Make Giant Paper Mache Cacti For Your Home And Garden

Easy
I love cacti especially the giant Saguaro but as these take at least 50 years of growing before even getting an arm, the only way I was going to get one was by making my own. These Paper Mache Cacti are really easy to make and look great too.
As these paper mache cacti are so large you will first of all need to make a plaster of paris and chicken wire frame. (details can be found on my blog link below)
Each cactus is then made with 3 layers of paper, stuck down with PVA glue. Firstly a layer of newspaper strips, secondly a layer of green tissue and the final third layer decorative green paper napkins.
I used Marimekko napkins and pear napkins from Ikea for my final paper layers these added fun to cactus. When you have finished coat you cactus with waterproof PVA to protect them.
I love these cacti they provide a great talking point and make people smile when the see them in my home. My son has a one in his bedroom and it makes a unique hat/coat stand. You can find the full details for this easy tutorial here http://www.pillarboxblue.com/diy-giant-paper-mache-cactus/
Claire at Pillarboxblue
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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  2 questions
  • Moe Clarke Moe Clarke on Sep 16, 2016
    could you suggest some other shapes to try?
  • Da.herrmann Da.herrmann on May 31, 2017

    Did you do any surface treatment? Or do you bring it under a roof when the rain starts (in Germany summers are so short and cold and wet...)

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