New Paper Mache Dragon- Cool Spine
Hi again,
I wanted an elaborate spine on this dragon. It's a lot of work, but well worth it. Again, no more paper mache. I'm fashioning details with paper (mostly phone book paper) and masking tape.
I twisted paper around pieces of small gauge wire. I tapered them to a point and wrapped with masking tape. You've seen me do this a million times. I started at the head and attached the longest spines.
I continued adding the spines down the back....all the way down the tail.
Next, I dipped pieces of cloth into the glue and draped it over the spines from top to bottom. I cut off the excess cloth while it was wet. I know that this looks easy, but it is actually quite challenging.
Next time we'll finish the head.
See you soon!
I wanted an elaborate spine on this dragon. It's a lot of work, but well worth it. Again, no more paper mache. I'm fashioning details with paper (mostly phone book paper) and masking tape.
I twisted paper around pieces of small gauge wire. I tapered them to a point and wrapped with masking tape. You've seen me do this a million times. I started at the head and attached the longest spines.
I continued adding the spines down the back....all the way down the tail.
Next, I dipped pieces of cloth into the glue and draped it over the spines from top to bottom. I cut off the excess cloth while it was wet. I know that this looks easy, but it is actually quite challenging.
After the cloth dried (overnight) I used small scissors to trim between the spines.
Next time we'll finish the head.
See you soon!
Posted by Dan the Monster-man at 4/1/2011 12:41 PM 
Categories: New Paper Mache Dragon Project
Tags: paper mache papier mache sculpture arts and crafts dragons raptors babies paper mache instructions
Categories: New Paper Mache Dragon Project
Tags: paper mache papier mache sculpture arts and crafts dragons raptors babies paper mache instructions
Hi Dan, I know I have been watching your work, have one of your books and watch your video's time and time again, but I'm still missing what you do with the back side of the wings/spines...Do you patch the back side exposed taped areas with small pieces of glue-cloth? I only have seen you put one layer on one side. Whats your secret here? Thanks again for sharing everything with us! She's looking fantastic!
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Hi Suz,
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OK, I am feeling very senior....I do remember NOW reading that..Scary, I'm losing it! Thanks for the clue! Oh boy, I can't wait to see the baby and the egg, it sounds like a winner!! This is definitely one of your top notch projects! and can't wait to see what commission you did either!!! Dang Dan, I just can't get enough of your amazing work, I am in awe!!
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I sure understand the senior moments! Don't worry. I'm delivering the Buddha in less than an hour. I always get nervous before a delivery. I think he turned out great, but you never know if it's what the client expected. We'll see.
Wish me luck.
Dan
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Can't wait to see that Buddha, I have not the tiniest bit of doubt they will LOVE it, You got the luck!
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He did really like it. And I'm happy he's happy. I'm post some video and photos of that project soon.
See you
Dan
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Hi Dan, This lovely lady has such a commanding presence. She is very special. I can see the care you have taken in creating her in each new picture you post. You should be quite pleased. Thank you for sharing your process.
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Hey Willow,
I am pleased so far. I had to put her on hold while I finished Buddha commission (which I'm delivering today). Now I can paint the dragon. I can hardly wait...although I'm still equivocating on the color. I hate that. I just have to plant my feet and paint.
Hope you are well.
Dan
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Hi Dan - first let me tell you that I got the books and they are not just fantastic, instruction wise, but they are funny and witty and were a delight to read. Thank you so much! I have yet to drag out that tarp, but its on the project list. As for this dragon, can I just say that it is coming out just fantastic, with a level of detail that is going to be absolutely stunning once it's done. I cannot wait to see the finished result. Thank you again for sharing - its very generous of you and I love watching these projects develop!
Best regards
Arlene
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Hi Arlene,
I'm so glad that you like the books. Thanks for saying so. I'm glad you are ready to get started. You are going to love this medium. Let me know if you need any advice. The tarp is a good idea.
Talk to you later. Have fun!
Dan
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Man it is going to be hard to not believe this dragon is not alive. Awesome loving this build to bits.
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Thanks Jonty!
I hope you are okay. I hear you are going through a rough patch.
Take care of yourself.
Dan
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Lol you could say that a heart attack. it slowed me down for a few weeks but i will be back lol.
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You are too funny Jonty! Most people who experience a heart attack don't thing about getting back to their art work. You just need to rest for a while. Like so many artists, you have that obsessive quality (for good and bad). I'm glad to hear that you are in good spirits though. That will make you heal faster I believe.
Take care of yourself!
Dan
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Absolutely stunning Dan.
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Thank you Tudy! Very nice of you to say.
Take care.
Dan
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wow amazing! Found you through the interview you did for The Dark Muse. Your work is fascinating, look forward to seeing much more of it.x
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Thank you Darcy. I appreciate the kind words. I'll have to check out the new edition of the Dark Muse. I'm glad you stopped by.
Dan
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All I can say is WOW, Dan she is really breathtaking, fantastic, awesome (as usual there aren't enough words to describe what I'm thinking) I cannot wait to see more!!! You never cease to amaze me.
Boogers Mom (aka Angie)
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Hi Angie,
How are you? Hope you are making art. I'm really glad that you like this project so far. I like it too. Right now I'm wrestling with my color choices. I've gone back and forth for a couple weeks now. I should flip a coin and be done with it.
Thanks for stopping by.
Dan
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Hi Dan
How did you attach the spines to the dragon so each would stand up straight and not fall over and be sturdy at the base but not have an over obvious blob of cloth to keep it in place??
Batya
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Hello Batya,
I punched holes in the back and tail to stick in the spikes. Then wrapped the base with a small piece of masking tape. Does that help?
Take care
Dan
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Hi Dan - First of all let me say I'm very sorry to hear you lost your friend . to a heart attack. You have my sincere condolences.
I just discovered your site and absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE it! Your work is so original and fantastic, videos & commentary are entertaining and for me most importantly educational. I've been trying to find a paper mache' medium I would like to try working in. I recently had to give up my job due to illness and I am looking for something fun I can possibly earn some money by working at home. All your work is amazing but the dragon mother blew me away. Looking at all you create is truly inspiring. - Bonnie
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Hello Bonnie,
Thank you for your nice comment! I appreciate it very much. You are very kind. And thanks for buying the books. I'm shipping them right now. I think you'll enjoy this medium.
Keep in touch.
Dan
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Hello Dan, Here I am 75 years old and still playing with crafts. I Love this paper-mache stuff and yours is the best I've seen. I've done lots and keep going with challenges. Thanks for all the free info. I'm in a artist and crafters guild.Don't do heavy stuff or shows anymore. The decoration of a huge American Legion Building is my challenge for the guild and paper-mache objects of all sorts is the winner. I can't thank you enough. Nadine
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Hi Nadine,
I'm glad you found my information helpful. It is a great medium for self expression, that's for sure. Sounds like you are an experienced artist. I'm sure you will like it. Good luck. Let me know if I can help.
Take care
Dan
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