paper mache birds

I have been having fun creating this little paper mache birds.  I took some photos during the making process, see below.

I create two round newspaper balls and I cover them with masking tape.

I tape them together with more masking tape.

I cut the wings, tail and beak shapes out of a strong piece of cardboard.

I then tape them to the body with more masking tape.

I cover the wings with newspaper dipped in raw flour and paper paste.  There are great tips of how to make it here.

Once the wings are dry I cover the body with paper mache clay.  I do this using plastic gloves, they help me spread the paste without it sticking to my hands.  There is a great recipe here.

I stick the wings together with some masking tape to keep them from moving whilst drying.

Once everything is completelly dry, I cover it with evenly with a layer of gesso, and once that is dry I colour the birds with acrylic paint.  You can also put a layer of matte or glossy varnish to protect them.