How to paint papier mache?

Question

I've got the papier mache heads done, but I'm stumped about painting them. Do I need a primer or something so the newprint doesn't show through?

These are for Halloween scarecrows, so any tips about painting them dramatically so they stand out in the dark would be appreciated.

Oh, and if anyone has any tips on how to store them, in case I want to save them for next year?

Answer 1

you can use acrylic paints, to make the paint of the papier mache objects last long, i suggest you use a varnish, it will preserve the colors, you can either use shiny or matte varnish.

Answer 2

Use poster paints! Crayola makes a great selection of bold colors. You don't need to seal the paper mache first and, in my experience, will only take one coat of paint if you use darker colors. With white, I usually put two coats on them.

To store make sure they are completely dry! If you put them away and they're still wet they will mold and smell funky in about a week. If they're dry, store them somewhere cool and dry and they should last until next year.

Answer 3

If the newsprint shows through, just put on another coat of paint.
How about using glow-in-the-dark markers, neon markers, etc. - that would really make the faces stand out at night.

Answer 4

just if the print shows through put on a second coat. I doubt it will if your using oil paints. Maybe you could paint the head one color let that dry then paint the rest.