Are you looking for a unique way to light up your home or workspace? Look no further than paper mache hanging lights! These charming and quirky lamps are easy to customize, making them the perfect addition to any interior design. Here, we’ll walk you through the process of creating your own paper mache hanging lights:

What you’ll need:

• Balloons
• Newspaper strips
• All-purpose flour
• Water
• A bowl
• String or twine
• A lamp kit (which will include a cord, switch, and socket)
• A lightbulb
• Paint or other decorations (optional)

Instructions:

1. Inflate your balloons

To create the shape of your paper mache hanging light, you’ll need to inflate the balloon to the desired size. Be sure to leave a bit of space at the top for the lamp’s hardware. Tie a string or twine around the balloon and hang it somewhere where it can dry after the paper mache process.

2. Mix the paper mache paste

In a bowl, mix together equal parts flour and water until you have a smooth and consistent mixture. The paste should be thick enough to cling to the newspaper strips, but not so thick that it won’t spread easily.

3. Dip the newspaper strips in the paste

Tear newspaper into strips that are about 1-2 inches wide and 6-8 inches long. Dip each strip into the paper mache paste, making sure it’s thoroughly coated.

4. Cover the balloon with paper mache

Begin layering the newspaper strips onto the balloon, making sure to overlap the strips so there are no gaps or holes. Continue this process until the entire surface of the balloon is covered or until you’ve reached the desired thickness. Let the paper mache dry completely, which may take up to 24 hours.

5. Pop the balloon

Once dry, use a pin or scissors to pop the balloon inside the paper mache shape. Carefully remove the deflated balloon from inside the paper mache form.

6. Install the lamp hardware

Thread your lamp cord through the hole in the top of your paper mache light. Follow the instructions on your lamp kit to properly attach the socket and switch.

7. Decorate your paper mache hanging light (optional)

You can paint your paper mache hanging light with acrylic paint or decorate it with other materials such as glitter or ribbons. Let your creativity shine!

8. Hang and enjoy!

Once your lamp is dry and decorated, attach it to your ceiling and enjoy your stunning new piece of decor.

Tips:

• Use a double-layer of newspaper strips for extra durability.
• Instead of flour, you can use wallpaper paste or white glue to create your paper mache mixture.
• Consider adding a sealer over the paint to make your paper mache hanging light more durable.

With these simple steps, you’ll be able to create your own stunning paper mache hanging lights. Let your creativity blossom as you experiment with different color schemes, shapes, and sizes. Whether you want to brighten up your living space or add a unique touch to your office, these whimsical lamps are the perfect solution.