From Amazon Boxes to Heirloom Crafts.

Paper mache is simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. With the right paper, paste, and techniques, you can create beautiful, durable pieces you'll enjoy for years. Consider this your starting point—a foundation you can build upon with your own ideas, designs, and creativity.

Paper mache has been around for centuries, yet it's often dismissed as a children's craft. In reality, with the right materials and techniques, it becomes an incredibly versatile medium for creating beautiful, functional objects for the home.

Over the past several months I've tested dozens of combinations of cardboard, papers, glues, paints, and finishes to discover what works best - and just as importantly, what doesn't. This Primer will share the methods I use every day in my own studio. The aim here is to answer all your questions and help you make a choice of materials that suits you best. 

All of our suggestions will give you a sturdy foundation that will give you a lasting finished product. 

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The Basic Recipe

Ingredients

Cardboard

Paper

Paste

A pattern download

A little time

 

Method

• Preparing your pattern

1. Preparing your pattern. Download, assmebel full pattern sheet, cut o ut pattern pieces. 
2. Cutting out the cardboard pieces
3. building the structure
4. Covering with Paper Mache
5. Drying
6. Optional - sanding, painting, embellishing and coating

1. Tear paper into strips or small pieces. (Torn edges blend better than cut edges.)
2. Mix your paste until smooth.
3. Dip the paper into the paste and remove any excess.
4. Apply thin layers over your form, smoothing as you work.
5. Build 3–4 layers, allowing each layer to dry slightly before adding the next.
6. Let the piece dry completely before sanding, trimming, or decorating.

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Paper Options

Choose a paper that best suits your project and desired finish.

 

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Paste Options

The glue is the magic—here are our favorites.

Recommended Mix

• 1 part glue
• 1 part water

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White School Glue (PVA)

Easy to find and inexpensive.

Excellent for most indoor projects.

Recommended Mix

• 1 part glue
• 1 part water

Add a small splash of water if needed for a smoother consistency.

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Traditional Flour Paste

A classic choice for lightweight decorative projects.

Recipe

• 1 part flour
• 3 parts water

Cook over medium heat until thickened.

Allow to cool before using.

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Tips for Success

• Tear paper instead of cutting whenever possible.
• Apply several thin layers rather than one thick layer.
• Smooth each layer with wet fingers or a soft brush.
• Allow projects to dry completely between major steps.
• Sand lightly before applying paint or decorative finishes.
• Patience creates better results.

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Decorating Options

Make it your own. The final finish is what transforms paper mache into heirloom-quality crafts.

Paint

Acrylic paints provide endless color possibilities and excellent coverage.

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Stain

Watered-down stains create warmth and a naturally aged appearance.

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Paper & Collage

Decorate with vintage papers, book pages, tissue papers, napkins, or botanical prints.

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Sealers

Protect your finished project with matte, satin, or gloss sealers.

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Metallic Finishes

Add gold leaf, metallic waxes, or metallic paints for a rich, elegant look.

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Ink & Washes

Create soft antique finishes using diluted inks and layered washes.

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Project Ideas

Explore step-by-step workshops and build your skills.

• Bowls
• Serving Trays
• Pots & Vases
• Picture Frames
• Boxes & Keepsake Jars
• Botanical Wall Art
• Figurines
• Seasonal & Holiday Projects
• ...and much more!