Comments on: Paper Mache Animal Sculptures – Some Basic Tips

By: Jonni

Jonni — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:30:38 +0000

Hi Jordan. You could use the basic methods I used to make the orangutan mask, and then add the snakes around her head. I think I'd use ropes for the snakes, and stiffen them with wire. Then after you have her "hair" arranged, cover them with one or two layers of paper mache, let the whole thing dry, and paint. Hope this helps.

By: jordan

jordan — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 20:39:09 +0000

how do u make a medusa face with paper mache got stuck there plz reply as soon as possible cause doin it on monday thanks very much!

JORDAN
X X X

By: Jonni

Jonni — Sun, 30 May 2010 15:56:49 +0000

Hi Maggie. The dachshund in my new book is an advanced project, but it builds on an idea that actually makes it easier to make life-like animal sculptures. That idea is the cardboard pattern inside the armature, which helps you get the proportions right.

To make a dog sculpture that looks like your dog, draw a side view of your pet on a piece of cardboard in the same size you want your sculpture. Cut out the body and then cut the leg pieces separately. Pad them with crumpled paper and masking tape, and cover the armature with paper mache. Think of your first one as a “practice” sculpture, so you can learn the process without feeling like it has to come out perfectly. Good luck!

By: Maggie

Maggie — Sun, 30 May 2010 04:13:33 +0000

Hi Jonni, I am a 12 year old girl, I am animal crazy! I love art and creativity. I am on my way making your horse but I need the help from my dad so I’ll have to wait a while. I love dogs so much I would do anything to have one. Do you know how to make a simple, quick, artistic life looking dog? I know it’s a lot to ask but my family is very busy so if I want to make it I’m going to have to make it myself with no help. i can’t do all wood cutting or anything too hard. Don’t go to too much trouble because it’s just something fun I’d like to do. I had a look at the dashound you made and it looks just like my dog, but i think it may be a bit hard. my mum is also a teacher and she wants to do paper mache at school, she teaches grade 6 or 7 kids so maybe a dog she could do as well.

From Maggie

P.S. I love your work.

By: Jonni

Jonni — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 03:17:17 +0000

Hi Carol. I think I would start by doing a Google image search for bald eagles. An eagle at rest (without wings outspread) would be the easiest. You could sculpt the eagle using your styrofoam, and then cover it with paper strips and paste. Or you could make the eagle out of crumpled paper and masking tape, like I did when I made my Emperor penguin family. I used the paper mache clay instead of paper strips and paste, but the traditional method should work just fine. I hope this helps, Jonni

By: Carol

Carol — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 01:26:59 +0000

My daughter wants to sculpt the bald eagle for her school project. I have never done anything of the sort to even begin to know how to help her w/this. We have purchased styrofoam items and paper mache. Can you tell me where to begin and if you think these items can work in making this sculpture? A quick response is needed and much appreciated. If you could also suggest a website to reference? Thank you for any information you may have to offer.

By: Jonni

Jonni — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:34:16 +0000

Hi Again. The panda is now finished. I took tons of photos this time so you can make your own paper mache panda - click here for instructions.

By: Jonni

Jonni — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:09:44 +0000

Hi Shirlee. That sounds like a really fun project. As soon as I’ve finished the jackrabbit that I’m working on I’ll try to dig up some good reference photos. I saw a pair of pandas in the National Zoo many years ago, and they were truly impressive.

By: Shirlee

Shirlee — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 06:23:38 +0000

I really like the paper mache pig, and I was wondering if your could try to make a panda with instruction so my little cousins and I could make one. They love doing paper mache art and wish to try to make a panda. Thank you for your time.
-Shirlee

By: Jonni

Jonni — Fri, 22 May 2009 17:43:41 +0000

Hi Doreen. A paper mache horse sculpture sounds like fun, but I’ve never really done a horse. I’m willing to give it a try, if you don’t mind watching me struggle along. I’ll look for some inspiring photos and get started today.