How to Make Paper Mache Coffins
A paper mache coffin is an effective decorating idea for Halloween, or for a toy diorama. In order to make a paper mache coffin you must have the structure of the coffin already made, so that the paper mache can be applied over it. Wood is a sturdy and effective framework for paper mache structures. Once the paper mache dries you can paint it to make the structure look like a realistic coffin.
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Things You'll Need
- Balsa wood
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Utility craft knife
- Wood glue
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Mixing utensil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 cups boiling water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- Newspaper
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Black acrylic paint
- Paintbrush
Instructions
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1
Design the shape of the coffin on the balsa wood. Use a ruler to make equal measurements with a pencil onto the wood sheets. Decide on the shape of the coffin. For instance, some coffins are simple rectangles. Another type of coffin is the toe pincher coffin, which angles inward towards the feet and has a total of six sides. Remember to include pieces of wood for the bottom and top of the coffin as well.
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2
Cut out the balsa wood coffin with a utility craft knife. Insert the blade of the knife into the wood by pressing it down. Run the knife through the wood by moving your arm in the direction of the line being cut, without lifting up the blade. Since balsa wood is lightweight you can slice through it. Do not press too hard, however, or you can puncture the working surface beneath the wood.
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3
Glue the pieces of balsa wood together. Allow the wood to dry for two hours.
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4
Prepare the paper mache paste while the glue is drying. Set out a mixing bowl and mixing utensil. Pour 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and two cups cold water into the mixing bowl. Stir it with the utensil. Add two cups of water into a saucepan. Place the saucepan over the stove and heat it until it boils. Transfer the contents from the bowl into the boiling water and stir it up. Allow the mixture to boil again and add three tablespoons of sugar. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool. The cooler it gets, the thicker the paste becomes.
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5
Tear strips of newspaper to dip into the paper mache paste. Use your fingers to drench the newspaper in the paste and then apply it onto the balsa wood coffin. Coat the entire coffin with the paper mache. Make two layers if you want a thicker texture. Allow the paper mache to dry overnight.
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6
Sand down any rough edges of the paper mache coffin with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper. Paper mache sometimes makes peaks and valleys, and you will want your coffin to look sleek and smooth. Rub the rough spots back and forth with the sandpaper and blow the dust away.
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7
Paint the coffin black with black acrylic paint. Allow the paint to dry for four hours. Touch the paint with your finger after four hours to see if it still feels sticky or if the paint comes off on your finger.
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Tips & Warnings
If you want to make an open coffin, do not cut out a piece of wood for the lid.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
