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I am currently working on a school project; I am in the process of making a papier mache camel. This camel is approximately 6 feet tall and 7 feet long. :shock: This camel, with PVC pipe legs and base, is firmly connected to a chicken wire-shaped body. I have already placed one layer of coating on the chicken wire. I used Plaster of Paris and water to stick it to the camel. However, it has dried, and is peeling very badly. Is there any way to prevent this peeling from occuring? Thanks...
That's a big camel you are making! 
To avoid this peeling happening next time, you could do what I do. I usually paste a large piece of newspaper and drape it over the framework. Leave it to dry then build up layers from then on. To rectify what you have done already, you could brush off all the flaking parts and paint over it with a watered down pva(white) glue. This will stick it all firmly in place to allow you to carry on.
Hope this helps and that you are pleased with your finished camel.
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WOW that sure is a big camel
I think your problem is using Plaster of Paris in place of "glue/pastes etc"
I suggest that you do as Jackie sugests then continue adding layers of papers using a glue or paste
Terry
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But i thought that the Plaster of Paris would hold it stronger...
Plaster of Paris on its own is very brittle and not at all strong in such a thin layer. You are probably thinking of the bandage that is used in hospitals to make casts. Some people use this for the first layer, but you really don't need it. It is the glue that gives the strength, and once you have applied lots of layers, your papier mache will be very strong.
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Well, then what are you supposed to use in papier mache?
Have a look under the "information" button. Under "tutorials" you will find basic instructions to get you started, and below a selection of excellent tutorials to give you a good idea how to use it. You will also find that you will want to make a lot more things after looking at these! 
Click on:
http://www.papiermache.co.uk/exec/cms-d … iew/id-23/
To start you off. Happy macheing!
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Here's the project, so you can see how it's coming along....
Visit my camel!
Hi just saw the camel it seems to be coming along beautifully
Terry
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Thanks for posting pictures. It's looking good. You may find you want to work on the legs first to get them nice and sturdy to support the body. Wet papier mache is very heavy - you don't want him sitting down!
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The camel is great! Good JOB! I agree with Jackie, though. May have to use the newsprint for something else
karen
www.farroutart.com
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