Papier-Mâché Sculpture for Beginners

Learn papier-mâché art with our visual arts and craft short courses in Sydney!

Papier-mâché is one of the world’s most accessible and eco-friendly artforms — transforming simple paper and paste into imaginative 3D sculptures and functional objects. This beginner-friendly course introduces you to the rich history and cultural traditions of papier-mâché, before guiding you step by step through the process of building, layering, and decorating your own creations.

Across three enjoyable sessions, you’ll gain both knowledge and confidence as you explore the possibilities of this versatile craft. Starting with an introduction to the origins of paper-making and papier-mâché around the globe, you’ll see how different cultures have shaped the practice — from decorative boxes in India to carnival masks in Italy. This context will inspire your own approach to the projects that follow.

You’ll then move into hands-on making, beginning with small guided projects to learn the basics of form building and layering. Over the sessions you will create a selection of pieces such as an owl, a tray, a jewellery box, and a vase. These projects are designed to build your technical skills progressively while giving you the freedom to experiment with your own style. Along the way, you’ll discover how to use recycled materials for armatures, how to apply papier-mâché for strength and shape, and how to finish your pieces with colour and texture.

Your tutor will provide demonstrations, practical tips, and individual guidance, ensuring you feel supported no matter your level of experience. As you work, you’ll be encouraged to embrace the creative process, experiment with embellishments, and think about how papier-mâché can fit into your ongoing artistic practice. By the end of the course, you’ll not only take home a collection of unique handmade works, but also the skills to continue exploring papier-mâché in your own time.

This is a relaxed, welcoming class ideal for anyone interested in craft, 3D art, or creative skill development. No prior experience is required — just a willingness to try something new and get hands-on. All basic materials will be provided, though students are encouraged to bring along small recycled items that could be repurposed into their projects.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this papier-mâché course, you should be able to:

• Describe the cultural history and significance of papier-mâché.
• Build simple armatures for 3D forms using recycled materials.
• Apply layering techniques to add strength, shape, and texture.
• Create and decorate a variety of guided projects including an owl, tray, jewellery box, or vase.
• Finish works with surface treatments such as painting, sealing, and embellishment.

After completing this course, you may wish to continue with related courses such as Sculpture or Ceramics.

Course content

• The global history and traditions of papier-mâché.
• Tools, materials, and safe working practices.
• Constructing armatures with wire, cardboard, and recycled items.
• Layering, shaping, and smoothing techniques.
• Guided projects: owl, tray, jewellery box, vase.
• Decorating, painting, and sealing your finished pieces.

Course format:

3 sessions x 3 hours (9 hours total). Delivered face-to-face at Sydney Community College.