1. About.com
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Family Crafts

Discuss in my forum

How to Make Paper Mache Base Forms and Molds

Create Forms for Your Paper Mache Projects

By , About.com Guide

How to Make Paper Mache Base Forms and Molds

How to Make Paper Mache Base Forms and Molds

One of the nice things about paper mache is you do not need any special supplies! You can use many items found around your house to make molds and forms or armatures for your paper mache projects.

You can create forms for your paper mache projects easily. Here are some suggestions for items to use for your paper mache projects. Some can be used as bases for the projects, while others can be used to add specific details.

Balloons - All sizes and shapes are great for bases to rounded designs. A balloon is also a perfect base for a pinata. Watch this how-to video to learn more about using balloons for paper mache projects.

Cardboard - Corrugated cardboard is great to make bases for projects; and lightweight cardboard, like from cereal boxes, works well for adding smaller details.

Chicken Wire - Use this as a base for large projects. How about making a paper mache dinosaur?!

Masking Tape - Great for holding all the base pieces together while you apply the paper mache.

Newspaper - Besides being a key ingredient in holding your paper mache creation together, you can use it for creating details. Try rolling it to make an arm or leg, or crumple it up to make smaller parts!

Shoe Boxes - Cover with paper mache to make a fancy box, or use as a base for a bigger project.

Toilet Paper Rolls and Paper Towel Rolls - Great for adding details like arms and legs.

Have I got you thinking yet? No need to limit yourself to the items above, how about creating a masterpiece using one of these items!

  • Aluminum Pie Pans
  • Blown Eggs
  • Bottles or Jars
  • Cardboard Ice Cream Containers
  • Detergent Boxes
  • Egg Cartons
  • Frozen Juice Cans
  • Juice Boxes
  • Oatmeal Containers
  • Paper Cup
  • Plastic Margarine Bowls
  • Soda Pop Bottles
  • Styrofoam Meat Trays
  • Tin Foil

As you can see by this list, you can use almost any item you have laying around your house for paper mache. Look around your house and start creating!

                    | Main Paper Mache Page | Paper Mache Paste and Pulp Recipes |
              | Step-By-Step Directions | Tips and Hints | Paper Mache Photo Gallery |

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved. 

A part of The New York Times Company.