paper mache project to last for many years, instead of flour you could use wallpaper adhesive or paste. The reason is flour paste could become moldy in a humid environment. The materials that you require include the following

1 cup wallpaper paste
3 cups of water

In an old bowl mix, water and wallpaper paste till it becomes a smooth paste. It is ready for use.
Note: Wallpaper paste is available at any hardware store.

• Recipe - Using Glue

Another recipe to make paper mache paste is by using glue. The materials required include the following:

2 cups glue

1 cup boiling water

In an old plastic bowl, mix glue and boiling water to make a smooth paste. This paper mache paste could be used as a wet glue to make paper mache projects.

If you want the flour paper mache paste to last longer, add a few drops of wintergreen oil. Try using non-porous wallpaper adhesive in a humid climate. It is wise to use a wooden spoon to stir and a plastic or rustproof bowl to mix the ingredients. Remember, paper mache projects would be messy; cover your floor or work area with old newspapers or old cloth. Use your innovative and creative ideas to make wonderful wall hangings, bowls and masks using the paper mache techniques.