Canvas mache is just like the French art of paper mache, however, instead of using strips of paper you use strips of canvas. You can use canvas mache to make a number of durable sculptures, including rock formations. This project can be great for designing props for a play or even making landscaping items for your yard.
Instructions
1. Design the shape of your rock formation using wire mesh and wire. You will need to bend and sculpt your mesh to create the basic shape of your rocks. Use your wire cutters to cut your mesh to the right size and to bend the wire into the shapes you want. Use nature as your inspiration to get the most organic looking rock formations.
2. Tear your canvas into one-inch thick strips. Place these strips aside. You are going to need a lot of them, so make sure you tear off enough to completely cover your wire mesh frame several times.
3. Mix your plaster product for your project. Usually you will mix 23 parts of your plaster with 100 parts of water. If your rock formation will be an indoor decoration, you can just use a basic gypsum plaster mix. However, if you want to leave your rock formation outside, you will need a plaster product that is designed for outdoor use, such as a cement plaster like Hydrocal.
4. Dip your canvas strips into the plaster mix and smooth it over the wire mesh frame. Start by covering the entire wire mesh frame in a single layer of the canvas. Then you can shape the rock formation by adding additional layers of canvas to specific areas of the rock. You may need to cut your canvas strips down to create specific shapes on your rock formation. When you are done, allow the rock formation to dry/cure for about a day.
5. Paint and seal your canvas mache rock formation. Use indoor/outdoor paints in shades of gray, black, white or shades of brown. If you are leaving your rock outdoors, then you need to make sure you coat the entire rock formation with paint and then seal it with a clear waterproofer. This will protect your rock formation from water damage and help it to survive outdoor life.
Related posts
You can make an ordinary wall look like a rock wall.If you are making a model for a school project or a train set, you can make the model look more appealing and beautiful by adding on walls that...
Create a lasting canvas piece by first applying gesso.Gesso is a priming material commonly used on artistic canvases or wooden paneling. The prime components of gesso are glue adhesive and white p...
Make Chicken Wire Yard DecorationsChicken wire yard decorations can add a visual wonder to your yard. Making them can be a fun family project. Talk about the yard decoration with family members ah...
Make Plaster Body MoldsPlaster body molds are indispensable for artists and sculptors who need to work from a realistic perspective. They can be used for reference, but often times they become a p...
Plaster of Paris is the least effective material to use to make fishing lures. Because it will eventually dissolve in water, plaster of Paris fishing lures need a thick coating of latex or acrylic...
