Papier maché is cheap, versatile and tough, so it is great for model buildings and rough stonework effects. I show how to create a couple of thatched cottages in 1:12 scale complete with roofs and windows.

The YouTube video I originally got the pulp recipe from is here:
   • Easy Paper Mache Clay Recipe  

You can also find a host of other great modelling ideas on the Ultimate Paper Maché channel.

Materials needed:
Thick cardboard
Papier maché pulp
Hot glue gun
Masking tape
A cheap rug (I used Hampen from IKEA)
Acrylic paints
PVA
Coarse Turf scenic scatter

I designed and 3D printed the windows and door frames. They are available to download for free from here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:474...

I also got fed up with my glue gun tipping over and never having glue sticks when I needed them. So I designed some stands, which will fit Bosch glue guns and also standard ones for either left or right handed people. They are available to download for free from here:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:474...

Texture rollers are also available to download from Thingiverse and other locations. The one I used is available here:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:430...

I scaled it to 150% to give a reasonable scale for 1:12 or 1:6, but it has quite rounded stones, more suitable for a stone path or lane.

There are others available with squarer stones, such as this:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:315...

You may have gathered that I am a fan of 3D printers as an extra tool for model work. Please have a look at my video here, which goes into more detail:
   • 3D printing for Stop Motion Modelmaking?  

These cottages have been designed as part of my stop motion film project “The Legend of Jan Tregeagle”. If you want to find out more:

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Music is by Bryan Teoh on www.freePD.com and Kevin MacLeod on www.incompetech.com