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How to Make Paper Mache Stage Props

Theater companies attempting to put on an elaborate production on a small budget may want to consider paper mache as a basis for props and set-decoration pieces. Working in a paper mache medium has the advantage of being inexpensive, as well as giving you the ability to make your set pieces look exactly the way you want them to look. In addition, since the objects built are meant to be temporary, the relative flimsiness of your end result should not be a problem.

Things You'll Need

  • Roll of chicken wire
  • Wire cutters
  • Heavy-duty gloves
  • Water
  • Flour
  • Measuring cup
  • Pot
  • Stove
  • Newspaper
  • Scissors
  • Bowls
  • Paint
  • Paintbrushes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut and bend a section of your chicken wire into a shape that will serve as the basic mold for your prop.

    • 2

      Pour your water and flour into a pot in a ratio of 2 parts water to 1 part flour. Use as much of your ingredients as you think necessary.

    • 3

      Heat your pot over a low flame and mix your ingredients thoroughly until they form a fine paste. Pour the paste out into your bowls.

    • 4

      Cut your newspaper into 2-inch-wide strips. Prepare as many strips as you think will be required to cover your wire mold.

    • 5

      Dip a strip of your newspaper into the paste, covering both sides of it completely. Squeeze the extra paste back into the bowl and lay the strip over a section of your wire mold. Repeat the process, overlapping strips as you go, until the entire outside of the mold is covered in newspaper.

    • 6

      Allow the newspaper ample time to dry, then paint and decorate it in whatever colors you desire to complete the prop.

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