From the page: The tube that holds infinite possibilities
Idea 5
Paper-mâché bowl
Paper-mâché was born in ancient China and became all the rage in Victorian Europe, when artisans molded trays and little boxes that rivaled turned wood in beauty. The secret lies in the paper fibers: soaked in glue, they intertwine and, when dry, form a rigid, lightweight shell — like brand-new cardboard, but in whatever shape you want.
What you need
- A cardboard tube chopped into small pieces
- Hot water
- White glue
- A blender or fork to break down the fibers
- A sieve or thin cloth to drain
- A glass jar or bowl as a mold
- Petroleum jelly or plastic wrap to grease the mold
- Paint and varnish for the finish
How to make it
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1
Chop the tube into small pieces and soak in hot water for a few hours — the water softens the cellulose fibers and makes everything easier.
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2
Blend the mixture until it becomes a pulp and drain off the excess water through the sieve, leaving it damp but not soaked — little water prevents cracks during drying.
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3
Mix in the white glue until the paste is malleable and sticks between your fingers — it's what saturates the fibers and creates rigidity as it dries.
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4
Grease the mold with petroleum jelly and press the paste against the walls, forming a layer about 1 centimeter thick — pressing well removes air bubbles and makes the piece uniform.
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5
Let it dry for a day or two in a ventilated spot, and unmold carefully once it's evenly hard.
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6
Lightly sand the edges, paint and varnish to seal — the varnish keeps moisture from softening the piece again.
Finishing touches
Use the bowl to store small items, jewelry, or as a planter for a dried arrangement. If you want a more rustic texture, decorate with strips of paper glued on top instead of sanding.
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