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DIY papier mache for beginners. Recipes and step-by-step photos of papier mache made from toilet paper and newspaper. Making the simplest papier-mâché

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Papier-mâché crafts are very popular. This simple technology is successfully used by children of all ages and adults. There is nothing surprising.

From papier-mâché, you can make simple gifts for parents for a holiday or birthday, but you can also create real masterpieces that are not a shame to decorate the interior with.

Material features

Papier-mâché is a mixture of paper pulp and adhesive. Any shredded paper or cardboard can be used as a base (filler). Toilet paper is considered one of the most technologically advanced materials. it dissolves well in water, forming a homogeneous mass.


Papier-mâché is a mixture of paper pulp and adhesive

The adhesive is the adhesive. The most common options are:

  1. Ordinary office glue or PVA glue. It is most suitable for simple crafts done by younger preschool children.
  2. Wallpaper glue. It is easy to prepare, which ensures widespread use.
  3. Paste. You can cook it yourself by dissolving starch in boiling water with stirring.

To impart certain properties to the mixture, other components are additionally introduced. Vegetable oil and detergents give plasticity to the mass. To give strength to the crafts, after hardening, gypsum, alabaster or putty are added to the raw materials.

Attention! Each master has his own secrets of making papier-mâché and, in his own way, adjusts the recipe empirically.

The technology for making papier-mâché crafts includes several stages:

  1. Preparation of the starting material.
  2. Formation of the basis of the craft. Several options can be used. Flat crafts - the mass is laid out on a flat surface in the form of a panel. Thin-walled volumetric crafts - a complex shape is covered with a thick mixture, while the mass repeats all the depressions and bulges. Masks are a typical example. Volumetric figures - they are formed on a frame or by analogy with plasticine. So you can make dolls and figurines of various animals.
  3. The hardening of the craft in vivo. The process can take several days, during which the product must be at rest.
  4. Coloring. After the figure has completely hardened, its final painting is carried out with the drawing of all the details. The best option is acrylic paint of different colors. Volumetric coloring is provided by adding the desired dye (pigments, gouache) to the prepared raw materials. Figures are often varnished (colorless or with a tinted effect).

Papier-mâché is quite malleable material. Depending on the consistency, it can fill and repeat the most complex shapes.

Idea! You can make decorative dishes, vases, caskets, figurines, various masks and decorative elements in different styles from it with your own hands. The master's fantasy is not limited.


Papier-mâché is quite malleable material. Depending on the consistency, it can fill and repeat the most complex shapes

Where to start

The technique of working with papier-mâché is easy to master, but for beginners it is recommended to select simple products. The child should feel the material itself and master the basics of forming crafts.

One of the simplest techniques is waving. The principle is to paste over some form with paper pieces and smear with an adhesive. After the glue dries, the craft is removed from the mold and painted or varnished.

Interesting! The most common example of the use of waving is in the manufacture of plates or cups. Such crafts are shown in the photo.


The most common example of the use of waving is in the manufacture of plates or cups.

They are manufactured in the following order:

  1. First, small strips of newspaper or any other paper are cut.
  2. You can use a plate or bowl of the correct size as a shape. The surface of the mold must be coated with vegetable oil or any cream to make it easier to remove the finished product.
  3. Overlay the first layer. The paper strips are moistened in water and carefully applied over the entire surface of the form in a continuous layer.
  4. The formed layer is covered with PVA glue. The next layer of paper is applied. All subsequent layers are glued alternately until a thickness of 4-6 mm is reached.
  5. The workpiece is left alone until completely dry and hardened. After which it is carefully removed from the form.
  6. The edges of the workpiece are carefully leveled, and the inner and outer surfaces are sanded with fine-grained sandpaper.
  7. The final look is given by staining. Any pattern, ornament, drawing can be applied.

Another simple craft - "Kolobok". It is made in a similar way to a plate, but a balloon is used as a shape.

The inflated ball is pasted over with paper pieces, and after the blank has hardened, it is pierced and carefully removed. After coloring, you get a funny Kolobok.


Another simple craft - "Kolobok"

Crafts for the New Year

New Year's papier-mâché crafts can replace Christmas tree decorations and decorate the room. Beautiful balls can be made using the waving technique.

