How to Make Paper Mache Paste From Scratch

Paper mache projects require paste, which you can make easily at home.

Paste is necessary for any paper mache project. Often, people will create this paste using a mixture of white glue and water, but this is not always possible. Fortunately, by using ingredients you already have in your cupboard you can make paste that works just as well and without too much of an extra time investment.

Things You'll Need

• Flour
• Water
• Salt
• Cinnamon
• Pan
• Spoon

Instructions

1. Mix flour and water together in a saucepan over medium heat on your stove. Use 1 tablespoon of flour for every cup of water.

2. Stir the flour and water until there the flour isn't lumpy, then increase the stove's heat and bring the mixture to a boil, continuing to stir.

3. Add salt and cinnamon. Use 1/4 teaspoon of each per one cup of water you used. The salt minimizes the risk that your paper mache creation will mold later on, and the cinnamon makes the mixture smell more pleasant. Both are optional.

4. Remove the mixture from heat and allow it to cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Once it's cool enough to touch, it's ready to use.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't like the consistency of the finished product, experiment with adding slightly more or less flour to your next batch. There is no one correct consistency for paper mache paste, just so long as it isn't so thick or thin as to no longer serve its purpose.

References

• Ultimate Paper Mache: Paper Mache Recipes
• DLTK's Crafts For Kids: How To Paper Mache