How to Make a Pocketbook or Purse From Paper Mache

Use water, paper mache and decorations to make your own purse.

Paper mache is a type of paper craft that turns paper material into a more durable and sturdy product. You can create a myriad of objects and art out of paper mache. One of the usable items you can create out this material is a pocketbook or purse. You can create a purse that resembles a box, such as a lunch box, handle and all. You can then customize the purse to fit the theme or outfit for which the purse coordinates. Some embellishments include painting freehand or stenciling a design on the purse or gluing items such as jewels, ribbons or other embellishments or decorations.

Things You'll Need

• Metal lunch box
• Newspaper
• Plaster gauze strips
• Water
• Bowl
• Handle
• Two hinges
• Art paint or embellishments
• Paint brush

Instructions

1. Lay out newspaper on a flat surface to protect your work area. Place a metal lunch box on top of the newspaper, which will act as the mold for your paper mache purse. Open the top of the box so you can work on creating both the top and bottom of the purse.

2. Dip a plastic gauze strip into a bowl of water. Apply the strip to the exterior area of the top of the box.

3. Repeat Step 2, overlaying one strip over the other until the top exterior portion of the metal lunch box is covered.

4. Allow the plastic gauge strips to dry completely overnight. Gently remove the paper mache from the top of the lunch box lid and set it aside.

5. Turn the lunchbox over so that the bottom of the box is facing up. Keep the lid open and face the lid down on the newspaper.

6. Place a plastic gauze strip into a bowl of water and apply it to the bottom of the metal lunch box and up over the side of the bottom of the lunch box. Repeat with new gauze strips, overlaying one strip on top of the other until you completely cover the bottom of the lunch box and sides.

7. Allow the paper mache to dry over the bottom of the lunch box for at least 24 hours. Gently pull the paper mache away from the metal box mold.

8. Attach the handle to the paper mache top of the purse.

9. Attach the top of the purse to the bottom of the purse with the two hinges.

10. Decorate the exterior of your purse with paint, décor or embellishments of your choice.

References

• Halloween Alliance: Paper Mache Purse