Comments on: How to Make a Paper Mache Whale Wall Hanging

By: Jonni

Jonni — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:15:39 +0000

Sarah, I don't teach kids, so I am probably not the right person to ask. Will they be doing the project together, or will everyone be making their own? I had trouble with the whale because it was hard to get a firm base for the paper mache when padding a big flat object. If you don't add padding and just make the paper mache over a cardboard cutout, be sure to seal the cardboard well so it doesn't warp while the paper mache dries. Have you seen James Cochrane's book Paper Sculpture: Over 25 Cute and Quirky Paper Mache Projects? I think if I was starting out with a paper mache project for the first time, I'd use one of his flat cutout projects. It would give you a feel for the problems you'll encounter with a class. And the kids will love the results, too.

By: Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:30:54 +0000

Hi there,

I am wanting to do this project with my class, they are 10 – 11 years old. Do you think this will be a suitable project? Do you have any hints that might be useful for me? I’m feeling very nervous about this paper mache whale project….

Thanks,
Sarah Johnson

By: Jonni

Jonni — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:15:20 +0000

Yes, if you live in a humid environment, paper mache can attract fungi. Be sure to let it dry completely, and then seal it with varnish. Using diluted white glue instead of flour and water paste can also help.

By: franceska

franceska — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:08:36 +0000

Hello,
i just startet with papiemache…And i love it….I make lamps.., i start with using glue for tappets..My question is if i mix flour up is there not the posibility that it can beginn to mildew?

thank you so much for the tutorials..!

By: Jonni

Jonni — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 22:43:46 +0000

Hi Karla. I think I bought the picture hangars at the local BiMart. They have a lot of different styles in the hardware section.

By: karla

karla — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 22:38:37 +0000

Hi, your whale is so beautiful!!!! congratulations
i just have a little doubt where do you get the picture hangers because I need something that does not screw.
Thanks

By: Jonni

Jonni — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:31:18 +0000

You’re most certainly welcome. Be sure to post a photo of your son’s new whale when it’s done.

By: Nilda

Nilda — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:20:18 +0000

Hi, this is my first time here. My son who will be 5 in a week adores whales. He constantly reminds his dad and I that the sperm whale is “the largest toothed animal” and two nights ago I realized that I’m passing up on a wonderful opportunity to make a papier mache whale with him. I love your whale, and though I suspect ours will not compare I can’t wait to start on the project. Thanks so much for your tutorial!!!

By: Jonni

Jonni — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 19:42:03 +0000

You’re certainly welcome! I hope you’ll let us see how your mum’s present turns out (after she sees it first, of course).

By: Livvy

Livvy — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 19:24:19 +0000

Oh wow.
This has really inspired me! I’m a massive Whale enthusiast (and I found this site by gratuitously googling baby sperm whales). I’ve been looking for something unique to make for my mum for christmas and now, I’m actually inspired to give paper mache a go!!
Thanks! x