HOLIDAY CRAFTS
TIPS AND TECHNIQUES - Paper Mache
Almost any project included in my craft pages that is in the shape of a cone is handmade cheaply. I start with a styrofoam cone wrapped securely with saran type wrap. Then spray with inexpensive cooking spray. Use torn strips of newspaper (or brown bags, misc, scrap paper) to make paper mache. Dip the strips in a thick white glue and water mix, pull through fingers to take excess glue mix off, then place around wrapped shape. Change directions with strips frequently to interlock. When wrapped with several layers, allow to dry. I can't give you a time frame for this as it depends on humity, depth of paper mache, etc. It will take at least overnight and possibly longer. When the outside is firmly dry and solid, then pull gently from base mold. Then it will be necessary to allow the inside to dry. Sounds like a long process but advance planning will have your shapes ready for painting, embellishments, wrapping with cloth, etc. This technique can be used on any number of base forms.
'Santa Cone Claus'
These figures were made on paper mache cones (made using above techniques). They are wrapped in torn strips of cloth that are approx. 1" strips. Hair and beards can be made from a multitude of materials. Cord-separated and fluffed; cotton mop strands separated and brushed(gently); jute; yarn; try whatever you have available. It is not necessary to purchase commercial doll hair products.Black electrical tape works great for Santa belts as it is both sticky and strechy. The arms are one strip of fabric, knotted in the middle and glued on each side. For a face, I used a circle of antique white fabric cloth and painted the face. You could use google eyes or buttons for eyes. Use blush and a q-tip to apply rosy cheeks. I embellished with patches and buttons because that's what I had and what I like. You can use anything!!!!
FUNNEL SANTA'
The base for this mache Santa was a large funnel. Paint and trim to your own taste and imagination. Gift bag is brown bag, wrinkled, sponge painted with various shades of brown, tied with jute. Stick anything out of the top and glue to side.
'RUDOLPH ORNAMENT'
Simple but cute and quick-use tan chenille stems for antlers, arms and legs. Head is wooden ball and body is wooden candle cup. Hoofs are black pony beads. Hanger is jute.
'CRAFT STICK ORNAMENT'
The larger size craft sticks are great for making quick and easy ornaments. Santas, snowmen, etc. Texture can be provided in a variety of ways but one is to use flour, salt and water to form a thick paste. Use another craft stick to peak (as in pie meringue) You can use acrylic paint to replace some of the water if you want to color your texture material before applying. My scarves and hats were made with some very old, very ugly double knit green fabric that I had for years, knowing someday I would have a use for it. Last holiday season it was invaluable for making knit look items. I am an addicted pack rat if you haven't guessed by now.
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 Christmas 1997
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