Paper Mache

Paper mache is a fun craft. You dip strips of paper in wet paste. Then you layer them over a shape like a balloon. When the paste dries, it gets hard. You can paint it and make masks, animals, or piñatas.

How to Make Paper Mache

You need newspaper, flour, and water. Mix the flour and water to make a paste. Tear the newspaper into strips. Dip each strip in the paste and lay it on a mold. Add many layers and let it dry overnight. Then you can paint it any color you want.

Paper Mache Around the World

People have used paper mache for hundreds of years. In Mexico, piñatas are made with paper mache. In India, artists make colorful masks and toys. In China, people made helmets from paper mache long ago. It is a craft that people love everywhere.

Fun Facts

• The name paper mache comes from French words meaning chewed paper.
• Piñatas are one of the most famous things made from paper mache.
• In the 1700s, some furniture was made from paper mache.

Did You Know?

Long ago in China, warriors wore helmets made from paper mache because it was light but strong!