Paper mache is a mixture of flour and water that you apply over a shape (like this ornament) to create a form. Once the paper mache dries, you’ll remove the excess clay-like material and paint over your creation. When it dries again, the paint will stay put unless you try to scrub it off. That’s why it’s so important to let your ornament dry completely before painting — otherwise, your paint job might look pretty sloppy when you’re done!
Here’s how to make an ornament using a paper mache mold
Materials:
- An empty egg carton or egg crate (this will be your mold)
- A piece of poster board (about 1/4 inch thick) that has been cut into strips
- Glue stick (or white school glue)
- Hot glue gun or craft glue sticks
How to Make a Paper Mache Ornament
Paper mache is a type of modeling material that is made by combining paper pulp and glue. The mixture can be shaped into any form, including animals, sculptures and other artistic creations. After the model has dried, it can be painted or varnished. The paper mache process allows you to create your own unique ornament for the holidays or for any occasion.
Step 1: Cut Your Paper
Cut out three sheets of newspaper into small squares. You will need one sheet per layer of the ornament. If you have more than three layers, cut additional sheets accordingly.
Step 2: Mix Your Glue and Water
In a large bucket or container combine 1 part white glue with 3 parts water until well mixed.
Step 3: Add Newspaper Strips to the Glue Solution
Soak each piece of newspaper in the glue solution for about 15 minutes until it is completely saturated with liquid; do not leave it in longer than this as it will become too soft and won’t adhere properly to itself when dried later on in the process. Remove each piece carefully so as not to rip off pieces of paper that are stuck inside its folds; place them on a flat surface until they stop dripping.
OR
1. Make a paper mache mold by rolling up newspaper into a long tube and taping it together with masking tape (or use an old jewelry box).
2. Mix up some flour and water to make the paste for the ornament. It should be about the consistency of pancake batter — not too runny, not too thick. You’ll need about 2 cups of paste for each ornament you want to make (I used about 3 cups for each ornament).
3. Dip your fingers in water and smooth out any wrinkles in the newspaper so that it’s flat on both sides (this will help prevent leakage). Then dip one end of the mold into your paste mixture and press it against your canning jar until it adheres well enough that when you remove it, there aren’t any air bubbles between the two surfaces (if there are, just push them out with your finger). Repeat this process until you’ve covered all sides of your jar in paste-covered newspaper strips.
