Cut the chicken wire to your desired size with the wire cutter. Roll the wire into a tube. Tie the edges together with 3-inch lengths of chicken wire placed at 3-inch intervals.
Cut four slits into each of the wire tube's ends, about 1 to 2 inches shorter than the tube's diameter, creating four end flaps. Bend the flaps in.
Tie the flaps together at the ends and sides with 3-inch floral wire pieces. Because the flaps are shorter than the tube's diameter, the tube will bend into a more natural rock shape.
Push in parts of the long and short sides of the chicken wire tube in a few places. This way, you will give your scenery rock a more natural look.
Tear the newspaper into roughly 1-inch-wide strips. Be sure to tear the paper with the grain. Tearing the paper instead of cutting it will give the strips a slightly irregular shape, adding extra stability to the papier-mâché layers.
Mix the papier-mâché glue in your bucket. Use two parts school glue to one part water.
Immerse the newspaper strips completely in the glue before placing them on the substructure. Wipe off the excess with your fingers. Place the strips on the substructure in a crisscross fashion until it is completely covered. Let the glue dry completely.
Apply three additional papier-mâché layers. Let the glue dry fully after applying each layer.
Paint the rock with tempera paints. When choosing your colors, keep in mind that not all rocks are gray.