How to Make No-Cook Paper-Mache

By
Sherri Osborn
Sherri Osborn
Sherri Osborn is a crafting expert and writer with over 15 years of experience designing crafts for families and kids. She was a contributing author for two books, "Fuzzy Fun: Fabulous Pipe Cleaner Projects" and "Year-Round Crafts for Kids." Sherri also edited the "Crafters' Internet Handbook." 
Learn more about The Spruce Crafts' Editorial Process
Updated on 07/17/24
how to make no-cook paper mache paste

The Spruce

Project Overview
  • Skill Level: Kid-friendly

Traditionally, paper-mache is made using glue, boiling water, and newspaper. If you want to avoid using the stove (and spare your pots from newspaper ink stains), our no-cook method is simple and inexpensive. You only need a few supplies, most of which you probably already have around the house. So, grab the kids and dive in—paper-mache is a fun project, and they'll love the messy, goopy texture. Better yet, you'll love the easy cleanup.

Warning

Though it is uncommon, some people with sensitive skin or wheat allergies may have an allergic reaction to the flour mixture. If your child has sensitive skin or allergies, a pair of rubber gloves can help protect them.

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Watch Now: How to Make Paper-Mache

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Bowl
  • Whisk or spoon

Materials

  • 1 part all-purpose white flour
  • 2 parts water
  • Salt (optional)

Instructions

Materials and tools to make no-cook paper mache

The Spruce / Anastasiia Tretiak

  1. Combine Flour and Water

    Combine the flour and water in a large bowl and stir it well. You want the mixture to be thin, with a consistency similar to pancake batter.

    Tip

    Consistency depends on your preference. However, if your mixture is like a paste, it's too thick—add more water or flour as needed until the mix is runny like white glue.

    Water poured into large bowl with flour

    The Spruce / Anastasiia Tretiak

  2. Blend out Lumps

    Continue to mix until there are very few lumps left. Use a whisk or a hand-held blender to remove any remaining lumps.

    Flour and water mixture mixed in bowl with whisk

    The Spruce / Anastasiia Tretiak

  3. Add Salt (Optional)

    If you live in an area with high humidity, add a few tablespoons of salt to the batter to prevent mold from forming.

    Tablespoon of salt scooped into flour and water mixture

    The Spruce / Anastasiia Tretiak

  4. Use or Store

    You can use the paper-mache glue immediately for a project or store the paste in a covered bowl or jar in the refrigerator for a few days.

    Tip

    If you don't like the smell of the glue mixture, add a pinch of cinnamon for fragrance. You can also add a few drops of food coloring to the glue, if necessary, but use care because food coloring can stain fabric.

    Paper-mache mixture stored in covered bowl

    The Spruce / Anastasiia Tretiak

Fun Ways to Play With DIY Paper-Mache

You can use this paper-mache recipe to create a variety of projects. Before you start, spend a little time learning some tips and hints for mastering this kind of craft, and then let your imagination run wild. Get started with these ideas:

  • Paper-mache pinata: Make this project for any party, especially a birthday party. Put together the paper-mache pinata, let it dry, and then fill it with candy.
  • Paper-mache globe: Cover a balloon with our paper-mache mix and let it dry. Once dry, pop the balloon, and it's ready to paint with blue and green to represent the Earth. You can incorporate this craft into a science fair project with additional globes representing other planets.
  • Paper-mache volcano: Use your new paper-mache skills to create your own volcano. You can make it erupt with a red lava solution of vinegar and food coloring.
  • Paper-mache spiders: While you're getting all crafty for that Halloween party, create your own family of spiders. The technique is similar to that for the globe.
  • Paper-mache bowls: Whether you can't get enough paper-mache paste or have leftover paste from another project, paper-mache bowls are an easy option when supplies are slim. This is a useful craft that can hold all your trinkets and that you can paint in many fun ways.