Date: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 11:45:30 -0800
Subject: Re: PUPT: Papier Mache Pulp


on 4/3/02 8:36 AM, Puppet Showplace at puppetshowplace-AT-earthlink.net wrote:

> This is for a workshop for 8-11 year-olds. We'll be making some small rod
> puppets with springs for the arms and legs, and papier mache pulp, or clay,
> for the head, body, hands and feet.
> 
> Has anyone worked with papier mache pulp?
> How easy is it to make and work with?
> How long would small bits (thumb-sized) take to dry? (we have hours, to
> overnight if necessary. )
> Would it be better to use a fast-drying clay?
> 
> 
> 
> Curious,
> Aoife
> 
> 
> 
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I use paper mache pulp all the time.  I pulverize newsprint in a blender.
(Blender will not be able to be used for food again.)  Use plenty of water
in the blender, about 3 cups for one cup of torn paper pieces.  Squeeze pulp
to get most of water out. The more water that is left in the longer it will
take to dry. Then mix with paste (1 c. flour, 1 c. sugar, 4 c. water and
cook over medium heat stirring constantly until it is consistency of
pudding.  Normally I add a drop of oil of cloves to prevent fermenting, but
since you are working with children don't add any because it is toxic and
the kids may try eating the paste.)  Unfortunately it takes a long time to
dry, 1-3 weeks. I've never used the kind of pulp that you buy, but I do know
that it already has the paste mixed into it.  People have told me, that it
can be difficult getting the right consistency and it doesn't go very far.
Hope this helps.  If I were you, I would use Paperclay.  It is an air dried
sculpting material or if you have access to an oven, use Fimo or Sculpy
modeling material.  Valerie



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