Modelling with Paper Mache – Basic 4 Cultural & Creative Arts Lesson Note (Third Term)

What is Paper Mache?

Paper mache is an art technique where we use pieces of paper and glue to make 3D objects and models.

Materials Needed

• Old newspapers or magazines
• Flour and water (to make paste) OR White glue
• Water
• A bowl for mixing
• Balloon or wire frame (for shape)
• Paint (for decorating)
• Brush

How to Make Paper Mache Paste

Method 1: Flour Paste

1. Mix 1 cup flour + 1 cup water
2. Stir until smooth (no lumps)
3. Add more water if too thick

Method 2: Glue Paste

1. Mix white glue + water
2. Make it like thick soup

Steps to Make Paper Mache Models

Step 1: Prepare

• Tear paper into small strips
• Make your paste
• Choose your base shape (balloon, box, bottle)

Step 2: Apply

1. Dip paper strip in paste
2. Remove extra paste with fingers
3. Stick paper on your base shape
4. Overlap strips for strength

Step 3: Build Layers

• Add 3-4 layers of paper
• Let each layer dry a little
• Make sure everything is covered

Step 4: Dry

• Leave to dry for 24 hours
• Make sure it’s completely hard

Step 5: Decorate

• Paint your model
• Add colors and designs
• Let paint dry

Things You Can Make

• Animals (fish, birds, cats)
• Bowls and containers
• Masks (for plays)
• Fruits and vegetables
• Piggy banks
• Decorative items

Safety Tips

• Keep fingers clean
• Don’t eat the paste
• Cover your workspace
• Wash hands when finished

EXERCISES

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

1. Paper mache uses pieces of ________ and glue
2. We can make paste with ________ and water
3. We should add ________ layers of paper
4. Models need to dry for ________ hours

Exercise 2: True or False

1. Paper mache makes flat pictures ____
2. We tear paper into small strips ____
3. Models dry in 2 hours ____
4. We can paint paper mache when dry ____

Exercise 3: Match the Materials

Draw lines to connect what goes together:

• Paper strips → For decorating
• Paste → For the base shape
• Paint → For sticking paper
• Balloon → Torn newspaper

Exercise 4: Number the Steps

Put these steps in the right order (1-5): ___ Decorate with paint ___ Apply paper strips with paste ___ Prepare paper and paste ___ Let dry for 24 hours ___ Build 3-4 layers

Exercise 5: Choose the Right Answer

Circle the correct answer:

1. Paper mache paste should be: Very thin / Like thick soup
2. Paper strips should: Overlap / Not touch each other
3. Models should dry: In the sun / Naturally