While the finished dolls are open to the artist's interpretation, the basic design resembles a primitive copy of the Russian versions, except paper mache is used in place of traditional carved wood. A series of molds serve as the basis for sculpting the pieces in the proper ratio.
Paint the finished creations with the traditional Russian faces and scarves; or with any style or subject desired. From fairytale characters to animal versions, the finished nesting shells are open to creative designs.
Choosing the Nesting Doll Molds
Finding the right molds for the paper mache nesting dolls can be challenging, but one of the best resources is plastic Easter eggs and small party balloons, due to the egg shape and various sizes involved. A mixture of both can be used, so long as the width and height diminishes with each smaller size.
Plastic eggs are one of the best molds, since the eggs are designed to come apart like nesting doll halves. For balloon molds, each balloon must be inflated with a smaller width than the last one; a small line of space must be left uncovered between the top and bottom paper mache layers, to create the two separate halves that allow the dolls to nest.
Making the Paper Mache
A variety of paper mache techniques will work, including newspaper and flour mixtures made from shredded or torn paper pieces. For a light and smooth paper mache texture, use tissue paper and a light flour-water paste with a liquid texture. Regular craft or Elmer's glue can be substituted for the paper mache paste for a fast-drying adhesive.
The smaller the pieces, the lighter the finish, so many artists employ a paper mache "paper pulp" technique that combines light tissue paper, water, and a little extra adhesive to form a paste that spreads over the molds. A water and glue mixture can be spritzed lightly over a layer of small tissue paper pieces to form a flexible, lightweight paper mache shell.
Covering the Molds
Spread petroleum jelly or Vaseline over the surface of each plastic mold or inflated balloons. Spread or layer paper mache over the surface, remembering to leave a small gap in between balloon halves. Keep the layers smooth and even; keep layers thin for smaller molds, so the dolls will nest properly when finished.
To make the bottom flat so the dolls can stand, add a small, circular layer of paper mache to the bottom mold for each doll until each one rests on a flattened paper surface.
Let the paper mache dry partway before moving the nesting doll shells from the plastic or balloon molds. Cut strips of paper or cardboard and form rings to glue inside the top half of each doll. Each ring should press against the walls snugly while hanging below the top rim, allowing the two halves to join together.
Finishing the Nesting Dolls
Once the nesting dolls are dry, paint them a unique design or a traditional Russian pattern. From Wizard of Oz characters to decorative Easter eggs, the design possibilities are open to interpretation by each artist.
Making paper mache nesting dolls makes a great craft for kids with an interest in paper crafts or easy toy designs. A variety of nesting doll designs are available online to provide inspiration for future projects.
Sarah Briggs - For the last two years, I have designed primitive dolls and folk art sculptures (such as Edwin Drood and the Ghost of Marley) for Cordwood ...
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