Easy Paper Mache Projects

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Paper mache has been around for centuries, and paper mache art projects are a staple in almost every school. It's fun, super versatile and cheap to make.

There are lots of serious artists that use paper mache as their medium, and I can see why. Once you know the basics, and do a few simple paper mache projects, the sky is the limit as to what you can create.

photo credit: Mumblion

In addition, paper mache creates strong durable finished projects that can even be sanded to a smooth, fine finish. Paper mache is used in the theatre for scenery, costume and mask making. It's used to build parade floats, and any number of elaborate temporary structures and of course, permanent artwork.

As a frugal 'at home' activity it allows your kids to create from their imaginations in 3D. You probably already have everything you need to try one of these easy projects today.

Easy Paper Mache Projects to Get Your Family Started

Never done paper mache before? No worries.

Masks are a very popular paper mache project, especially for school kids. A full face mask can be made using a balloon as a mold.

photo credit: Tracy the Astonishing

A mask very similar to the one pictured can be made by cutting the mask out of thin cardboard. A cereal box is perfect. Cover it with paper mache.

Use white paper instead of newsprint as the base then add a layer of tissue paper strips to make it colorful and whimsical.

While it's still wet lay it across an inflated balloon or rolled up newspaper, lay it on your table, then lay the center of the mask on the roll and bend the sides down slightly so they touch the table. This will give the mask the slight bend around the nose and face.

If you look closely at the picture you can see it's not completely flat.

Make several and let your kids experiment with fit and design.

After the mask is completey dry use an exacto knife to cut out the holes for eyes and mouth. It can then be painted and embellished with feathers, sequins or anything your kids would like.

Paper Mache Bowls are another popular project and as easy as they are to make, can turn out quite simple or stunning. It's all up to the "artist".

1. Blow up a latex balloon. Different sized balloons will get you different sized bowls.

photo credit: mollychicken

2. Use a maker to draw a line around the fattest part of the balloon to determine the size of your bowl. This also helps keep the sides of the bowl even.

3. Cover the top of the balloon (this is the bottom of your bowl) with layers of paper mache using the line as a guide. Remember to let each layer dry completely before applying the next.

Putting the knotted side of the balloon inside a cup or jar to hold it makes this process much easier.

4. Once your bowl is dry you can add "feet" by rolling up paper balls, or....use 3 dixie cups ;similar to the feet on the piggy bank. Use masking tape to tape them in place then cover the feet with a layer of paper mache.

Once the bowl is dry it can be painted. Make sure these bowls are used for non-edible items.

Everyone loves a Piggy Bank and making your own with paper mache is a lot of fun. Using a water balloon as your mold is great for this because water balloons tend to be small and round.

photo credit:"sunoakspictures"

1. Cover the balloon in about 3 layers of paper mache and let dry thoroughly. Leave the balloon's knot sticking out the back.

Hold the knot and cut carefully around it to try and release the air slowly. Pull the balloon out then cover up the hole with the snout.

2. Use cardboard cut outs and dixie cups to make the ears, snout and feet using masking tape to hold them in place. Cover with another layer of paper mache.

3. The piggy bank can be painted, or....I like doing the final layer of paper mache in play money and using the plastic coins for eyes. Play money can be found at your local dollar store. A twisted pipe cleaner makes a cute squiggly tail.

Don't forget to cut a slot in the top with an exacto knife. You can also cut an opening in the bottom and tape back in place to avoid having to "break the bank" when it's time to take out the savings.

For a bit more EXPLOSIVE fun, try this paper mache volcano.

If you'd like more kid-friendly paper mache projects check out DLTK-kids.com.