How to Make Large Decorative Hanging Plates

Your redecorating is nearly complete. What would make it even perfect are some of the large (and expensive) decorative plates similar to those in the country inn that gave you so many great ideas for your new decor. To create a similar look at a fraction of the cost, make your own plates. They may only be decorative or suitable for an arrangement of artificial fruit, flowers or holiday ornaments on a special occasion. They will also work perfectly as hanging wall decor.

Things You'll Need

• A single plate or a tray for the size you want to copy Aluminum foil or heavy plastic wrap (both if your plate/tray has a deep bottom rim) Bucket Wheat-paste mix or wallpaper-paste mix Newspaper strips Plain white tissue paper Protected work surface Scissors or utility knife Acrylic paint Additional paint colors for decoration Sponge brushes Clear plastic art-finishing spray

Instructions

Making Plates

1. Turn your single plate face down on a protected surface. If your plate has a very deep bottom rim, you can cover the plate bottom with aluminum foil and plastic in order to diminish the deep ridge, or you can turn the plate over and work on its top surface. If working with your plate face up, cover it with plastic to protect the surface. This is the mold for your papier mache replica plates.

2. Mix paste in a bucket according to package directions. Add newspaper strips a few at a time to soak with paste. Lay strips across the mold and press gently against the surface. You can do this criss-cross or in a radial pattern--whichever produces smooth results for you. Plan on 3-4 layers of strips to give your plate a stable shape. Let each layer of strips dry before adding the next one. Press out air bubbles and bumps in each layer before adding another. Let the ends of newspaper hang over the edge of the mold.

3. Remove dry plate from the mold and decide whether you need more layers of newspaper to make it stable. If you have finished the newspaper layers, add a final layer of plain tissue paper to the top face of the plate, which will give you a smooth, unlined painting surface. Cut tissue lengths slightly larger than the plate, spread a thin layer of paste on the dry papier mache plate and apply tissue. Add a second layer if needed for a smooth surface. Let dry thoroughly. Repeat steps 1-3 to make as many plates as you want. If you're new to this process, consider making an extra plate to practice painting and/or decoupage ideas.

Finishing Your Plates

1. Trim dried plates with scissors or a utility knife. You may find this easiest if you trace the mold-plate rim onto your tissue layer with a pencil.

2. Apply a coat of acrylic paint to the backs of your plates. Let dry. Apply a second coat if needed. Let dry.

3. Paint the top surfaces of your plates. Keep strokes smooth and apply a thin layer of paint. Let dry and add a second coat if needed. (If you made a practice plate, you can paint the top surface only.) Let plates dry thoroughly--overnight is enough time.

4. Add decorative details, either with paint or other materials, like decoupage paper and glue.

5. Finish your plates with a clear plastic spray, usually available in craft or art supply stores. This will make plates less sensitive to dust and give them a glazed look. They are now ready to hang!

Tips & Warnings

• Working in thin layers is the secret to all successful papier mache projects, along with adequate drying. Lumps, bubbles and dips are almost always caused by the failure to allow time enough for all moisture to evaporate. A slow-but-steady pace produces smooth surfaces and lessens the need to patch problem areas. Pre-made paste can be covered tightly with plastic wrap to be used the next day. Stir it and add an extra spoonful or two of water to get it ready to go again.

• Remember to provide good ventilation in your work area when using any liquid paint or plastic spray. Follow all cautions on cans of plastic finishing sprays.