I love, I mean LOVE, paper mache (aka papier-mâché) but unfortunately, my kids do not feel the same. For some reason, they act like paper mache paste is an acid that once it gets on their skin it will begin to burn. I’m not sure why this is, but the same kids that hate the feeling of paper mache will stick glue on their hands and pretend to peel it off like skin (okay, I admit to teaching them that one). These are the same kids that will also happily play in mud, sand, and clay (which by the way, coats the hands). It is strange to say the least but it basically means that I when it comes to making paper mache crafts, the kids will help me with everything except putting the paste wet papers onto the frame.
Still, I will whip out the paper mache every once in a while to get my hands dirty and with the hopes of enticing my kids to do so as well.
When it comes to paper mache, there are many different recipes out there but my favorite is the straight flour and water. I know there are some that call for glue but if I’m going to use glue, why not just use all of it. The flour, in my mind at least, is what makes the paper mache harden to the proper consistency so I will share the recipe that I use.
What you need:
- 1 and 1/2 cups of flour
- 3 cups of water
- Newspaper
Basically, the recipe is a 1 to 2 parts and it really is a no fuss recipe, which I prefer.
Directions:
- Combine the water and flour.
- Mix with a whisk until most (if not all) of the lumps are removed.
- Tear or cut the newspaper into 1″ strips.
- Dip the paper into the paper mache.
- Wipe off the excess paper mache into the bowl before attaching the strip to whatever you are working on.
- Repeat
And that is about it. For some great ideas on how to use paper mache, I suggest going to this site or to stick around here for future projects.
Sirena Van Schaik