For such toys, you can take any basis - rubber, plastic balls. Pieces of paper are glued on top, which are painted and varnished. The papier-mâché surface can be decorated with sequins or small colorful pictures.


New Year's papier-mâché crafts can replace Christmas tree decorations and decorate the room

A mixture is prepared for the manufacture of volumetric ornamental figurines. It is best to use toilet paper. A sufficiently plastic mass can be obtained by dissolving 1 roll of paper in 700-750 ml of water.

After obtaining a homogeneous mass, squeeze out the water, add a binder (PVA glue, wallpaper glue or paste). The mixture should resemble thick sour cream in consistency. You can make figurines using children's sand molds. The mass is poured into them, and after hardening, it is carefully removed and painted.


Beautiful toys can be made using the waving technique

Features of making dolls

There are many options for how to make a papier-mâché doll, from very simple kids crafts to original art creations.

The mass is prepared on the basis of loose paper - toilet paper, napkins, egg containers, etc. PVA glue, wallpaper glue or paste is used as an adhesive. The consistency of the mass should correspond to soft plasticine.


There are many options for how to make a papier-mâché doll, from very simple kids crafts to original art creations.

A simple doll is made in this order:

  1. A shape for the head is molded from plasticine. Then it is covered with a thin layer of paper pulp. After it has hardened, an incision must be made through which the plasticine must be removed. The final formation of the thickness of the workpiece is carried out by adding the required amount of mass. The thickness should be 5-6 mm. Eye sockets, nose, mouth, ears are formed.
  2. A wire frame is assembled for the body. The prepared mass is superimposed on it with the simultaneous formation of the neck, arms and legs.
  3. Joining the torso to the head with PVA glue.
  4. The doll's outfit is sewn from the fabric of the desired color.
  5. The whole doll is painted with white acrylic paint. A slight peach shade can be added. Facial features are drawn.
  6. Hair is made of floss or woolen threads. They are glued to the head, the hairstyle is formed.
  7. Clothes are put on and secured.

Papier-mâché can be used to make a complex doll with movable elements (ball-jointed doll). Such a craft is within the power of an experienced craftsman.

It is assembled according to previously prepared drawings. The composition includes the following ingredients: toilet paper, PVA glue, plaster-based putty, liquid detergent.


Papier-mâché can also be used to make a complex doll with movable elements (ball-jointed doll)

The mass is prepared as follows. The paper is dissolved in hot water (55-65 degrees) for 5-6 hours, it is better to use a mixer for mixing. After obtaining a homogeneous mass, the water is squeezed out through cheesecloth, glue and detergent are added (1 tbsp. L. Per 1 l of the mixture). The last in the mixture is putty (120-140 g / l).

All elements of the doll are sculpted from papier-mâché separately. For a movable connection between them, a strong tight elastic band or screw connection is used. In the latter case, a screw is inserted into one of the parts, and a nut is inserted into the adjacent element. The mating surfaces must be well machined to ensure a snug fit.

Steampunk technique

Recently, steampunk figures have come into vogue. In fact, this is a fantastic allegory with the transfer of ancient and outlandish elements.

Originality and irony are especially appreciated in such figures. The jumble of building blocks may be the most unexpected, but they should create a single impression.


Recently, steampunk figures have become fashionable.

As an example of steampunk crafts, consider making a fantastic Fish.

The materials used are papier-mâché, foam panel, cardboard, hardboard sheet, leatherette, studs for furniture upholstery, various small gears, shells and all kinds of household appliances spare parts.


As an example of steampunk crafts, you can consider making a fantastic Fish

The base of the Rybka is made of a foam plastic panel 1-1.5 cm thick. One longitudinal and several transverse corrugated board edges are placed on it. The entire base is covered with papier-mâché in the consistency of soft plasticine.

The fins are cut out of hardboard with a jigsaw according to a cardboard pattern and fixed on papier-mâché. Scales can be formed from curtain rings and leatherette. Various parts of the mechanisms are installed on top. Here you need to show your imagination, because no specific order is provided.


It's important that the fish looks like a mechanized monster.

