Here are some creative paper mache ideas that kids can make at home. From animals to food, these projects are perfect for developing their artistic skills.
When you think about paper mache (aka papier-mâché or papier mache), the first thing that probably comes to mind is MESSY — and you would be right.
Paper mache involves dipping newspaper or magazine strips (or other paper) into a liquid-y, glue type mixture that will help the paper stick to a surface.
It can drip everywhere and create a mess, but it is also super exciting for kids to use to create!
The most popular crafts you may think of when talking about paper mache are pinatas, masks, and those erupting volcanoes you made in school.
However, there are so many other things you can make using this technique. I’ve collected a bunch of fun ideas and listed them for you below.
It is time to get a little messy and a lot of creative with some paper mache ideas!
From cute animal piggy banks to giant paper mache hot air balloons (okay, maybe not that giant), I’ve gathered a few fun ideas that will keep your kids entertained for hours.
Absolutely! You can use it straight out of the bottle, or if you find that it needs to be thinned a little bit, I would do that with water.
Normally I would never suggest watering down a decoupage medium, but we’re talking about kids’ crafts here. You can seal it when it’s complete with full strength Mod Podge if you decide to keep the item.
So grab your glue, some newspaper, and let’s get messy. Let me know what you think about these projects in the comments!
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Hats
Kids can make their own fun hats for playtime using papier mache! A few different options are shown, but I think this sheriff's hat is my favorite. It reminds me of the one Rick Grimes wears in The Walking Dead.
Why buy a costume for Halloween when you can have fun making one? Find out how to make a head for a T-Rex. Use similar steps to make pretty much any animal you like!
Pinatas aren't usually associated with Thanksgiving, but now they definitely will. Make a mini pinata filled with goodies for the kid's table! Each could get their own or just make a large one for the table.
Air plants just scream for cute little ways to display them! This paper mache pod is definitely one of them. You could make a few since your kids will probably want to paint some in fun colors.
Lucy made this creepy octopus as a Halloween decoration for her house. I love it! I may want to make a smaller (less creepy) one to keep out year-round.
I can't believe these were made from cardboard and some kitchen ingredients! Kids can help you make these cake stands and paint them for some very unique party or home decorating.
Find out how to DIY your own witch mask using the gauze technique. This is a fun Halloween craft for older kids; they will really enjoy making and decorating their own mask.
I applaud the intent for this project — Kelly decided to make a paper mache version of herself to do Zoom meetings and video calls she didn't want to do during the pandemic shut down. This post is quite a funny read!
If you enjoyed this list of paper mache ideas for kids, let me know in the comments! You will also love these other popular craft collections for children:
