Introduction:
Paper Mache is an excellent material for creating masks, puppets, and sculptures.
The following lesson utilizes an instant paper mache pulp called Claycrete. It
is easy to prepare, easy to model, economical and exceptionally white when dried
at room temperature. Finished projects are lightweight. Furnished in dry form,
it mixes with water and is ready for immediate use. Claycrete begins to set in
30 minutes. At this time, fine modeling and smoothing of the surface is easily
achieved. During the modeling process, more Claycrete may be added to a sculpture.
It is advised to mix only enough Claycrete for a 30 minute sculpting session.
Claycrete dries best slowly at room temperature. To speed drying, pieces may be
dried in the sun or oven at 150 degrees F. Claycrete must be thoroughly dry before
painting or decorating. Acrylic paint is a recommended paint for decoration.
Objective:
To acquaint students with three dimensional art materials. To learn how to compose
in three dimensions. To build an underlying structure or armature for a sculpture.
Materials:
Claycrete
instant paper mache
Water
Mixing bowl
Aluminum
armature wire or aluminum foil
Newspaper
Masking tape
Clay tools
for modeling the paper mache
Acrylic-based
gesso
Synthetic
hair brushes for acrylic painting
Water container
Disposable
palette paper
Acrylic paint
Acrylic gloss
varnish or Krylon Crystal Clear spray fixative
Directions:
Use the armature wire or foil to create an armature or form to support the
paper mache. It is also possible to tape newspaper together to make an armature.
Mix Claycrete according to package directions.
Use Claycrete immediately after mixing. Unused Claycrete may be stored in
an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Apply Claycrete to the armature.
Allow Claycrete to dry thoroughly.
Prime the piece with acrylic gesso. Gesso can be sanded for an even smoother
finish.
Pour or squeeze acrylic colors onto the disposable palette. Decorate piece
with acrylic paint. Keep brushes in water to prevent dried acrylic in them!
Spray or paint it with an acrylic varnish to make it glossy.
Resources:
Bawden, Juliet. The Art and Craft of Papier Mache. Chronicle Books:
San Francisco, 1990.
Long, Teddy Cameron. Super
Masks & Fun Face Painting. Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.: New York, 1997.
