OtterKnow Kids Encyclopedia

Making papier-mâché is easy. First, you mix flour and water together to make a smooth paste. Some people use white glue mixed with a little water instead.

Next, tear newspaper into long strips. Dip each strip into the paste and squeeze off the extra goo with your fingers. Then lay the wet strips over a shape like a balloon or a bowl. Keep adding layers of strips until the whole shape is covered. Let it dry completely. This can take a whole day! Once it is dry and hard, you can paint it with bright colors.

• Papier-mâché was invented in China about 2,000 years ago. People used it to make helmets for soldiers!
• The French name means “chewed paper,” but you do not actually chew the paper.
• In Mexico, people make giant piñatas from papier-mâché for birthday parties and holidays.
• Some artists make huge parade floats out of papier-mâché. The floats can be as big as a bus!
• You can use old newspapers and scrap paper, so papier-mâché is a great way to recycle.