Thrilling Trims: Papier Mache

We all have our own memories from childhood of papier-mache creations and activities. The easy, do-it-yourself nature of papier mache as a medium lends itself to all crafting traditions and works as a simple, yet beautiful way to make any holiday need, from costumes to decorations to functional items such as bowls and dinnerware.


Papier Mache is the art of making objects with paper, reinforced with rags and stuck together using a liquid wet paste such as glue, starch or wall paper adhesive. The name Papier-Mache is French for "chewed paper" and is thought to have received its name from French workers in London Papier-Mache shops who were said to have actually chewed the paper. The manufacturers may have put this idea into circulation in order to hide their true methods and recipes.

The history of papier mache dates back to the 2nd century AD in China where paper was created. The art did not reach Europe until the 17th century. Large imports of papier-mache goods flooded European markets which led France to start making its own wares. England started to do the same in the 1670s, however it only became very fashionable in Britain in the late 1700s and into the 1800s. It was used for primarily for mask making and festival activities.

Papier mache made its first appearance in the United States in 1850, when William Allgood, an English Quaker, established the Litchfield Manufacturing Company in Connecticut. The company was successful, producing such items as fans and card cases. When it was introduced at the 1854 World's Fair, papier mache art was given a favorable reception.

From it's start in the Chinese Court, papier mache has been used by common people to create objects for all forms of celebrations, ranging from religious ornaments for All Souls Day and the Day of the Dead to objects of revelry like Mardi Gras floats and has developed as a fun way for children to create their own artistic masterpieces. Professional and fine artists have also picked up the medium. Below are a few folk artists that I love.

The artist, Johanna Parker, makes simply amazing versions of these vintage German-inspired Halloween folk art creations. These whimsical decorations are sweet and stunning and will make any house glow with a unique look during this haunting season. Her designs are available for purchase on her website HERE







Kalamazoo Artist, Scott Smith, is in the middle of preparing for an major Halloween exhibition in Detroit that will include his one-of-a-kind papier mache creations. Mlive has the full story.



Here is a selection of vintage German inspired papier mache treat bowls for your Halloween table. blackbirdfolkart makes these wonderful designs for very reasonable prices at Etsy.