Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make pulp for papier mache ?


  • 1. Tear up newspaper into little pieces and soak in water overnight.
  • 2. Some people then boil up the soaking newspaper to loosen the fibres further, I don`t bother with this and just whisk up the newspaper with an electric hand blender.
  • 3. Squeeze out most of the water, I usually use a sieve and then my hands.
  • 4. Add wallpaper paste to the moist newspaper and mix thoroughly.
  • 5. Use immediately or place in an air tight container. You`ll need to experiment to get the consistency right, have fun.


    How do I stop my pulp going off ?


    The only way to stop papier mache from going mildewy is to use wallpaper adhesive which contains an antifungal agent which may make it unsuitable for very young children. It`s when you use flour and water to make papier mache, then it goes off!


    What is the best paper to use for covering balloons etc..?

    You can use any type of paper, brown paper is thicker so you don`t need as many layers. I suggest using between 6 and 8 layers of newspaper, preferably doing 1 or 2 layers at a time, making sure they`re completely dry before continuing.


    Are there any books on papier mache ?

    There are many books on the subject, one I can recommend is ` Papier Mache Style` by Alex MacCormick. There are so many methods with papier mache such as layering strips of paper over a balloon ( to make a vase), or making a pulp ( which is how I made the little cats). Do give it a go!