How to Make a Bee Hive Out of Paper Mache

Paper-mache started not long after the Chinese invented paper around 100 A.D. when people combined the new invention with natural glues to create bowls, boxes, and other items out of paper. The French gave it the name "paper-mache" (literally, chewed paper). Using colored paper, a balloon and a homemade paste, you can make a beautiful beehive out of paper-mache with no experience required.

Stir together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour with 2 cups of cold water in a medium sized bowl. Set aside.

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan.

Add flour and water mixture with boiling water. Bring to a boil again, stirring often.

Remove from heat and add 3 tablespoons of sugar. Cool completely before use.

Blow up the large balloon and tie a knot on the end.

Tear a newspaper into 4 inch strips, each 1.5 inches wide.

Drag strips of paper through the paste mixture, wiping off any excess paste with your fingers. Place the strips at an angle on the blown-up balloon. Repeat until the balloon is covered with a layer of paper and paste, leaving a 2-inch hole at the bottom of the balloon to pull it out.

Repeat Steps 3 and 4, adding a second layer on top of the first dried layer. Allow to dry.

Pop the balloon and pull it out through the bottom hole.

Spray paint the orb, following the directions on the side of the craft spray paint can. Allow to dry and place the yellow sticker over the hole on the bottom of the hive, where the balloon was pulled out.