For this first post in the "decor" category, we're going to create stones from scratch. This is for an immersive accommodation project where there is a great need for rocks. I'll detail the rest of the project in upcoming posts🤫… To do as much as possible and at any time, I will create stones from almost nothing.
Material:
- Cardboard
- Tape
- Newspapers
- Paint
- Chalk
For papier-mâché glue:
- Flour
- Hot water
I start by cutting my cardboard to assemble the faces. The idea is to create lots of different shapes with a different number of faces to get a relatively natural result.
On some of the rocks, I hammered and beveled the edges to create a broad representation of rocks. Once I have my shape, it's time to prepare the glue.
Making papier-mâché glue in large quantities is quite simple: mix flour and water in a large saucepan. As for the proportions, I do as I feel, but most recipes agree on 1 part flour to 5 parts water. To avoid lumps, I whisk the mixture in the saucepan. Once the mixture seems more compact, I turn off the heat.
I move on to applying the papier-mâché to my cardboard. I apply glue to the cardboard, cut strips of newspaper which I place on the glued area, and then spread a final layer of glue over the paper. It's a somewhat lengthy process because the entire cardboard structure needs to be covered. Once the first layer is dry, I apply larger quantities of glue, leaving them loose. I then use paper to smother the glue, creating crevices and protrusions. This adds texture to the structure.
Last but not least: painting the structure! I mix black and white to obtain different shades of gray, and after applying a first base coat of gray, I drybrush with a lighter shade. Finally, I use white chalk to create white joints on the gray surfaces. I blend them so they don't look artificial. To finish, I add more detail to the stone, using drybrushing or a small brush, adding further nuances.
And there you have it! We have some super simple stones to make from waste. You can make them yourself to decorate your home, dress up your play, or for any other fun project.
Stay tuned to find out how I'll incorporate them into my immersive setting 👀
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