Materials:
* Balloon: Choose a large, oval-shaped balloon for the body of the shark.
* Newspaper strips: Cut newspaper into long, thin strips about 2 inches wide.
* Flour paste: Mix 1 cup of flour with 1 cup of water. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a paste.
* Water: For thinning the paste.
* Paint: White, grey, and black acrylic paint.
* Brushes: Assorted sizes for painting.
* Black marker: For details.
* Scissors: For cutting paper strips.
* Bowl: For mixing paste.
* Optional:
* Wire mesh: For creating fins.
* Plastic wrap: To protect surfaces.
* Acrylic sealer: For a protective finish.
Instructions:
1. Create the Shark's Body:
* Inflate the balloon to the desired size for your shark.
* Secure the balloon to a sturdy base. You can use a bucket, a piece of cardboard, or a wooden board.
2. Start Paper Macheing:
* Dip the newspaper strips into the flour paste, making sure they are evenly coated.
* Smooth the strips onto the balloon, overlapping them slightly.
* Continue layering the strips, building up several layers to create a strong base.
* Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
* You can add a layer of plastic wrap over the dried paper mache to create a smooth surface for painting.
3. Shape the Shark's Features:
* Dorsal Fin: Before the first layer of paper mache dries, use your fingers to gently mold the top of the balloon into a slight curve. This will form the shark's dorsal fin. You can also use wire mesh to create a more defined fin structure.
* Tail: Shape the bottom of the balloon into a tail. You can add a layer of paper mache around a piece of cardboard to create the tail fin.
* Eyes: While the paper mache is still damp, use your fingers or a small spoon to create two indentations where you want the eyes to be.
4. Let the Paper Mache Dry Thoroughly:
* Allow the paper mache to dry completely. This may take several days, depending on the humidity.
5. Paint and Decorate:
* Once the paper mache is dry, deflate the balloon inside.
* Paint the shark white, leaving the underside grey.
* Add black details like the eyes, mouth, gills, and dorsal fin.
* Use a black marker to draw teeth on the shark's mouth.
6. Add Extra Details (Optional):
* You can attach a piece of cardboard for the shark's lower jaw, paint it black, and add more rows of teeth.
* Add more detail to the fins by adding a bit of paper mache to make them more defined.
* You could even add a few drops of glue to the shark's body to create a rough texture.
7. Seal (Optional):
* Once the paint has dried, apply a coat of acrylic sealer to protect the paper mache and give it a glossy finish.
Tips:
* Work in a well-ventilated area. Paper mache paste can get messy.
* Use a stiff brush for applying the paste. This will help to ensure that the strips are evenly coated.
* Be patient. Paper mache takes time to dry. Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
* Don't be afraid to experiment! This is your chance to create a unique and personalized great white shark.
Enjoy your paper mache great white shark! You can display it proudly on a shelf, use it as a decorative piece, or even add it to a classroom project.