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Paper Mache (Pumpkins/Jack O Lanterns)
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Materials:
Step 1:
You should always look up ideas first. I told my students to google "paper mache pumpkins or jack o lanterns" for some ideas.
Once you get a good picture of what you want you should keep in mind the shape of the pumpkin on this step, size will depend on how much stuffing you put into your bag. Each student gets a plastic bag and wads up paper, scratch paper, or other bags to fill it, it should be fairly firm so how much stuffing determines the size of your bag, then you should tie your bag so there is no extra space.
Step 2:
Use string to tie your bag into the pumpkin shape that you want. a few students decided they didn't want to tie their bag so their pumpkin is more round, that is fine too. You will need scissors and string for this step. Remember a pumpkin is as if there are lines connecting the middle bottom to the stem at the top.
Step 3:
Time to add your first layer of paper mache. Whether you are using homemade paste or a mixture of glue and water, same methods apply. Here are some ground rules:
1. Tear your newspaper or scrap paper into strips, it will lay down better on a round surface rather than large sheets, large sheets will create too many wrinkles.
1. Do not use a ton of paste, use just enough for it to stick to your bag, this first layer is the most trying layer. If yours is a sopping wet mess it will not hold its shape and it will not dry. Keep the paste to a minimum.
3. Try to just one thin layer around the entire surface at this time, let that dry and do another layer tomorrow. Don't overdo the first layer of paper mache.
Step 4:
Repeat the layers of paper mache everyday until it is firm enough to cut in half and remove the bag (future instructions below). If you are not going to hollow out your paper mache pumpkin and create a Jack O Lantern then you may continue on your paper mache layers every day until your pumpkin is hard when you knock on it with your knuckles and will be sturdy enough to paint or decorate without it moving or becoming damaged.
This is a finished pumpkin done without removing the insides.
Step 5:
Removing the Bag
You will cut with a box cutter or scissors around the pumpkin but leave a 3-4 inch area uncut, separate it and remove the insides. Tape it back together then continue your paper mache layers until very firm.
Step 6: Cutting
-First draw out the arts you want to cut out, preferably with a marker so that you can see it better.
-Cut with a box cutter. This can be difficult. I find that getting the blade in then using a sawing motion works best. Please be careful.
-Once you finish cutting, you can add to your structure, anything you like. Use cardboard, paper towel rolls, masking tape, newspaper, and any other materials to create the design that you like the best.
Then you will continue to paper mache over the entire structure to make it look very solid and unified.
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