Paper Mache Glue Recipe- Make DIY Paper Mache Paste and Projects Today!
WP: DIY Paper Mache Paste and Projects is the step-by-step way to learn how to Make Paper Mache. You won't believe the projects you can create!
Servings: 1 Paper mache project
Cost: $3-5
Equipment
- Plastic table covering or newspapers for ease in cleanup
- Aprons or old t-shirts to protect your clothing
Ingredients
Supplies for all Options of Paper Mache Paste Projects
- Newspaper or scrap paper recycled paper cut or torn into strips
- Scissors
- A mixing bowl
- spoon
- The balloon is for the base shape we’ll use for these projects. I chose to use the water balloon size
- Recycled cardboard, bottle lids, etc.
- A hot glue gun
- plastic wrap
- Acrylic craft paint
- Paintbrushes
- a clear sealer (optional)
Option 1 for paper mache glue (the option I use in these videos for projects)
- ½ cup School glue
- ½ cup Water
Option 2 for paper mache glue (fast and no mixing)
- Mod Podge Note: there is a glossy option and a matte option
Option 3 for paper mache paste (inexpensive, ingredients on hand)
- 1 cup Flour
- 1 cup Warm water approximate
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
Option 1: Easy School Glue and Water Paper Mache Glue Recipe
- Pour an amount of the school glue into a mixing bowl.
- Slowly add about the same amount of water into the glue.
- Stir until mixed.
Option 2: Mod Podge Paper Mache Glue
- Mod Podge can be used directly from the container, no mixing necessary.
Option 3: Simple Paper Mache Paste Recipe
- Pour the flour into a mixing bowl.
- Slowly stir in the warm water until the consistency of pancake batter.
- Stir until the mixture is as smooth as possible (I can’t ever get all of the little lumps out!).
- Add a little more water if needed if it gets too thick or if you want a thinner paste.
Step-by-Step Instructions for paper mache projects
- Cover your work surface with newspaper or a washable table cloth.
- Cut or tear the newspaper into strips about ½ to ¾ inch wide.
- Blow up a balloon, shape foil/paper, or use cardboard as the base of your project. I chose water balloons for the projects in this tutorial.
- Mix up the paper mache paste or glue mixture you've chosen to use in a mixing bowl (options and recipes are above)
- Dip the paper strips into the paste or glue. Pull the strips over the edge of the bowl or between your fingers to get off the extra glue.
- Layer the paper strips onto the balloon base. Overlap the strips in different directions so they hold together when dry. When You have covered the balloon well set it to the side to dry (set on plastic wrap).
- Add several layers of the paper strips letting each layer dry before putting on the next layer. About 3-4 layers will be enough for these small projects. Remove the balloon from inside the project and cover the hole.
- Add cardboard pieces, wadded newspaper, bottle lids, etc to make the project have the shape you want for your finished project. I use hot glue to attach them to the base form. Cover them with paper mache.
- Use a final layer of paper towel for a smoother finish. Use a final layer of tissue paper for a colorful finish that doesn’t need painting.
- Let the project dry completely before decorating or painting. It would be good to let it dry overnight. It could take even longer if you live in a humid location or you used more layers.
- Decorate your project. There are many options for decoration. Acrylic craft paint works well if you want to paint it. You can glue on a layer of tissue paper as a last layer of paper mache to add color. Color with markers for a simple option. Finally, glue on gems, glitter, lace or trims.
- Seal with a coat of clear sealant if desired. This will protect your project and help it to last longer. This is optional.
Video
Notes
The post lists pros and cons for each option of paper mache paste.
There are many tips and variations as well as a link to the full length video on the post found at: https://welcometonanas.com/how-to-make-paper-mache-paste-and-projects/