Thread: whats your method for paper mache?

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What recipe do you use if you make your own and why do you use that recipe?

Or if you buy a mix, what do you use?

I am working on a paper mache skeleton and it is my first project using paper mache. I have seen many recipes and i would like to learn more about why people use the ingredients they do.

White glue and water, 50/50 mix. I use paper towels for the first layers and do the details with those thick "fancy" napkins. When they dry, they get very rigid.

I use water, white glue and flour with a few teaspoons of salt added to retard mold growth. Mostly use torn newspaper. I've done some using paper towels as well.

I second Otaku's recipe (maybe 1/3 glue, 2/3 water).
Depending on what I have on hand, the first couple coats are either news paper strips or paper towel.
Final layers consist of blue shop towel or old cloth.

I've used flour/water/salt, but the smell made me too hungry (ie fresh bread)

thanks for the input. The baked bread smell might be an issue for me cause i do enjoy bread.

I guess simple is good but im curious about other methods as i plan on using mache more due to $$$ issues.

Some of the other things i have heard are using liquid starch with the glue and flour, and using straight wall paper glue.
Cost is an issue with using more ingredients so it makes me curious if there is a unique outcome from these other ingredients.

I will be adding pictures of my skeleton once i start the mache.
I am using unorthodox's BOB tutorial as a guide for this.

I have done a lot of mache work and for the same reasons as yourself....limited $$$

You are on the right track! This art medium is greatly underrated! The truth is with mache projects you are limited only as far as your imagination can take you.

I use white glue and water (about a 60/40 mix) I like to go a little heavy on the glue side. I through in 2or 3 Tbs. of flour, and I also add 2 Tbs. of salt to fend off mold.

I like to start with lots of layers of news paper (No glossy mag paper) and finish a "skin" layer with paper towel if human, or glue soaked cloth rags if zombie (very strong)

I also use a spray bottle to spray on the glue mix (fast and not as messy) Clean the nozzle well after each use or store nozzle end in glass of water to prevent clogging.


Also, when your project is dry don't forget to put some clear water resistant sealer on. Remember whatever you create out of paper, no mater what it now looks like, It's still paper.

Hopes this helps you and good luck!

Originally Posted by Mad Mad Mark

Also, when your project is dry don't forget to put some clear water resistant sealer on. Remember whatever you create out of paper, no mater what it now looks like, It's still paper.

I am just putting finishing touches on a Pumpkinrot and I basically used similar techniques/materials as mentioned above. I used Celluclay to add 3 dimension details to the face as well. I applied the mache mix using a paint brush, cuts down on the mess, but I like the idea of a spray bottle....I will try this next time for sure!!

I was wondering about painting, I will be ready to paint this weekend. I have read where some people recommend clear coating and then painting, clear coat again or painting and then clear coating?? What would you recommend MMM??

The technique you describe would work well. The clear coat...then paint...then a cover layer of clear sealer will produce a sort of 3-D effect. (This works best on a blue "Network" of veins) If you can find a blue sharpie this works well.

I worked in furniture Mfg. for over 30yrs. Well believe it or not this "Layering" technique is the same way a fake "Wood grain" is made in cheaper furniture! The clear gloss first, then the wood stain is smeared, then sandwiched between layers of clear gloss. If you find you don't like the results...no problems spray on a primer and re -paint.

You will find the layers of paper & glue is quite strong, however dampness IS the enemy! But most of all...have FUN with your project!!! Oh yes one more thing, be sure to show us all at the forum how your creation turns out, Ok?

Thanks for your advice MMM, I think I will try the 2 clear coat method. I like your idea on the veins I will also add that detail, I should be able to paint them in with blue acrylic paint.

I'm new to paper mache too. I've read a lot about using a few drops of bleach, and now salt to stop mold. Is that a common problem? How long after you make something does it take to show up? I've made a few pieces a couple months ago, and I'm wondering if I will have a mold problem. Or does that just show up during the drying period if it's going to happen?