Home Made Paper Mache Paste

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papier-m%C3%A2ch%C3%A9

What you need:
1 cup non-self rising wheat flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup cold water
4 cups boiling water
1 Tbs powdered alum
1/2 tsp oil of cinnamon (optional)

How to make:

• Combine flour & sugar in a large pot. Slowly stir in cold water to form a paste.
• Slowly add to boiling water, stirring vigorously to break up lumps.
• Bring back to a boil, stirring constantly until thick and clear.
• Remove from heat & add alum. Stir until well mixed
• Add oil of cinnamon if paste will not be used immediately

Yields about 1 & 1/2 quarts

Paper mache can be used for many different projects. I have used it to make pinatas, card boxes, rattles and other 3D sculptures. One of my favorite assignments to make with my students is LARGER than LIFE objects. We take everyday items such as, toothbrushes, candy bars or pencils and make them HUGE. I have done this as group projects as well as individual. Either way works out great!

First, decide what to make; roll, fold or bunch up newspapers into the shape you need. You can also use cardboard boxes, paper towel rolls, toilet paper rolls, balloons or any material to make your basic shape. Then tape the items together so you have a stable structure. Finally, tare strips of newspapers, dip them into the glue (using your fingers squeegee off the excess glue) and wrap your structure in at least 3 layers. When the layers have all dried and you are happy with the look of your design, you may finish it off with paint to add the finishing details.

Here are some images for you from google image...

The picture above shows you structures and how to apply the layers. See how the students uses his/her fingers to squeegee off the excess glue?

 

These are maracas made with small water balloons and rolled paper. You leave a hole around the knot of the balloon so as the paper mache dries you can pop the balloon and remove it. Then add dried beans, rice or popcorn (to name a few choices) into the hole and finish paper mache-ing a handle to the rattle. When all dry, paint however you like.

Here are the LARGER than LIFE items like I mentioned. The kids can get really creative here and they really enjoy this project. The process is the same, you just make it HUGE.