Making paper mache book boxes is very enjoyable and artistic and it is an excellent way of reusing scrap items into unique and useful items easy to make that are ornamental and a great way of asserting creativity. Amateur or professional, this laid down method will assist you in creating this elegant paper mache book box from basic raw materials.
Materials Needed
To get started, gather the following materials:To get started, gather the following materials:
Cardboard: As for the outer shell of the box and book cover.
Newspaper or Paper Mache Pulp: To produce the paper mache laminates.
Flour and Water: Or how to make the paper mache paste needed to stiffen the porous paper for use in the project.
Paint and Brushes: To be used in the last activity as shavings for the decoration of the finished book box.
Glue: To drive the screws which are used in assembling the parts.
Scissors and Craft Knife: For cutting cardboard at well and also for giving a very neat trim to edges.
Ruler and Pencil: It has numbers for measuring and to mark on.
Step 1: It involves establishing the basic groundwork of the framework.
The first step in making the book box will be to fold pieces of cardboard to form the base of the book box. You’ll need three main parts: These include; front cover, back cover, and the spine part of the cover.
Front and Back Covers: Take two rectangular cardboard boxes and cut them to the size close to the size of the book box you want to create. In addition, the dimensions should be the same for both pieces of music.
Spine: Place a long and narrow rectangle piece of cardboard that will be the back of the book. In terms of width, it will depend on the thickness of the box you intend to create. For better measurement, it is better to use a ruler and pencil to earn your cardboard before you cut it.
Step 2: In order to pack the books, first of all, build a book box.
To complete the book, attach the spine piece to the front and back covers using a glue stick. Place glue on both the edges of the spine piece and place it over the covers so that the edges will match.
After the application of glue it is important to wait until it is through drying to the next step. This might take a few hours or even a whole night, depending on the type of glue that was used.
Step 3: Apply as many layers of Paper Mache as needed on the figure.
It should be noted that to make the paper mache paste, one should combine the equal proportions of the flour and water and mix them well until you get a thick consistency like glue. If the pulp used is the paper mache, then one is supposed to follow the instructions indicated on the package.
Tear the Paper: Shred your newspaper or paper to as thin as possible to obtain small strips of paper. Do not cut, as tearing gives rise to edges with fibers which can then be used when layering.
Apply the Paste: Immerse the thin pulp in the paste and spread it on to the required shape of cardboard frame. Place strips one on top of another and extend to the spine and edges of the journal.
Drying: Let the first layer too dry to minimize the formation of blisters. It might take a day to complete this. Once the paper mache piece is dry, more layers of paper mache can be applied for a tougher product. Normally one wants to have about three to four layers.
It’s time for the 4th step sanding and painting:
After the paper mache is completely looked for any lumps or uneven surface and smoothen them by sanding the surface lightly. This will give you a smooth finish for painting and sanding will not be necessary again because of the coat of paint.
Base Coat: Paint the book box starting by using a base color that shall cover the entire book box. Thus, the color selected should harmonize with the remaining colors in the design. Allow this coat to dry and become ready for the next layer to be applied.
Design and Decoration: It is advisable to paint the surface as you desire by designing any graphics or paintings on the wall after you are done with applying the base coat. In case you want to get even more detailed with your creations, employ brushes, or even stencils if available. These decorations should be unique in a way and should be chosen in accordance with the names of each family.
Step 5: Final Touches
However, if the paint is fully set, then you can proceed and apply finishes on your paper mache boxes. One should use a clear acrylic sealer to seal the paint job and also to give the box a high-gloss type of finish. It is also possible you may wish to introduce some more accessories such as papers, fabrics, or even any other small item to beautify it.
Conclusion
The Activity of making the paper mache book boxes is a fun and creative activity encompasses crafting skill and artistic work. With these procedures, you should be able to make gorgeously crafted and practical boxes from the simple materials like cardboard and paper to store precious elements or as creative accessories. Have fun and demonstrate the creativity in each of the steps of creating your paper mache box.
