How to Make a Model Brain Out of Paper Mache

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Things You'll Need

  • Balloon

  • Paper mache (mix or strips)

  • Newspaper

  • Paint

  • Brushes

Use contrasting colors next to each other to make each section of the brain pop.

Paper mache is a versatile craft medium that lets you make a hard cast out of any object. It is the perfect tool to use to make a model of the brain because the easily paintable surface lets you clearly label and separate the different sections of the brain. You can make a paper mache brain in a few simple steps.

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Step 1

Blow up a large balloon to medium size. Tie off the end of the balloon as far up as possible so the narrowing near the tie is minimal.

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Step 2

Prepare the paper mache. Follow the directions if you bought a pre-mix, or skip this step if you bought pre-coated strips. To make paper mache from scratch, boil five cups of water while mixing in a cup of flour. Boil mixture and stir for 3 minutes.

Step 3

Cut or rip 2 inch thick strips of newspaper and dip individually into the mix. Apply the strips to the balloon until it is covered in a thin layer. Leave a small hole around the tie of the balloon.

Step 4

Wait one hour to let the first layer dry, unless the pre-mixed mache offers a different drying time. Apply several more layers to the balloon, waiting an hour between each layer until the cast is the thickness you desire.

Step 5

Pop the balloon inside of the cast. Divide the brain into the different sections and paint each section a unique color.

Tip

Build up layers of paper mache to look like two separate halves of the brain.

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