It is important that the fish looks like a mechanized monster. Shells are hung for decoration. You can sprinkle sand on the figure. Then the workpiece is primed to create a brown background, and some details are highlighted with golden acrylic paint. Finally, the fish is varnished in 3-4 layers. The size of such a craft is 85-100 cm in length.

Making masks

Some of the most impressive papier-mâché crafts are African masks. Such handmade creations can decorate the interior of any apartment. Their size is 35-37 cm in height, 21-24 cm in width.

The mass is prepared on the basis of toilet paper. One mask will require 2 rolls. The paper is dissolved in hot water, and then mixed with PVA glue (420-440 g), and you need to take thick glue for construction work. To give plasticity, linseed oil (3 tablespoons) is added. When stirring the mixture, it is advisable to use a mixer.


Some of the most impressive papier-mâché crafts are masks

A spherical PVC food tray works well for the mold. Its configuration resembles a mask. A papé-mâché layer is applied to this shape. The main details are laid out separately - nose, eyebrows, lips. Eyes are forming.

Smoothing is provided with your fingers, as well as a stack and a knife. It will take 12-14 days for the craft to fully harden. Then the mask is puttyed with a thin layer and sanded after the putty dries. The surface should be perfectly smooth.


Such handmade creations can decorate the interior of any apartment.

The coloring of the mask is carried out in a special mode. First, a primer is applied, and then the entire front surface is painted with white acrylic paint. The next step is to paint on top with black paint.

After drying with a sponge, pearlescent enamel is applied in the right places. The final operation is acrylic varnish coating. You can use glossy or matt varnish. The photo shows examples of the execution of crafts.


The photo shows examples of the execution of crafts

In addition to the specified colors, African masks can be painted in other colors. Elements of red, yellow and blue are often used. Decorate the craft and special details - piercings.

Papier-mâché is rightly considered an excellent material for various crafts. Even small children can make simple products. In adolescents and adults, such creativity develops into a hobby. Their creations are able to decorate the interior of any apartment.

Let's try to make a copy of some kind of papier-mâché dishware. You probably worked with papier-mâché at school, because the technology for its creation is very simple, although it requires perseverance and accuracy. Our instruction will help you remember your "youth"!

To create the simplest papier-mâché, namely the manufacture of dishes from it, you will need very few tools and materials:

  • scissors
  • starch or flour based glue
  • "Paste" (can be PVA glue)
  • any utensil
  • tassel
  • paper (newsprint is possible)

Process

First, you need to prepare a "paste", glue based on flour or starch. Of course, you can use standard PVA glue, but the paste is still more convenient and practical: it is made of natural materials, which means it is not toxic or poisonous.

  1. Mix clean starch (or flour) with a little cold water until all lumps are gone. Then, stirring gently, pour boiling water into the starch and put it on fire. Heat the composition until a transparent mass is obtained.
  2. Next, start cutting paper for papier-mâché. Using scissors, finely cut the paper into strips and various shapes. Any piece of paper will work for you during the creation process.
  3. Spread a brush on the back of the dish (in our case, a saucer). Start carefully, trying not to go beyond the boundaries of the dishes, glue the pieces of paper on the saucer. Try to cover the entire area evenly. Repeat until the thickness of the paper layer is the size you want.
  4. It should be noted that all operations with papier-mâché can be carried out in several stages, each time waiting for the previous layer to dry.
  5. After finishing work, let the paper dry for 24 hours.
  6. After waiting a day, pry the edge of the paper layer with the tip of scissors or a knife and gradually begin to remove the resulting "cast". After that, trim the uneven edges with scissors and start decorating the resulting dishes.
  7. Various watercolors and acrylics will help you with this. To begin with, you can paint the dishes with one layer of paint, a kind of primer. And on top of it already apply patterns and any other illustrations. Don't limit your imagination.
  8. Finished papier-mâché can be varnished to make the drawing glossy. In addition, the dishes from this will become more durable and durable.

I hope this modest detail will add a touch of coziness and warmth to your interior.

Today we will have a purely practical publication - I will show you how I make a lot of papier-mâché for sculpting and modeling. This will be the one million one hundred and first master class on the net on this topic, but since I am doing something from this material, I consider it possible to show how I make papier-mâché.

