How to Make a Paper Mâché Nest (Decorative & Beautifully Imperfect)

Paper mâché nests are one of those rare crafts that feel both timeless and quietly modern. These dainty sculptural pieces work just as well in a minimalist interior as they do in a more eclectic, botanical home.

What I love most is that they don’t have to be painted or polished. Unpainted paper mâché, especially when made from newspaper, has a raw, honest texture that feels calm, tactile and intentional. Visible print, soft layers and gentle imperfections are very much part of the charm.

How to Make a Paper Mâché Nest (Decorative & Beautifully Imperfect)

This guide for "How to Make a Paper Mâché Nest" is a slow, fun project that rewards patience rather than perfection.

What You’ll Need

• Newspaper or scrap paper

• Flour

• Water

• Mixing bowl

• Balloon, bowl, or loose ball of scrunched paper (for shaping)

• Scissors or torn paper strips

• String or twine (if hanging)

• A needle or skewer (optional, for threading holes)

Optional:

• Botanical transfers, stamps, or pencil drawings

• White tissue paper for a softer finish

• Clear matte sealant (optional)

Step 1: Make the Paper Mâché Paste

Mix 1 part flour with 1 part water until smooth.You’re aiming for the consistency of single cream – fluid but not watery. If you want a slightly stronger and durable finish, add a pinch of salt to prevent mould during drying.

Step 2: Prepare the Paper

Tear the newspaper into strips rather than cutting it. Torn edges blend far more seamlessly and create a softer surface. If you like the idea of visible text and print, keep the strips fairly large. For a smoother, more sculpted look, tear smaller pieces.

Step 3: Form the Nest Shape

There are 2 easy approaches:

Option A: Balloon Method

Blow up a balloon and rest it in a bowl. This gives you a rounded, nest-like base.

Option B: Freeform Paper Ball

Scrunch newspaper into a loose ball and lightly tape it just enough to hold its shape. This creates a more organic, imperfect half round nest form – ideal if you want a less uniform, sculptural nest.

Once shaped, wrap the paper ball in a single layer of cling film. This acts as a barrier so the paper mâché shell can be removed easily once dry.

Step 4: Build the Paper Mâché Layers

Dip each strip into the paste, wipe off excess, and lay it over the form.

• Start with 3–4 layers for structure

• Leave an opening where the “nest” entrance will be

• Smooth gently with your fingers, but don’t overwork it

For a natural nest feel, let some edges remain uneven. Perfection is not the goal here.

Allow to dry completely (usually 24 hours).

Step 5: Remove the Form & Refine

Once fully dry:

• Pop the balloon or remove the inner paper

• Trim the opening if needed

• Add 1–2 reinforcing layers around the rim

• Dry again thoroughly.

Step 6: Decorating Your Paper Mâché Nest

This is where personal taste comes in.

Once your nest is completely dry, you can decide how far you want to take the decoration. There’s no right or wrong here – these pieces work just as beautifully left raw as they do fully embellished.

Option 1: Keep It Natural & Unpainted

Leaving your nest unpainted highlights the texture of the paper layers and any visible newspaper print. This works particularly well in neutral, Scandi-style interiors.

Paper mâché nests made from recycled newspaper: natural and unpainted

You can soften the look by adding:

• A final layer of white tissue paper

• Light pencil sketches or fine line drawings

• Vintage-style paper glued inside the nest only

This approach keeps the nest calm, tactile and sculptural.

Option 2: Subtle & Decorative

If you want decoration without overpowering the form, try:

• Muted tones such as off-white, clay, sage or stone

• Botanical stamps or transfers

• A thin limewash or chalk paint finish

• Delicate hand-drawn birds or foliage

Paper mâché nests made from recycled newspaper

Focus decoration around the opening or interior to keep the outside clean and balanced.

Option 3: Go All Out (Bold & Playful)

If subtle isn’t your style, paper mâché is the perfect surface for bolder experimentation.

Colourful Paper Mâché Nest

Colourful Paper Mâché Nest

Colourful Paper Mâché Nest

Consider:

• Bright, saturated colours

• Gold or metallic paint around the opening

• Painted patterns, stripes or motifs

• Collage, decoupage or layered prints

• Gloss or high-contrast finishes

Paper mâché is forgiving, so this is a great opportunity to experiment and have fun. If it doesn’t work the first time, you can always paint over it.

A Final Tip

Try making several nests at once and decorating each differently. Hanging a mix of raw, softly decorated and bold pieces together creates contrast and makes the display feel intentional rather than uniform.

Step 7: Hanging or Styling

To hang:

• Pierce two small holes at the top

• Thread with string or fine chain

To style without hanging:

• Place on a shelf or in a shallow bowl

• Group several nests at different heights

• Use as a seasonal display rather than a literal birdhouse

These are decorative objects, not functional nests.

Why Unpainted Paper Mâché Works So Well

There’s something grounding about seeing the material for what it is. Newspaper print, uneven layers, soft shadows – it all feels quietly sustainable and intentionally handmade.

In a world of overly finished décor, raw paper mâché feels honest, slow and human.

Final Thoughts

Paper mâché nests are simple to make, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you leave them raw or add delicate decoration, they bring texture and story into a space without shouting for attention.

If you enjoy crafts that sit somewhere between art and home décor, this is a beautiful place to start.

You May Also Like

If you enjoyed making these paper mâché nests, you might like exploring a few of our other paper-based craft projects. They use similar techniques but result in very different decorative pieces:

• Paper Mâché Bowls – sculptural bowls made from layered paper, perfect for leaving raw or decorating boldly

• Decorative Paper Mâché Easter Eggs – oversized, textured eggs finished in neutral tones or with gold accents

• Paper Mâché Hanging Ornaments – lightweight forms ideal for seasonal styling and wall displays

All of these projects use the same core principles: simple materials, slow layering, and embracing texture rather than perfection. Once you’ve mastered one paper mâché form, the others become much easier to experiment with.

How to Make a Paper Mâché Nest; Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use newspaper, or will the print show through?

Yes – and that’s part of the appeal. Newspaper print showing through unpainted paper mâché adds texture and character. If you prefer a softer look, add a final layer of white tissue paper or plain recycled paper.

2. How strong are paper mâché nests once dry?

Surprisingly strong. With 3–5 layers and proper drying time, paper mâché nests are sturdy enough for hanging or shelf styling. They’re decorative rather than functional, but not fragile when handled with care.

3. How long does paper mâché take to dry?

Each layer usually takes 12–24 hours to dry, depending on thickness and room temperature. Always let the piece dry fully before adding more layers or removing the mould to avoid warping.

4. Do I need to seal or varnish the finished nest?

Not necessarily. Leaving the nest unsealed keeps the natural, matte texture. If you live in a humid environment or plan to hang it long-term, a light coat of clear matte sealant can help protect it.

5. Are these nests suitable for outdoor use?

No. Paper mâché is best kept indoors. Moisture will weaken the structure over time. These nests are intended as interior decorative objects, not outdoor bird nests.