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Added: September 3, 2002
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- Armature with a layer of pulp
Pulping
Cover the entire armature with a “skin” of pulp approx 1/8” thick and dry completely in a warm humid free room. You may want to add salt or a few drops of oil of cloves to your pulp to help prevent mould. I use fans to produce a good air flow and have never had a mould problem. Turn the snowman regularly to ensure even drying, including the underside.
The fun parts now begin. I like to do one section at a time, let it dry somewhat, go back to it, pinch, poke, add pulp etc.
Cover head with another layer of pulp and very roughly form a face. Set aside an hour or two then go back. You will find the pulp has softened the first layer of pulp and it becomes more “putty” like to work as it dries.
- Shaping the snowman
Continue to go back to your work. It will remain workable for up to a week and you will find that working the pulp at different drying stages will produce different effects.
Always apply your pulp “roughly” and go back some hours later to refine.
- Shaping the snowman
- Shaping the snowman
- Shaping the snowman
Your finished item will take a long time to thoroughly dry before painting. The item will, when dry, be hard with no soft spots whatsoever. When I am sure the item is thoroughly dry I give it another week before painting!! Then prime the snowman in House Latex Paint (known in UK as emulsion Paint). I then use vinegar paints which suits the textures produced in papier mache, finishing with a coat of OIL based varnish.
- Some finished examples
Final words...
I hope that these instructions have given you an insight into pulped papier mache and that you find it informative. If I can assist you further, please contact me or vist my website.
Online papier mache instructional classes available