Are there options? - asks Veselina, looking at the pile of basins and cans.

There are, and their number is comparable to the number of needlewomen using papier-mâché in their work.

But, despite this, there are about a dozen main ways of making a mass of papier-mâché with your own hands, the choice of each of them is based on the desire to obtain certain effects as a result of their work.

The main parameters influencing the choice of a recipe are the following indicators:

  • smoothness and uniformity of the resulting surface;
  • the degree of possible detail of the elements;
  • susceptibility of the finished surface to processing;
  • the degree of deformation during drying.

You said that we wouldn’t have any conversations today, ”Veselina interrupted.“ Let's do something at least once without these lectures.

Yes, the word is not a sparrow, well, he asked for it. We'll have to write another article about papier-mâché, where we consider in more detail all the subtleties and nuances of the composition and parameters of this material.

Well, from papier-mâché I need the material to be plastic, not to burst, the finished surface would be relatively smooth with the possibility of minor subsequent processing.

Therefore, I chose for myself a papier-mâché recipe from newspapers and PVA glue.

Papier-mâché - the necessary materials

For work we need the following tools and materials:

  • newsprint;
  • blender or mixer;
  • PVA glue;
  • putty;
  • bowl and bowl;
  • towel;
  • fork;
  • hot water.

Since I have a small amount of work, I do very little papier-mâché at once. It is convenient for me that the finished volume of the mass fits in my hand. But you can make a lot of chopped dry fibers at once - they are perfectly stored in a dry place for an unlimited time. Therefore, I immediately make dry fibers with a margin, and the mass of papier-mâché is a little more than needed for work.

So, newspapers. Today, 60 sheets of almost A3 size are involved in the process.

Tool for shredding paper. Since the volume is small, such a blender will suit me.


As I said at the beginning, I use PVA glue in this case.


The putty will give the required degree of plasticity.


Any of the listed materials can be replaced with what is in stock. This may affect the characteristics of the finished material, but it is possible to determine only empirically.

Papier-mache from newspapers and PVA glue - photo master class

So, I tear the paper and soak it in hot water for a day. From time to time I go up and tear the paper with my hands, not really trying, because I have an assistant who is more qualified in this area. But, if he gets already torn paper, it will be easier. Therefore, I try to provide him with all possible help. In general, I tear the paper with my hands until I get bored.


Now let's get down to attracting a mechanized tool. In the same bowl, I use a blender to grind the paper until I get porridge with relatively small fragments. I do not overstress the blender, because it still has to work hard for the benefit of my handicrafts. I came across a blender from long-livers, so I treat the device with deep respect and take frequent and long breaks in its operation so that it does not overheat.


My blender's knife is two-bladed, and despite its high quality, you sometimes need to monitor the sharpness of its blades, because paper has an unpleasant property to reduce it strongly. Therefore, when I grind other cutting tools, I try not to forget about the blender.


The time has come for batch processing of the mixture. The blender kit comes with a wonderful vessel that I fill two thirds or three quarters full so there is less splatter. At this stage, the blender is used until the result suits me - a homogeneous mass with evenly distributed fibers should be obtained. Ideally, you want to achieve a complete absence of visible pieces of paper, but more often than not I do not have the patience to grind the mixture for so long.


However, then I scold myself for this, because I have to periodically bump into one or two bump of unshredded paper when smoothing the surface, and with high detailing of the product, this causes certain inconveniences, so the better the paper is shredded at this stage, the it will be easier and more pleasant to work with a mass of papier-mâché in the future.


I separate the water from the mixture by squeezing it through the towels folded in half. This is also an important stage, so I try to complete it as well as possible. The fact is that later I will completely dry the crushed fibers, therefore, the harder I squeeze out the water now, the less time will be spent on drying. It is important not to overdo it or break the towel.







After spinning, such a semi-dry mass should remain, which you need to break into small pieces with your hands. But I just adjust to the blender so that the crushed fragments fall into its working area.



While the mass of papier-mâché is wet, it needs to be crushed to the maximum, because dried fibers are very reluctant to process, and you can simply dull the blades.



