Question: Paper Mache boxes

Hello,
I bought a paper mache box that is shaped like a book (Joannes) that I would like to practice with for future gifts. I can't seem to find a lot of information about how to do this on the internet.

I love leopard print, anything Asian, and music print so I bought some paper that I may want to use. What type of adhesive would be the best for this and can I paint paper mache? If anyone has any of these in their gallery, I'd love to see them! Thanks Beth

You can totally paint paper mache!! I used to do boxes, but gave them all as gifts, and unfortunately I do not have any pictures.

To paint them, just use regular craft/acrylic paint (I just used the little bottles that are less than a dollar at Michael's and they turned out great!). Sponge tip brushes work well. And paper mache dries fast, too.

As for adhesive, I just used decoupage glue or regular craft glue (like Aleene's). Just pour a little on a disposable plate (or similar surface) and use a sponge-tip brush to apply it, very thinly. If you use the decoupage glue, you can apply that on top of the paper, too, to give it a sort of glossy finish and add a little protection to your paper.

Hope that helps! Be sure to show us some pictures of your finished projects!

Thank you so much-you are sort of a neighbor! I've done wood before but wasn't sure about the paper mache. I appreciate it! When I'm done, if it's good, I'll put it in my gallery!

You can do literally ANYTHING to those paper mache goodies. Just think of it as a 3-D scrapbook, canvas, or collage.

You can paint on them using pretty much anything -- though if you want really bright colors, prime with Gesso beforehand. That way, you'll use less paint to get a bright color. Glazes, acrylics, oils -- even markers -- all work.

Mod Podge works, as does gel medium, PVA, or pretty much any glue, and Mod Podge now has different finishes available, including a sparklie one. Some paper will stretch with these, so be careful to smooth the paper out to remove bubbles and make sure you get it fully attached. A coat over the top helps seal it. Any paper can be used, and of any weight as well -- stiffer papers just have to be cut or torn to size a bit since they don't bend as well.

If you've ever altered a book, especially with the blank you chose, this is pretty much the same thing.

This is a paper mache box from Michaels. I painted it with acrylic craft paint, the ribbon was run theough my Xyron X. I gave this to my mom, full of homemade cards. I also made one for myself, it's in my gallery under scraproom.

Altered Box and Homemade cards By Shutterbugg