Paper Mache and Concrete

This past week I have found myself slightly obsessed with paper mache and concrete.  So much so, that I have spent several hours researching both topics and have all kinds of project ideas floating through my head. 

The paper mache mode started while I was sketching ideas for some Tree of Life projects.  I had the idea of making a tree out of paper mache and then attaching it to canvas, but I had absolutely no idea if that would work.  So I did what I always do when I don't know something--I Googled it.  (How did we ever survive without the internet?)  My google search lead me to ultimatepapermache.com.  This amazing blog has a recipe for paper mache clay that I knew I had to try.

So I wrote down the items I needed to get to make the clay, and headed to Lowe's.  Then I got slightly distracted.  As I walked into the front doors of Lowe's, this book caught my eye.

Because I have been also thinking about what to do next with my cement mixer, this book screamed at me to buy it.  It a great book, but I resisted the impulse because of it's $22 price tag.  I was so proud of myself for walking away without buying it before checking to see if the library had a copy or if I could get it cheaper on Amazon.  (The library didn't have it, so I did end up buying it on Amazon for $15.   Once again, how did we survive before the internet?)

In the end, my trip to Lowe's was kind of a bust.  We didn't find a cook top on clearance (mine is 30 years old and HAS to be replaced SOON!) and I did not buy any of the supplies for my paper mache clay.  But I guess it wasn't a totally bust.  Because I resisted the impulse purchase my cement book, I discovered several other books that intrigued me.  I am now patiently awaiting the following to arrive at my library:

Can't wait to see this one. 

These pots look amazing.

I think paper mache is about to take on a whole new meaning for me. 

And I only thought paper mache was for making pinatas!

So instead of trying out a new media this week, I have simply increased the number of new projects I want to try.  Hopefully I'll get organized enough to actually make something in the next couple of days.