The next step is drying the shredded fibers. I use natural drying, which lasts from one day in summer in hot weather to several days in winter. I attach great importance to the quality of drying in order to minimize deformation of the finished papier-mâché products. Indeed, it is the presence of water and its amount that determines how the surface will change during the final drying.


For the same reason, I do not use flour paste, which contains a lot of water, but PVA glue. Pour an arbitrary small amount of glue into a bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands. In some cases, you have to add glue if you get a thick mass, or dry fibers, if you have poured a lot of glue. After mixing, you should get a mass with the consistency of plasticine, that is, you need to make enough effort to work with it further.



To increase the plasticity of the mass, I add a putty. You need very little of it, you can see the approximate proportions in the photo. Re-mix the mixture thoroughly, noticing how its physical characteristics change towards softening and plasticity. You need to periodically try a lot of papier-mâché for a break. Such a piece should be separated with a certain effort.


After all these manipulations, small fragments of poorly crushed paper still remain in the thickness of the mixture, which can cause big trouble in further work. I try to separate them at the last stage, during which I rub the mass in a bowl with an ordinary fork.


Once again, I knead the mass with my hands, determine the plasticity and convenience of subsequent work. But I don't use such a mass right away, because the fibers should be soaked with glue even better. To do this, I wrap the papier-mâché with cling film and hide it in the refrigerator on the lower shelf for a day. After that, the mass is ready for work.



DIY papier-mache - video master class

So, today I showed, and you saw how you can very simply and relatively quickly make a lot of papier-mâché for modeling and modeling with your own hands. Another indisputable advantage of this recipe is its availability, and this parameter is important for novice needleworkers.

Thank you for your attention, I wish you all success and good mood.

Papier-mâché is an ancient art that has not lost its popularity. Try this simple creativity and find a source for new masterpieces in it!


Papier-mâché is a simple technique for making bulky items using paper and paste. Even with the advent of various plastics (super plastics), papier-mâché does not lose its popularity, remaining indispensable for some types of creativity (for example, masks). Take a short excursion into the history of this unusual technique and find out what options there are for its use, how to make papier-mâché with your own hands, and how this activity will be useful.

History of paper art

The papier-mâché technique is time-tested, because its history goes back several thousand years! The ancient Egyptians made death masks using layers of papyrus interspersed with adhesive. In Persia, multi-layered paper was used to make decorative items, including chests and cups. Often, thin metal plates were applied over the paper layer.

The strength of papier-mâché products with a large number of layers was noticed back in ancient China - they began to use this technique for the production of armor and shields that could protect a warrior not only from an arrow, but also from a blow with a sword.

Repeated coating with natural varnishes added additional strength to the material. In addition, in Japan and China, ceremonial masks, decorative elements for a military costume, home decor items (boxes, vases) and even buttons were made from this material.

Often, the surface of the products was covered with a glossy varnish and, thus, items that looked luxurious were obtained from a relatively cheap material. In India, papier-mâché could be found in any craft market in the form of richly ornamented household items.

Since the 17th century, papier-mâché began to be actively used in France, and then in England, in puppetry - this technique was the best way to reproduce the delicate features of puppet faces. The high strength of the material was a big advantage. Unlike porcelain, the finished papier-mâché product was not fragile, and was also much lighter than wood.

In the 18th century, papier-mâché became an inexpensive alternative to architectural stucco and carved wood; later this technique was even used to make furniture elements (for example, chair backs) and church utensils.

To this day, papier-mâché is widely used in film production and theater for the manufacture of props (dummies of various things: weapons, dishes, jewelry, interior items, imitation of reliefs in the landscape or architectural structures), overhead elements for makeup (noses, chins), stage details costume (hats, masks).

Minimum funds and maximum benefits

Papier-mâché is one of the few types of creativity that will be of interest to almost everyone, because there are a lot of options for products made of glued paper, and the process of working in this technique does not require artistic training or certain knowledge. Despite the fact that paper is used for this type of creativity, it has nothing to do with other paper hobbies, weaving from paper tubes.

The advantages of this hobby are obvious:

  • it does not require material costs;
  • he does not need a large workplace;
  • you can do without special skills;
  • technique is an extremely simple process that can be mastered even by a preschool child;
  • a wide creative spectrum (making dolls, masks, figurines, boxes, items for decorations, Christmas tree decorations, shades);
  • suitable for making items of any size;
  • finished products are highly durable and do not require special maintenance.

