Made by Helen Heaney
During a recent trip to Sicily I was inspired by a ceramic side table with a woman’s head and face on the side. It was far too expensive to buy and ship back home (Australia) so I decided I could buy a side table and make the head and face with paper mache. One picture is of my work at one stage in the process, underneath a photo of the table. The other pic shows where I’m at now having used Jonni’s original paper mache clay recipe for the gorgeous texture. I’m going to do the hair differently to the photo and I’d really appreciate suggestions how to make curly hair with paper mache. I have considered shaping it with foil, paper and paper mache clay to create the hair strands, and I’d love to hear your suggestions. I can’t have it too heavy or the table might tip over hehehe
[Note from Jonni: Click Helen’s name to see all the updates on this project.]
I made progress today thanks to much research. I found your horse mane YouTube lesson Jonni, which was invaluable, and again, your paper mache clay recipe with gram measurements. I used two types and thicknesses of cheap wool and twine-like products, glue/joint compound and paper mashed clay to create and adhere the hair. Fingers crossed it all sticks and dries, ready for the next step.
That sounds great! I can’t wait to see how it turned out.
Helen, This is really cool. Can’t wait to see how it turns out.
Thank you, much appreciated. It’s a super biggie for me…way out of my league but I’m giving it a go 🙂
I can’t see how to post an updated photo. Any suggestions welcomed 🙂
Hi Helen. Just fill out the form again and post your update. I’ll make sure both posts are linked together, so people can see them both.
I think this is such an interesting idea. I was thinking maybe you could use a comb and drag it thru the mâché. I haven’t done this but it’s worth a try. But obviously Debbie Court would know the best. Can’t wait to see the final piece!
Ah yes, that would have worked too. Thank you for your encouragement and suggestion. I really appreciate both 🙂
What an interesting project! Just by pure coincidence, we also received some photos today from Debbie Court, a true expert when it comes to creating portraits with paper mache clay. Be sure to take a look at her post – if you leave a comment on her page she may have some great advice for you. 🙂
Thank you so much Jonni and for the link to Debbie’s fabulous work!