Resources

CULTURAL AWARENESS SUPPLEMENT: APPENDIX

PAPIER-MACHE

Papier-mache is a modeling material made by mixing wallpaper paste with absorbent paper, such as newspaper, paper towels, paper napkins, or tissue. Cub Scouts love the messiness of papier-mache, and you shouldn't hesitate to tackle it because boys can make some useful items--such as trays, bowls, animals, figures, relief maps, napkin rings, masks, candleholders, and wastebaskets. Just spread around lots of newspapers for protection and cover the boys' uniforms with old shirts.

How-To Tips for Papier-Mache

• When using papier-mache on an object that needs to be removed after the papier-mache dries (bowl, vase, etc.), first oil or grease the object so the dried papier-mache shell will slip off easily. Petroleum jelly works very well.
• Count on a papier-mache project lasting through several den meetings.
• Let objects air-dry when possible. Heat tends to make papier-mache shrink and buckle.
• Sand objects for a smooth finish before painting. A final finish can also be made by covering with papier-mache made from paper toweling.
• Painting papier-mache: If using tempera paint, give the project an undercoat of gesso or thinned white latex paint first. Tempera-painted objects should be sprayed with a clear plastic finish or clear varnish for a protective overcoat. Acrylic paint does not require a base coat. You can also use household enamel or latex paint.

Framework for Papier-Mache

You will need some type of framework--such as chicken wire, cardboard tubes or cartons, coat hangers, or balloons--for working with papier-mache. Make a small animal figure from a framework of newspaper rolls or cardboard rolls taped together. Use various sizes of balloons to make planets for a model solar system. Mold larger items over a framework of chicken wire bent and crushed to the desired shape.

Strip Papier-Mache

This method is good for making large masks and stage props.

1. Mix wallpaper paste according to package directions. (It should be the consistency of pea soup.)
2. Tear (don't cut!) newspaper strips about 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide. The frayed edges will blend smoothly. Use wider strips for larger objects.
3. Dip the strips into the paste and run them through your fingers to remove excess paste.
4. Lay them over the framework, overlapping and in different directions. It is usually best to let each layer dry before applying another. You can use alternate layers of regular newspaper and colored comic strip paper so missed spots will show easily. The number of layers needed will depend on what you are making and how strong you need it to be. A final coat of torn paper towel strips will give an even textured surface for painting.
5. Place the object in a room where warm air circulates to let it dry.

Masks

Simple masks can dress up any skit.

Materials: 16-inch balloon, 36-inch-long heavy string, newspaper and paper towel strips, wallpaper paste

1. Inflate the balloon. Tie a knot in the end and attach a string. Suspend the balloon by tying the string to an object inside or outside. Be sure it isn't near anything that will cause it to burst.
2. Cover the balloon with several layers of newspaper papier-mache strips. Let it dry.
3. For an animal mask, add a framework for nose or ears at this time. Use a paper cup or cardboard roll for the nose, heavy cardboard for the ears. Use masking tape to fasten these to the papier-mache- covered balloon, and then cover them with paper towel papier-mache strips.
4. When the mask is dry, cut out a hole large enough so the mask fits over the head and remove the balloon. Cut eye holes in the proper position. Cut out a mouth or nose hole as needed. Also punch some smaller holes in the back for air.
5. Paint as desired. Add additional decorations, such as yarn hair, a hat, etc.