What you need for classes and first crafts

As already noted, papier-mâché is a very economical form of creativity. The main thing that is needed for papier-mâché is thin paper and glue (PVA, carpentry, stationery, gelatinous or starch paste). There are two fundamentally different versions of this technique:

  • pieces of paper are glued in layers on the finished form;
  • an elastic mass is prepared from paper and paste, from which an object is formed.

Everyone can include this hobby in the list of their hobbies; success awaits only those who do not like to quit what they started. Qualities that will be useful in working with papier-mâché:

  • perseverance;
  • accuracy;
  • a little fantasy.

Features of layer-by-layer technique and work process

The first option (from pieces) is suitable for making masks, doll heads, figurines, caskets. The surface of the finished products lends itself to grinding, so it is very easy to achieve perfect smoothness. The whole process of work can be divided into several stages.

First step

Prepare thin paper (newspaper works well). To do this, you can cut or tear it into pieces, their size depends on the expected size of the product - for small works it can be 1x1 cm, for large ones up to 4x4, 4x10 cm. Torn paper will make the surface of the product smoother than cut.

Prepare the form to stick the paper on. To do this, you can take both a ready-made object and one sculpted from plasticine or clay (for example, a doll's head).

If you take a ready-made item as the basis for papier-mâché, remember that to obtain a volumetric shape, you will need to cut the already-finished papier-mâché into two halves to get the base shape, and then glue them. Therefore, the base may be damaged when cut. For a spherical shape, you can take a balloon, which at the end of the work can be removed through a previously left hole in the layers of paper.

To make ready-made papier-mâché easy to separate from the base (both finished and molded), it is recommended to grease the form with petroleum jelly or wrap it with cling film before applying the first layer of paper.

Second phase

Paste over the form with layers of paper. The number of layers depends on the desired thickness and strength - the minimum amount is 4–5, the maximum is not limited, but already with 15 layers, the wall thickness of the product will be about 0.5–0.7 cm, so there is usually no point in making more layers than this amount.


To evenly cover the form with paper, it is convenient to alternate layers of different colors - so it will be clear when to start a new one.

Third stage

Dry the product well (within 24 hours) and remove from the mold. If an incision is required to remove it, it is convenient to make it with a sharp paper knife. After removing the mold, you need to glue pieces of paper on the inside of the product along the cut so that half of the piece extends beyond the cut, then grease them with glue and attach the second half of the product.

You also need to glue the joint line of the halves on the outside with two layers of paper and, for strength, cover the entire shape with another layer of papier-mâché (if further staining is expected, then it is better with a layer of white paper).


A well-dried product can be sanded with fine-grained emery paper.
You can paint papier-mâché with any paint, but it is best to take acrylic - it will not be erased from the mold and dries quickly. If desired, papier-mâché is opened with varnish.

Pulp modeling

The second version of papier-mâché (from paper pulp) is suitable for the formation of finished products by simple sculpting or sculpting on a frame. By the way, the very name of the technique is translated from French as "chewed paper". There are a lot of recipe options for preparing the mass, and after a few tests you will find your own optimal ratio of ingredients.

Usually it is done this way: soak newsprint, cardboard from boxes or egg trays, or toilet paper in warm water, leave it for several hours, periodically kneading it with your hands (you can put it on the stove to keep the water warm).

After soaking, the mass is carefully squeezed out and crushed with a blender or in a meat grinder (a more laborious option is rubbed through a sieve). Next, glue is added to the mass and kneaded until the homogeneous elastic mass ceases to stick to the hands.


The formed product dries completely in 2-3 days - it should not be dried on a battery, as this can lead to cracks. The dried mass becomes hard and very light. It can also be sanded and painted in the same way as or.

Useful activity for pleasure

As already noted, using the papier-mâché technique, you can make completely different types of products, this is an excellent way to make both decorative works and things for practical use in the home. With this technique, you can simulate more expensive materials such as metal, stone, or ceramics.

Cat's house

Working with papier-mâché calms, helps to focus on the process and take a break from everyday worries, develops creative thinking. Starting with simple and common products, you quickly move on to realizing your own creative ideas.

