LESSON 10

LESSON 10

LESSON OBJECTIVES :

• Identify the different techniques in making papier mache

• Apply knowledge of colors and shapes in creating papier mache
If you had fun with paper beads. you will also enjoy making papier-máchésl But
have you ever thought why papier-machés is spelled as such and how it started?
● Origins can be traced to hundreds
of years ago in China. its popularity
grew in the nearby countries then
reached the different parts of
Europe. France was the first to
practice it in the West and coined
the term papier-mache Or chewed
paper because it is repulped paper
mixed with glue or paste.
Papier mâché or paper mache is a
popular crafting technique that
uses paper and a paste to create a
variety of objects. The method is
named after the French term for
“chewed paper,” which makes
sense given the steps needed for
any paper mache project.
Paper mache is the layering of moistened
paper and other materials onto a blank
surface like a balloon. The adhesive used to
wet the paper acts as a binding agent. As
the paper dries, the outer shell hardens,
which can then be painted and decorated.
○ This craft is centuries old and is prized for its
affordability and practicality. Essentially, all
you need is recycled paper and a simple
paste to create durable items like piñatas,
vases, and jewelry boxes.
It might seem like the only paper mache options
are rudimentary objects like bowls and simple
sculptures. However, this method is also used to
make items as large and intricate as carnival
floats. In the past, paper mache was combined
with other materials to make things like canoes
and even auxiliary fuel tanks.This craft is
centuries old and is prized for its affordability and
practicality. Essentially, all you need is recycled
paper and a simple paste to create durable items
like piñatas, vases, and jewelry boxes.
This age-old craft spans multiple generations and countries, assisting in the
making of several objects. Although the name is French, this method didn’t make
an appearance in France until the 17th century. Before then, the technique was
used in China and elsewhere in the world as far back as 200 BC.
● In ancient China, this method was used to construct
objects like snuff boxes and warrior helmets.
● The ancient Egyptians used paper mache to make
death masks using linen and plaster.
● In 18th-century Europe, this technique was used as a
less expensive option to ornamental plaster and carved
wood on furniture.
● In modern times, paper mache has been replaced with
materials like plastic, so the technique is no longer
commercially accessible for decorative objects.
The principles behind paper mache are simple:
cut some paper into manageable strips, moisten
the strips with a pre-made adhesive, then
smooth the paper on a surface. These steps
work well when you’re making simple kids crafts.
However, some additional techniques help
elevate the craft beyond simple bowls and
sculptures. .
● Decide What Form to Use
○ Balloons — work well when creating bowls, sculptural
faces, and masks.

○ Cardboard — this material is ideal for square objects like

jewelry boxes and planters. You can also make an
intricate frame using cardboard to make sculptures and
pinatas.

○ Eggs — can help create the base of small dolls and other
objects.

○ Paper pulp — make some paper pulp if you want to

freehand an object without a base or mold. To make pulp,
you mix full sheets of paper with water until it has a pulp-
like consistency.
● Choose an Adhesive
○ Mix flour and hot water.

○ Dilute Elmer’s glue with water.

○ Use drywall compound and glue for heavy-duty projects.

○ Purchase a pre-mixed adhesive. .

● Make Something Using These Steps
○ Layer the strips of paper on the form in a cross-
hatched pattern.

○ Use at least three layers of paper for durability.

○ Allow the piece to dry completely before sanding or

painting.
● Traditionally, paper mache paste is
made using flour and water. However, if
you decide to use this method, be
aware that the project could develop
mold over time. To combat this, you
could opt to use diluted craft glue or
wood glue. You could also add oil of
cloves or salt to the adhesive mixture as
a mold deterrent.