An upcycling technique: Paper pulp is an arts and crafts practice that both contributes to the environment and is very economical by upcycling clean waste paper. Paper pulp technique is the pulp prepared by mixing end-of-life and clean papers with water and glue; makes it possible to make a variety of art and decorative projects. In this article, we will explore in detail the methods of paper pulp making, its history and how you can use it in creative projects.
First, let’s examine the word papier-mâché, it is a French phrase and means “chewed paper”. While “Papier” means paper, the word “mâché” is derived from the verb “mâcher” meaning to chew. This mold refers to the softening of papers with water or glue, turning them into dough and shaping this dough. This pattern, which originates from French, has become widely used in many languages over time and has become a universal term to describe papier-mâché art today.
What are the methods of preparing paper pulp?
Pulp can be prepared by two main methods; paper strips method and paper pulp method. Here are the details of both methods.
1. Making Paper Pulp Using Paper Strips Method
This method of pulping is performed by dipping strips of paper in an adhesive mixture and gluing them onto a form. Here are the steps:
Materials Needed: Old papers (newspaper, magazine), glue (water and flour mixture or PVA glue), a form (balloon, wire frame or other support).
Preparation Steps: The prepared paper strips are dipped into the adhesive mixture. The strips are glued onto the form and allowed to dry. After drying, the surface is sanded smooth and colored or varnished.
Recommendations: You can protect the surface by using waterproof paint and you should ensure that the paper strips dry completely.
2. Preparing Paper Pulp Using the Paper Pulping Method
In this method, shredded papers are made wet by soaking them in water or boiling them. The resulting dough is directly shaped into the desired form. Here are the steps:
Materials Required: Old papers, water, glue (water and flour mixture or PVA glue).
Preparation Steps: Papers are soaked in water or boiled and turned into pulp. Excess remaining water is drained and glue is added. The dough is shaped into the desired form and allowed to dry.
Recommendations: You can directly shape small objects and use a support form for large projects. In order not to forget to be more environmentally friendly, the soaking method should be preferred instead of the boiling method.
What are the advantages of paper pulp?
Paper mache art offers many advantages:
Environmentally Friendly: Reduces paper waste by upcycling waste paper. We should also not forget that we can turn this type of waste into interesting products that will accompany our lives for a long time.
Economical: As with most upcycling applications, pulp is an ideal option for low-cost projects.
Creative: It can be used in many different ways and offers unlimited creativity.
Fun: It is a very entertaining activity for both children and adults.
Some Creative Projects You Can Do with Paper Pulp
- Decorative Plates and Bowls Stylish and functional plates and bowls can be created with paper pulp.
Plate Making: The pulp is spread on a plate mold, pressed well and allowed to dry. After drying, the plate surface is sanded and colored. An example from Reppatcher Paperpulp Deco: Lobster
Bowl Making: The dough is shaped using the bowl mold and is ready for use after it dries. An example from Reppatcher Aydami: Tinto
- Sculptures and Figures You can make various sculptures and figures with paper pulp.
Animal Figures: You can make cute animal figures. You can add details with brushes and paints.
Abstract Sculptures: You can create modern works of art by creating abstract forms. You can complete it with colorful paints and varnishes.
You can discover magnificent sculptures and figures made of paper pulp by examining Reppatcher Nora Home Design.
- Wall Decorations You can use paper pulp to make wall decorations.
Colored Boards: Paper pulp is spread on a frame and various shapes are cut out. These shapes are pasted on a board to create decorative decorations.
Relief Art: You can make nature-themed reliefs or geometric patterns on your walls.
The History of Paper Pulp: From Tradition to Modern Art
Paper pulp has been used for different purposes in different cultures and periods:
History of Paper Pulp in China B.C. Around 200 types of paper pulp began to be used. During the Han Dynasty, paper pulp was used to make warrior helmets, mirror boxes, and ceremonial masks.
Ancient Egypt and the Middle East In ancient Egypt, coffins and death masks were often made with sheets plastered over papyrus or linen. In the Middle East, paper pulp was widely used to produce small boxes and decorative items.
Use of Paper Pulp in Kashmir and Europe In Kashmir, the paper pulp technique was adopted in the 14th century and various decorative items were produced. In Europe, it has been used in paper pulp, toys and architectural decoration since the 16th century.
Traditional Practices in Mexico In Mexico, papier-mâché is among the traditional crafts and often piñatas, masks, and various decorations for festivals are made from papier-mâché.
Paper pulp art maintains its importance as an environmentally friendly and economical art form from past to present. Realizing creative projects by repurposing old papers provides both aesthetic and functional results. To explore various art projects with paper pulp and more, discover Reppatchers: Paperpulp Deco, Aydami, Oorjaa and Nora Home Design.
