DLTK's Crafts for Kids
Crafting a Decorative Paper Mache Ball: A Fun and Easy DIY Project

Get ready for a fun and eco-friendly crafting project! This tutorial will guide you through creating a paper mache ball using cardboard circles and newspaper stuffing as a base.

This DIY craft project is a fantastic way to recycle old newspapers and cardboard, turning them into a unique, round structure that can be used for a variety of purposes. Whether you're interested in making ornaments, model planets, or festive decorations, this guide will provide an easy start. Let's dive in!

Materials:

 



 



 



• Old newspapers
• Cardboard
• Hot glue gun
• All-purpose white flour
• Water
• Mixing bowl
• Paintbrush
• String or a compass to draw a perfect circle
• Scissors
• Acrylic paint (optional)
• Clear acrylic sealer or varnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Create Paper Mache Paste: In a mixing bowl, combine one part flour with one part water to create a smooth, pancake-batter-like paste.
2. Prepare Cardboard Circles: Use a string or a compass to draw four identical circles on your piece of cardboard and cut them out with scissors. Cut all but one of them in half.
3. Create the Base: Glue the half circles onto the full circle using your glue gun. Crumple old newspaper into a ball that fits between your cardboard wedges. Secure the newspapers with tape if necessary.
4. Apply the Paper Mache: Tear your remaining newspaper into strips. Dip each strip into your paste, ensuring it's fully coated, and then apply the strip to your round base. Continue this process until the entire surface is covered with a layer of newspaper strips.
5. Add More Layers: Repeat the process, adding two or more layers of newspaper strips until your base is completely covered. Remember, the more layers you add, the stronger your ball will be.
6. Dry the Ball: Allow your paper mache ball to dry completely. Depending on the number of layers and your room's humidity, this could take up to 24 hours.
7. Decorate Your Ball (Optional): Once dry, you can decorate your paper mache ball using acrylic paints. Consider adding a clear acrylic sealer or varnish for a glossy finish.
8. Make a Paper Mache Bowl (Optional): A bowl full of balls makes a great DIY decoration!

Congratulations! You've successfully crafted a paper mache ball using cardboard circles. This versatile creation can be used for countless purposes and projects. Most importantly, you've explored the fun and eco-friendly world of crafting.

Continue to embrace your creativity, and happy crafting!
Leanne

Print friendly version of these instructions.