Papier mâché or paper mache is a popular crafting technique that uses paper and a paste to create a variety of objects.  Paper Mache is the layering of moistened paper and other materials onto a blank surface like a balloon. The adhesive used to wet the paper acts as a binding agent. As the paper dries, the outer shell hardens, which can then be painted and decorated. 

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Students need to create a sturdy base to hold paper mache. Not all the pieces maybe can fit together neatly. But they can practice being a structural engineer as figure out how to fill in areas that do not fit together nicely.  

This project is a great way to explore how shapes fit together and to practice troubleshooting skills in real life.

 

Paper mache is very forgiving so even though you will most likely encounter problems as you work on your project, you can also find lots of ways to fix those problems and bring their sculpture to successful completion. 

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This activities doesn’t just help you create paper mache sculptures. When you use and reuse some materials like old paper or recycling bottles you take care of our planet and share a reason to make art.