Step-by-step workshops for beginners

To make it easier for you to move from plans and doubts to actions, our needlewomen have prepared step-by-step instructions with a photo. Taking master classes as a basis, you will quickly master the papé-mâché technique and learn how to create your own masterpieces worthy of imitation.

Papier-mâché is a kind of mixture from which you can independently create an original craft at home. This French name literally translates to "chewed paper".

Papier-mâché is a mixture of cardboard (paper) with adhesives (gypsum, starch). From such a mass, you can make decorative ornaments, children's toys or furniture on your own at home.


Workplace

To create papier-mâché, you need a large, spacious table. It must be covered with oilcloth or paper (newspaper), which you will not mind throwing away after work. A dry cloth should be kept near the work area in order to wipe off the glue from your hands.

Before considering the options for crafts from papier-mâché and the tools necessary for this, it is worthwhile to study in more detail the instructions on how to make papier-mâché correctly, production techniques and some of the nuances.

Papier-mâché techniques

Today, there are many techniques for making various papier-mâché crafts.

In order to make a large craft, you will need to work with paper and paste. What kind of papier-mâché craft can you make? Novice needlewomen are advised to make small crafts and only then try to create toys and interior items.

The most popular technique for making such crafts is waving. The basic principle is to stick torn paper in layers on an object. After waiting for the paper to dry, remove it from the craft, paint and varnish.

This manufacturing technique is very easy to perform and can be learned by children. Simple papier-mâché crafts are suitable for novice needlewomen. A similar method is used in the manufacture of plates or cups.

First you need to grind the paper, fill it with water and mix thoroughly. The prepared mixture is left for a day, then squeezed out and glue is added.

For maximum plasticity, experienced needlewomen advise adding 2-3 tablespoons of any of the oils. If you carefully pack the prepared mixture in cling film, you can keep it in working form in the refrigerator.

What crafts can be made from papier-mâché

Such craftsmanship techniques allow you to create interesting interior items, children's toys, boxes, dishes, etc. The greatest interest in this hobby is shown by children from five to ten years old.


Such activities cheer up children, develop motor skills and perception of beauty. This hobby does not involve any particularly difficult activities. The main thing is perseverance.

How to make a plate out of papier-mâché yourself

Novice needlewomen are advised to start doing this hobby with making a plate. Try to involve children in this activity. This will make the process of making papier-mâché crafts of any complexity more exciting and fun.

First you need to cut paper (white) or newspaper into small strips. Next, we prepare the basis for the craft - a plate. In a separate bowl, mix water and PVA glue.

Lubricate the plate with butter or cream. This will allow the paper to peel off more easily from the backing. Next, dip the cut pieces in water and glue them. First, lay out one layer. It must be carefully greased with glue and put the next one on it. It is worth repeating the process until the layer thickness reaches three to five millimeters.

Once the workpiece has reached the required thickness, it is left to dry at room temperature. After complete drying, carefully remove the workpiece from the base.

For a beautiful and smooth surface, sand it with sandpaper, and apply a layer of putty on top.

Such plates will perfectly decorate the interior of an apartment, house, area in a photo studio. Show your imagination, be inspired by photos of papier-mâché crafts on the Internet. It is inexpensive to create a papier-mâché product, but it will be interesting to look like a fake.


How to make a papier-mâché piggy bank tiger

On the Internet, you can find a lot of papier-mâché workshops. Here's one of them: creating a piggy bank tiger. To do this, you will need: white paper - 2 liters, sheets of newspaper, plasticine, a can, glue, paste, gouache, acrylic varnish.

First, prepare a paste (a boiled and cooled mixture of cold water and starch). The jar is turned over and placed on the floor or table. It is covered with plasticine, forming the animal's face.

To make the piggy bank stronger, leave it to dry overnight. This is followed by gluing with white paper using PVA glue.

Let the workpiece dry a little and then cut it in two. They must be removed from the can and connected again with PVA glue and white paper.

On top we make an incision in the size suitable for the coins. The workpiece is processed on top with white gouache, and after drying, you can start painting it. The piggy bank tiger is ready!

Photo of papier mache crafts