How to Make Paper for Molding

Use dryer lint and old paper products to make paper for molding sculptures.

There are many different uses for paper. One way people use paper is for paper molding or casting. People pour moist paper into a mold, press the water out using a sponge and let the paper dry. When the paper is removed from the mold, it is thick and hard. It creates a strong material that can be used for decorating. Producing paper for molding is a quick procedure that requires no experience or special skills. The produced paper can be used for ornaments, jewelry, sculptures or other cast items.

Things You'll Need

• Dryer lint
• Old newspaper, magazines, egg cartons or other paper items
• Water
• Blender
• Large wire food strainer
• 2 large bowls
• Sink

Instructions

1. Purchase or find an old blender by looking at thrift stores, yard sales or flea markets. The blender can't be used for food after making molding paper, so you don't want to use a good one. The paper particles will never completely come out of the blender.

2. Tear the paper products into pieces 1-inch wide by 1-inch long or smaller. Soak the paper pieces in a large bowl of hot water for at least 20 minutes.

3. Scoop up two large handfuls of wet paper, and place it in the blender. Add in a large handful of dryer lint to give the paper a smoother texture. (You can add more dryer lint if you want the molded piece to be softer.) Put 3 cups of hot water in the blender, put the lid on and blend until the paper gets smooth. If you smell a burning smell, turn the blender off immediately--you need to add more water. The motor will burn up if it is overworked, and blending paper makes it work hard.

4. Place the strainer in a sink, and dump the ground paper into the strainer. Pick up the strainer, and gently shake it. (Shaking the strainer helps the water to drain faster.) Once the water drains out, dump the moist paper into the empty bowl.

5. Repeat steps 2 through 4 until you have made enough molding paper for your project. The paper is then ready to be molded for your specific project.

Tips & Warnings

• The color of the paper when it dries will depend on the papers you use. If you use newspaper or egg cartons, it will be gray. If you use magazines and junk mail, it could end up any color or a blend of colors. Once it is dry, the paper accepts paint well, but never paint it until it is completely dry. Paints seal surfaces, and if the paper is still wet, it will mold.

References

• Kinder Art: Making Paper