Cows are one of the staples of the countryside, dotting the fields with their familiar forms. They are a surprisingly awkward shape to sculpt with all their lumps and bumps, but I've created a simplified version that is still instantly recognisable as a cow and oozes with character!
This type of sculpture does not use a template to create the silhouette and is totally hand-built from newspaper. It uses my own particular technique of using newspaper twists to build up a shape in a similar way that you would build a coil pot. This method is very versatile and you can build practically any shape and size of sculpture using this method (see my full size sheep sculpture), but psssttt... don't tell anyone, this is just a secret between you and me, ok..??
In the video below, I will show you how to construct the head in cardboard, but you can also make it by cutting it out of scrap wood. If you don't have any wood to hand or the ability to cut it (e.g. I have a scroll saw and jigsaw), don't worry, cardboard works very well. Obviously this won't be as strong as using wood, but once your paper mache mix is applied it will achieve a good strength. You will need sharp scissors to cut your cardboard, or a craft knife. Be mindful of health and safety whichever method you use to cut things!
I use metal rod for the tail, which is one of the only materials I buy new. I do this as I need to make things strong and durable as I am selling my work to the public, shops and galleries, but you could use an old coat hanger or garden wire.
There is a recipe for making my "Posh Paper Mache Mix" that you can find on my Blog page, which is the recipe that I have developed to use with my own work and which make my sculptures water resistant. You can also find a traditional paper mache mix which is suitable for children to use. Find more demonstrations and tips how to make things in my Blog, including some "fun freebies" with step by step downloadable instructions.
A paper mache sculpture of this size will take about a week to dry - you can speed up the process by leaving it on a radiator, but beware, excessive changes in heat may make it crack. After this you can, sand it, paint it and add decoupage to make it bright and colourful - I prefer to make a piebald cow because I can have fun with the patterns! A coat of ordinary yacht varnish to finish will protect it and make it quite waterproof of you can use ordinary PVA or acrylic varnish to give it a glossy finish and seal it.
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