Paste

Recipe file created Dec 14, 1999
Make a small batch for glueing, or a large batch for papier mache. Will keep for two weeks in the fridge.

Small Batch

Ingredients

Large Batch

1/4 cup cold water 10 cups
1 tablespoon flour 1 cup
1 drop mint extract 1 teaspoon

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Cool before use.

Papier Mache

Make animals, containers, piggy banks, pinatas, etc.
  1. Make an armature: form a shape out of chicken wire, blown up balloons, crumpled paper, etc.
  2. Tear some newspapers into strips.
  3. Dip the paper strips in the paste. Wipe off any excess paste -- the paper needs to be wet, but not dripping. Place strips all over the armature.
  4. Place a second layer of strips on the armature, in the opposite direction from the first layer. If the shape is large, or just needs to be strong, keep adding layers, laying the strips perpendicular to each other, until desired strength is attained.
  5. Once the object is dry, paint it or glue decorations on it.

NOTE:

The mint extract will discourage bugs from trying to eat your finished product. I use the paste for my art projects because it is of archival quality.

To make a different sized batch, use the ratio of 1 part flour to 10 parts water. My small batch above has a little less water, because I like it a little thicker for glueing, but 1:10 is just right for papier mache.

-- Rox

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