How to Make Paper Mache Banners

Put the name of someone special on a homemade banner.

Creating a flat banner from newspaper is fun and inexpensive. Whether the project is a for-sale sign or a banner to hang over the front door to welcome home a new baby, the possibilities are endless. The best part about paper mache is that anyone of any age can join in. Most of the ingredients can be found in the home or garage. Some latex paint, newspapers and plastic sheeting will help you get started.

Things You'll Need

• 2 newspapers
• 1 plastic sheet
• 1 18-inch by 18-inch piece of cardboard
• 1 container of paper-mache glue
• 1 plastic or glass bowl
• 1 pencil
• 1 can of red semi-gloss, latex paint
• 1 can of white semi-gloss, latex paint
• 1 can of black semi-gloss latex paint

Instructions

1. Put plastic sheeting over a flat surface and use masking tape to hold the edges down. Lay the pre-cut cardboard down on the plastic. Shred 1-inch by 6-inch pieces of newspaper by hand; don't use a pair of scissors. Place the stack to the side, then pour the paper-mache glue into a bowl.

2. Dip a newspaper strip into the glue and completely saturate. Wipe away any extra starchy glue with your fingers and apply to the cardboard. Repeat this action until the entire board is covered with a layer of wet paper mache. Apply each strip in different directions to strengthen the banner. Tuck excess strips around the edges of the cardboard to hide the edges. Allow the paper mache to dry overnight. Repeat the layering for a total of three days.

3. 

   Work together to make a banner everyone can be proud to give.

   Use the brush and paint the banner white. Allow to dry for one to two hours. Use a pencil to sketch three heart balloons with dangling strings. Paint all three hearts in red paint and allow to dry for one to two hours, Pencil in a Valentine's Day greeting or the name of someone special. Paint a black border around the hearts, the strings and the words. Allow the banner to dry for 24 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• If the banner is to be stuck into the ground, glue a piece of wood --1 inch by 36 inches -- to the back of the cardboard. To make the banner hang on a wall, place two wires on the back of the cardboard. Use paper glue or cover the back with a layer of paper mache. Seal the banner with a clear coat of polyurethane and a brush. Add a bit of cinnamon to the starchy odor of paper-mache glue.

• Paint in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space. Wear latex gloves if allergic to paint, newspaper or glue products.

References

• Kids Turn Central: Hearts and Crafts
• Papier Mache: Getting Started With Papier Mach

Resources

• Amazon: Papier Mache For Kids