How to Make a Chicken Wire Paper Mache Volcano

* Chicken wire (1/2-inch mesh)

* Newspaper (10-15 sheets)

* Flour (1 cup)

* Water (1 cup)

* Salt (1 tablespoon)

* Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon)

* Acrylic paint (red, orange, yellow)

* Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Make the paper mache paste. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, salt, and vegetable oil until smooth.

2. Prepare the chicken wire. Cut the chicken wire into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Fold the edges over to create a 1-inch lip around the edge of the circle.

3. Apply the paper mache paste. Dip the newspaper strips into the paper mache paste and then apply them to the chicken wire form, starting at the bottom and working your way up. Overlap the strips slightly and smooth them out with your fingers.

4. Add layers of paper mache. Continue applying layers of paper mache until the volcano is about 1/2-inch thick. Let each layer dry completely before adding the next.

5. Paint the volcano. Once the volcano is dry, paint it with acrylic paint. Use red, orange, and yellow to create a realistic lava flow effect.

6. Let the volcano dry completely. Let the volcano dry completely before displaying it.

Tips

* To make a larger volcano, use a larger piece of chicken wire and more newspaper.

* To make a smaller volcano, use a smaller piece of chicken wire and fewer newspaper sheets.

* You can add details to your volcano, such as rocks, trees, and animals, using cardboard, felt, or other materials.

* This is a great project for kids to do at home or in the classroom.