The Freedom to Create

Paper Clay can be made using any kind of paper. For this project I chose newspaper, toilet roll cardboard, paper towel, napkin, and dryer lint. First soak paper with water. Each paper has a different absorption rate, soak the paper and let it stand for a few minutes to see how much is absorbed. Do this in a large bowl or right in the food processor. Next add a paper mache paste. I used the cook method. Combining 1 c water, 2 tablespoons of flour and 1/4 tsp of salt (to aid in the prevention of mold). Sprinkle the flour over the water and use a whisk to remove lumps while it is heating up. As it heats up it will begin to thicken. Just before boil remove from heat and allow to cool a bit before add to the paper mix. When it has cooled add it to the paper mix, lock the lid to the processor and pulsate. In a few short moments you will see how the paper has blended and you now have clay. If you have added a bit more water than the paper absorbed just squeeze out the excess wate

It's time to go green and recycle plastic bags. Let's make Plarn. Plarn can be used to incorporate into crochet and knitting projects. Make handbags, totes, and baskets using plarn.

Here is a short video on starting papermache. Just in case it's been awhile. Tee-Hee!

So how is everyone doing? Are you keeping busy with all that's going on during these troubling times. I for one, as a crafter/designer am never bored. In fact this "staying in place" business is much like any other day. Until-I have the need for more supplies-that's when I have to reconsider about just jumping in the car to patron my local places. As they are saying that new normals will have to be learned, that this virus will be around for awhile, face masks will be a new fashion trend. I like to wear one that shows my funny side-like these cute little happy penguins.  I wanted to share with you several free patterns online to make some masks for yourself, family, friends, or who ever may need one. For the fitted face mask-like the one below, the pattern is at https://craftpassion.com . For the pleated face mask shown below-the pattern is at  https://madamsew.com/blogs I used 1/4 inch knit elastic for the ear straps. Cutting 9 inches for each