The Paper-Mâché

paper-mâché

It is said that in the 1600s paper-mâché was used to create statues, mainly religious, but the using paper-mâché for figures and masks in carnival floats is quite recent.

There are certain steps in creating paper-mâché masks and figures.

Once the topic or idea of design is chosen, the mask or figure goes through the first phase which is the preparation of the clay. From the initial shape of the mask, the artisan gradually builds on the sections of the mouth, nose, eyes, etc. by using molding instruments. The form details must be well accentuated otherwise they may disappear during the next molding phase. This next phase can be executed only after oil is brushed throughout the work. To implement the mold, plaster is used, which when properly mixed with water is smeared on clay for a thickness of about 8 to 10 centimeters, so that when it is removed form the mold it is strong enough not to break. The artisan then waits until the plaster is well dry and the clay can be separated from the mold, until it is completely empty and clean, ready for the molding of the paper-mâché.

Then, comes the “true” working of paper-mâché, which requires newspapers cut into rectangular strips. The first strips of paper will be applied to the mold with only water rather than glue to avoid them from sticking together.

Once the first layer has been laid the successive layers will be applied using glue. Here it is important to make sure that the strips adhere fully into the mold. At this point there is a waiting period until the layers of paper dry and then the paper fashioned in the mold will be removed.

float construction

Removed from the mold, the paper-mâché is shaped as needed, and the process moves on to plastering. This consists in brushing the mask with liquid plaster, which once dry is polished with sandpaper and then it is ready to be painted. After a first coat of base paint is laid the actual painting takes place which normally utilizes water colors. Finally, the mask or structure is painted until the colors acquire brightness.

Painting of float

©carnevaleacireale.com - Translated by Michael Park and Janelle Serrentino - all rights reserved