How to Troubleshoot Paper Mache-Covered Balloons

Identify a paper mache problem before it affects your project.

When you make a project out of paper mache, the project may not turn out the way you had envisioned due to errors in the preparation and application of the paper mache. However, by troubleshooting your paper mache project, you can correct any errors or problems before they effect how well your project turns out. You can then correct any mistakes by applying a few basic craft materials, such as masking tape or paper mache pulp.

Things You'll Need

• Flour
• Cornstarch
• Paper mache pulp
• Newspaper
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Inspect the paper mache mixture before you begin to detect if the mixture is the proper thickness and consistency. If you are using a homemade paper mache mixture of flour and cornstarch, use the proper proportions of one part flour, one part cornstarch and two parts water. Whisk the mixture for 10 minutes to ensure that the substances are combined thoroughly. If you are using a paper mache pulp mixture from a craft store, use proportions of one part paper mache pulp to one part water. Stir the mixture for three minutes, then allow it to sit for 10 minutes to congeal. If your mixture is too thick, add 1/4 cup of water until you reach a soupy consistency. If the mixture is too thin, add in 1 Tbsp. of flour or paper mache pulp until you reach the desired thickness.

2. Inspect the paper mache-covered balloon to see if it is too fragile. If you do not add enough layers of paper mache-covered newspaper, the form will be crumbly and can be crushed easily. Press your fingers against the paper-mache-covered balloon. If the covering can be dented easily, add on more layers of paper mache-covered newspaper, then let the new layers dry for 3 hours. When the paper mache is thick enough, the form will not dent when pressed.

3. Inspect the paper-mache-covered balloon to see if the shell appears smooth and even. If large lumps and creases appear, you may be cutting your newspaper strips too wide or too long. The newspaper strips should be about 1 to 2 inches wide and 6 to 8 inches long. If the paper is too wide or too long, it will have a tendency to buckle or fold when you apply the paper mache-soaked newspaper strips onto the balloon. If this occurs, cover the balloon with three to four more layers of paper-mache-covered newspaper strips that are cut to the proper size.