How to Make a Papier-Mache Time Capsule
Time capsules contain mementoes or information that relates to a specific period of time, such as photographs, letters, food packaging, magazines and tape or CD recordings. The time capsule is traditionally buried in the ground until a certain amount of time has passed, when it is dug up and the contents are reviewed. A papier-mache time capsule is a simple craft project to make with kids, and it can be constructed entirely from common household items.
Things You'll Need
- Newspaper
- Bowl
- Flour
- Water
- Large balloon
- Scissors
- Olive oil
- Spoon
- Mementoes
- Masking tape
Instructions
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1
Measure and pour 1 cup of flour into the bowl. Pour 3 cups of warm water into the bowl. Stir the mixture until you get a smooth paste.
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2
Cut the newspaper into many thin strips approximately 2 inches wide. It does not matter if the strips are uneven or different lengths.
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3
Lay several sheets of newspaper out to protect your work space. Inflate the balloon and tie a single knot in the bottom of it. Rub the surface of the balloon with a thin layer of olive oil.
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4
Dip a strip of newspaper into the glue mixture and allow the glue to seep into it for 10 seconds. Remove the newspaper and squeeze any excess glue back into the bowl. Place the strip of newspaper over the balloon. Repeat this technique until the entire balloon is covered with six to 10 layers of papier-mache.
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5
Leave the papier-mache balloon to dry in a warm place, such as an airing cupboard. Depending on the temperature of the room, it could take between six and 24 hours to dry.
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6
Stab the center of the dry papier-mache with a scissor blade. Cut around the middle of the time capsule to form two halves. Fill the time capsule with your chosen mementoes.
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7
Place the top half of the capsule on the bottom half. Adhere several pieces of masking tape over the edges to hold the halves in place. Dip the newspaper strips into the glue, wipe off any excess glue and repeat the layering technique over the center of the time capsule. Let the capsule air dry before storing it in the place in which you plan to keep it until the time arrives for opening the capsule. When the time arrives, the capsule can be cut open to reveal the mementoes inside.
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Tips & Warnings
The outside of the time capsule can be decorated with acrylic paints.
A papier-mache time capsule will not be as long lasting as plastic or metal time capsules. It also should not be buried in the ground, as moisture from rain and soil can cause it to disintegrate.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
