Paper mache is a craft technique that uses paper and paste to create lightweight, solid objects. It’s often used to make bowls, masks, models, decorations, sculptures and school projects. The basic idea is quite simple; strips or pieces of paper are layered with glue or paste, then left to dry hard.
Paper mache is popular because it is cheap, easy to start and very flexible. You don’t need expensive craft supplies, and many projects can be made with newspaper, scrap paper, flour, water and paint.
What Does Paper Mache Mean?
Paper mache is also sometimes called ‘papier mâché‘. The term comes from French and means “chewed paper”.
There are two main types of paper mache:
- Paper strip paper mache, where strips of paper are dipped in paste and layered over a shape.
- Paper pulp paper mache, where paper is soaked and blended into a soft mixture that can be moulded more like clay.
For beginners, the strip method is usually the easiest place to start.
How Does Paper Mache Work?
Paper mache works by building up layers of paper and paste. The paste sticks the paper together, and as it dries, the layers become firm. The more layers you add, the stronger the finished piece becomes.
A simple paper mache project usually starts with a base shape. This could be a something like a balloon, a cardboard frame, a plastic bowl, a wire shape or a scrunched-up newspaper. Paper strips are then added over the form until the shape is covered.
Once the paper mache has dried completely, it can be painted, decorated, sealed or trimmed depending on the project.
What Do You Need for Paper Mache?
One of the great things about paper mache is that you only need a few basic supplies. A beginner paper mache project might use:
- Newspaper, printer paper, tissue paper or scrap paper
- Flour and water paste, or PVA glue mixed with water
- A bowl for mixing paste
- A paintbrush or your hands for applying paste
- A base shape, such as a balloon or cardboard form
- Paint for decorating
- A protective table covering
Newspaper is commonly used because it is thin, flexible and easy to layer. However, other papers can also work, especially for decorative outer layers.
What Paste Do You Use for Paper Mache?
There are several types of paste you can use for paper mache. The simplest is a flour and water paste. This is often used for children’s crafts and basic projects because it’s cheap and easy to make.
PVA glue mixed with a little water is another popular option. It tends to be smoother, stronger and less likely to spoil than flour paste. It is a good choice if you want a slightly more durable finish.
Some people also use wallpaper paste, but this is less common for very simple beginner projects and may not be suitable for young children.
What Can You Make With Paper Mache?
Paper mache can be used for many different craft projects. Common beginner projects include bowls, masks, animal models, planets, Easter eggs, Christmas decorations, letters, ornaments and small sculptures.
It is also useful for larger projects because the finished object is usually lightweight. That makes paper mache good for props, costumes, theatre pieces and decorative displays.
For small crafts, paper mache is a good way to practise shaping, layering, painting and decorating without needing specialist tools.
Is Paper Mache Easy for Beginners?
Paper mache is very beginner-friendly, but it can be messy. The actual technique is simple, but it does require patience because the layers need time to dry.
The hardest part for many beginners is waiting long enough before painting or adding more detail. If the paper mache is still damp inside, the project may feel soft, smell musty or lose its shape.
A simple balloon bowl, mask or small animal shape is usually a good first paper mache project.
How Long Does Paper Mache Take to Dry?
Paper mache drying time depends on the size of the project, the number of layers and how wet the paste is. A small project may dry overnight, while a larger or thicker project can take a few days.
It is better to use several thinner layers rather than one very thick wet layer. Thin layers dry more evenly and are less likely to go soggy.
Paper mache should be left somewhere warm, dry and well ventilated. It should feel completely firm before you paint or seal it.
Is Paper Mache Strong?
Paper mache can be surprisingly strong when enough layers are added. A thin layer may feel fragile, but several layers can create a firm shell.
For stronger paper mache, you can:
- Add more layers
- Let each layer dry properly
- Use PVA glue instead of flour paste
- Build the project over a strong cardboard or wire frame
- Seal the finished piece after painting
Paper mache isn’t waterproof on its own, so it should usually be kept indoors unless it has been properly sealed.
Is Paper Mache the Same as Clay?
Paper mache is not the same as clay, although paper mache pulp can be used in a clay-like way. Traditional clay is made from natural earth materials and can be fired in a kiln. Paper mache is made from paper and paste, and it hardens by drying.
Paper mache is lighter than clay and easier to use at home. It is a good option for decorative crafts, models and simple sculpture projects. However, it is not as durable or water-resistant as fired clay.
Why Is Paper Mache a Good Craft?
Paper mache is a good craft because it is low-cost, accessible and creative. It is also a useful way to recycle paper and cardboard into something decorative or practical.
It works well for children’s crafts, school projects and adult craft projects. You can keep it very simple, or you can build more detailed sculptures once you understand the basic technique.
Paper mache is also forgiving; if a shape isn’t quite right, you can usually add more paper, build up an area, trim it back or paint over mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Paper mache is a simple craft technique that turns paper and paste into solid shapes. It is easy to start, inexpensive and suitable for many different projects, from masks and bowls to models and decorations.
For beginners, the best way to learn paper mache is to start with a small project, use thin layers and allow plenty of drying time. Once you understand how the paper and paste behave, paper mache becomes a very flexible craft with lots of creative possibilities.