How to Make a Globe of the Earth

Papier Mache Globe of the Earth

Creating a globe of the Earth is a fun and creative way to teach children about Art, Geography, History, and Geometry. You can make a globe as a school project, or just for enjoyment. Kids of all ages can make this, but be prepared to get messy. All of the supplies you need are available at any arts or crafts supply store, such as Blick Art Materials (see the link in the Resources section).

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Flour
• Water
• Large bowl
• Pot
• Large balloon
• Acrylic paint
• Paintbrush
• Map of the Earth

Instructions

1. 

   Create a flour paste to use as glue for the newspaper. Mix together 1 cup of flour and 1 cup of water in a large bowl. Once the mixture is thoroughly mixed, pour it into a pot and heat it over medium heat on a stove. Pour in 4 more cups of water and simmer between 2-4 minutes, stirring constantly. Turn the heat off and let the paste cool completely before using it.

2. 

   Using your hands, rip newspaper into long strips. Make the strips of paper at least 1 and a half inch wide. Children can help with this step and will enjoy tearing the paper. Place the paper in a pile in the center of the table or workspace.

3. 

   Inflate a large balloon, one per child, and knot the end tightly. An adult may need to help young children blow up the balloon. Once the balloon is inflated, dip strips of newspaper into the flour paste and apply it to the outside of the balloon. For a thicker globe, add at least four layers of pasted newspaper to the balloon. Allow the balloon to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

4. 

   Paint the outside ball with blue acrylic paint, covering it completely. Acrylic paint dries quickly and is easy for children to use. Let the blue paint dry. Then, show the children a picture of the continents and have the children paint them, using green paint. Let the green paint dry.

Resources

• Blick Art Materials
• Enchanted Learning - Paper Mache Globe