Thread: Help! Paper Mache Virgin!

Tweet

Hi guys,

Is anyone out there good with papier mache? I am trying to make spider hatchlings (i.e. eggs/pods with spiders coming out) to decorate spiders lair in our hall. One of the "eggs" is much bigger than the others and is going to be a pinata for the kids. How many layers of paper should I be aiming for? I just deflated balloon and it took half the paper with it so its sunken in and may have to bin it. Any top tips out there??? I don't want to buy a commercial one if I can make it myself.

Thanks in advance for any tips

I would suggest doing at least 3 layers. The size of the paper strips you use also will make a difference in the strength of it (smaller pieces make is stronger). Just make sure to let each of the layers thoroughly dry before adding the next.

If the layers caved you can just pop 'em out again. Anything less than 3 layers is gonna be ripped with even the tiniest hit so do at least 3 layers.

Noooo...make it yourself! Just add 3 layers, let it dry, then see how it feels. You can always build it up with more layers or maybe just a couple of strips along an axis for support. Have fun!!!!!!

How old are the kids?

Chances are it caved because it wasn't completely dry.

Using just a flour and water recipe for the glue, you should shoot for 3-7 layers, depending on the age of the kids and whether you blind fold them or not. Tie the string to a strip of cardboard and mache that into place with several layers as well, or the string will just pop out.

For older kids, you can reinforce the mache with some cardboard in between a layer or two.

The more space on the inside of the pinata the easier it is to break as well.

I made a 10 layer pinata crammed full, SOLID, center one time...Fun watching teenagers attempting to hit homers on that thing with baseball bats... It did eventually break.

Anyone else read the title of this thread and think "You want to make a WHAT now?"

I knew skipping the morning coffee was a lousy idea.

Originally Posted by GobbyGruesome

Anyone else read the title of this thread and think "You want to make a WHAT now?"

I knew skipping the morning coffee was a lousy idea.

You ain't right GG!!!!

Originally Posted by GobbyGruesome

Anyone else read the title of this thread and think "You want to make a WHAT now?"

I knew skipping the morning coffee was a lousy idea.

No, no, I also immediately thought, "A papier mache Mary? Really? What does she have to do with Halloween?"