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.
Will Mod Podge work for paper mache?
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!
Paper Mache Ideas
Help children develop their artistic skills with these creative paper mache projects for kids.
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.
Pumpkins
Learn how to make paper mache pumpkins using balloons, twine, and Mod Podge! This is a fun craft for fall decorating and great for families.
DIY Paper Mache Moon
This paper mache moon project is perfect for a school project or as a fun kid's room decoration!
Food On A Stick
Create these fun food on a stick toys to use when your kids are pretending like they are at the state fair! I love that baked potato.
Vehicles
Kids can make one-of-a-kind vehicles! Instructions are given for cars/trucks, a rocket, and a UFO.
Teacups
Learn how to make paper mache teacups using a soda bottle and then decorate them by decoupaging napkins to them!
Easy Bowls
Learn how to make Mod Podge paper mache bowls the easy way! If you have craft paint, kids can make these DIY bowls any color they like. So simple!
Dinosaur Mask
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!
Mini Turkey Roast Pinatas
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.
Planets
Create the whole solar system using paper mache! This would be a fun project for kids to work on as a group.
Patchwork Turtle
This little turtle is delightful! I really like that Sherri used little fabric pentagons to decorate the shell.
Air Plant Pod
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.
Bead Bracelets
Learn how to create beautiful beads and make a bracelet or necklace. You are only limited by your imagination!
Hot Air Balloons
This is one of my favorite simple crafts! Use a paper mache with Mod Podge technique to make these fun hot air balloon decorations.
Birds on Branches
Inspired by a chunky little bird on their birdfeeder, @slugs_snails_puppydogtails and her sons made these super cute birds on branches!
Burger & Fries
Here is another paper mache food tutorial. I really like these for kitchen playtime. This looks so real!
Octopus
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.
Piggy Bank
What kid wouldn't want to save money when they get to put it in a cute little piggy? They can learn about saving and have fun making the bank!
String of Pearls Plant
What could be better than a plant that doesn't die? One that your kids can help you make! Find out how here.
Star Wars Death Star Pinata
Love, love, this pinata! Looking for a perfect pinata for a Star Wars party? Look no further! I don't know if I would want to break this open...
Volcano
Here are instructions for the classic papier-mâché volcano school project. This post also has some good tips on drying paper mache projects.
Boat
How sweet is this boat? It would make a cute kid's room or beach house decoration. I love the patches on the sail!
Rainbow Pinata
Another classic paper mache project is the pinata. Follow these instructions to make one that looks like a rainbow.
Standing Bird
Create a pretty bird or two to using cardboard and papier mache. I love the adorable paper clip legs!
Animal Head
Devany's daughter made this cow head to match a stuffed animal she loves. I think she did a pretty good job, don't you?
Cake Stand
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.
Witch Mask
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.
Wobbling Bunny
This is a fun Easter activity for kids! Use a balloon to create an egg shape and make a cute little bunny.
Dollhouse Sofa
Paper mache is a great idea for making dollhouse furniture! This way you can get the exact size, shape and color you are looking for.
Platter
Kids can make and gift a cute paper mache platter! Maybe one to match the bowls from earlier?
A Head
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:
Boredom Busters • Bottle Caps • Camping • Cardboard • Christmas • Clothespins • Crafts for Boys • Crafts for Girls • Crafts at Home • Crosses • Dragons • Egg Cartons • Googly Eyes • Handprints • Mod Podge • Painting • Paper Plates • Paper Towel Rolls • Pipe Cleaners • Poinsettias • Popsicle Sticks • Rainbows • Recycled • Summer • Superhero • Toilet Paper Rolls