Papier-Mâché Sculpture for Beginners
Discover the art of papier-mâché in this hands-on beginner course in Sydney. One of the world’s most accessible and eco-friendly artforms, papier-mâché transforms simple paper and paste into imaginative 3D sculptures and functional objects. Across three engaging sessions, you’ll explore the cultural history of papier-mâché before creating your own sculptural works.
You’ll begin with an introduction to the global traditions of paper-making and papier-mâché, from decorative boxes in India to vibrant carnival masks in Italy. Then, through guided demonstrations and practical exercises, you’ll learn how to construct armatures using recycled materials, apply layering techniques for strength and shape, and finish your pieces with paint and embellishments.
Projects may include an owl, tray, jewellery box, or vase—designed to progressively build your skills while allowing room for creative expression. By the end of the course, you’ll leave with a collection of unique handmade works and the confidence to continue exploring papier-mâché independently.
Course Content
- Global history and traditions of papier-mâché
- Tools, materials, and safe work practices
- Constructing armatures with wire, cardboard, and recycled items
- Layering, shaping, and smoothing techniques
- Decorating, painting, and sealing finished pieces
Schedule & Venue
- Rozelle Campus, 2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039
- Corner of Gordon St & Victoria Rd, grounds of St Joseph's Church
- Short lunch break during class
Details
You will learn
- Understand the cultural history of papier-mâché
- Build armatures and apply layering techniques
- Finish and decorate 3D papier-mâché sculptures
You will get
- Step-by-step demonstrations and tutor guidance
- All essential tools and materials provided
- Completed handmade sculptures to take home
Appropriate for
Beginners and anyone interested in sustainable art, 3D craft, and creative skill development. Suitable for all skill levels with no prior experience required.
Preparation
What to bring
- Old magazines or newspapers
- Lunch, snacks, and water bottle
- Closed-in shoes and clothes that can get messy
What to wear
Comfortable clothes that can get messy; closed-in shoes required
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
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