How to Paper Mache with Foam Core

Foam core is a great choice to apply paper mache over. It is strong, easy to cut, and holds its shape very well. While it is not ideal when making round paper mache objects, 3-dimensional polyhedrons such as squares, rectangles, and triangles that comprise a structure are easily made with foam core.

Step 1 - Build Your Foam Core Object

Before you can apply paper mache over an object, it must be built. Foam core is easily cut and glued together to form almost any kind of 3-dimensional shape. Spheres and 3-D ovals are not possible with a foam core board. For that, you should use pre-made polystyrene shapes. Foam core can, however, be stacked in layers and carved into irregular shapes. However you do it, before applying paper mache be sure the foam core object is dry and intact.

Step 2 - Tear Up the Brown Bags

When you are ready to paper mache, tear up a brown paper bag or two into thin strips. Don’t cut them. Tearing creates ripped edges that bond better with the paper mache. The strips should be no wider than 2 inches. Smaller pieces are okay. Large pieces are harder to stick unless the surface is broad and flat.

Step 3 - Mix the Paste

Depending on how much you have to apply, pour half of the Golden Harvest wallpaper paste into the bucket and begin to add water. Stir it continually with a stir stick. Its consistency should end up about equal slightly runny oatmeal. It can be runnier, although it won’t form as strong a bond. Get the big chunks of dry paste smoothed out.

Step 4 - Dip in Strips and Apply

One piece of torn paper at a time, dip the brown bag strip into the paper mache mixture and saturate it. Run two fingers along it lengthwise to squeeze off the excess and lay the strip onto the foam core structure. Stick it down entirely on the foam object, smoothing it out on flat spots and over edges and in between corners.

Step 5 - Cover One Layer at a Time

Cover the entire object with a single layer of paper mache and let it dry for at least half an hour. You can then apply a second layer in the same way. If it helps, mark the first layer in places to let you know you have covered the first layer completely. Depending on the strength you desire, you can continue to cover it with subsequent layers. Let the whole thing dry sufficiently.

After you are satisfied with the final paper mache result, you can either leave the foam core structure inside or you can slice the dried paper mache in half with a razor knife. This allows you to remove the foam core object, break it down, and reuse its pieces. Glue the halves back together, let it dry, and your paper mache is ready to paint.