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Zart Extra Term 3 2009

Zart Art Paper Mix

Sculpture

The Armature
1. Make an armature using Poly Balls of differing sizes, Box Board, cardboard cylinders and cones. For finer shapes use Paper Magiclay as it has the ability to adhere to any surface, it is lightweight and easy to shape.

2. Chicken Wire is then squashed over the whole form to provide ‘grip’ for the Zart Paper Mix. It can also be used solely as part of the armature e.g. To form the eye socket that surrounds and holds the poly ball eyes in place. Jute string may be used to hold down any parts of the Chicken Wire that poke out around the armature. This will save the hands from any damage from the wire.
In some designs it may be necessary to glue parts together as the whole armature must stand firmly on its own before applying the Zart Paper Mix. Two preferred glues are Supertac from Zart for smaller sculptures and Bonding Cement (commonly known as No More Nails) that can be bought in water clean up form from any hardware store for a sculpture more then approximately 60 cm.

The finished piece
1. In a bowl or ice cream container place two cups of Zart Paper Mix. Keep the amounts small as the mix will start setting rapidly due to the plaster content.

2. Add water and mix together with your hands or a spoon. The consistency needs to be fairly firm. This also speeds drying time so work on a small area at one time. Stand the model on a plastic work sheet as you work.

3. Use your hands to press and spread the mix over the chosen work area. The more you ‘fuss’ and rub the smoother the finish you will achieve. This means less messy and dusty sanding and cleaning up of a very firm dried mix after. In fiddly areas use a Pop Stick or Satay Stick.
I find that creating a firm base is the best place to begin. An armature that stands upright is easier to work on. Work from that area up (or out) until you have covered the whole sculpture in a layer of Paper Mix, and all the parts of the armature are invisible. It does not need to be a thick layer as the Zart Paper Mix when completely dry is very strong. It dries white and can be painted using acrylic paint, such as Vipond or Chromacryl Paint.
Note: for a more professional finish I suggest varnishing your work or better still use Vipond paint. Vipond will allow you to create finer lines and more detailed decorations and give you a nice gloss finish with no need to varnish.

Anna King

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