What is papier-mache? How does it help us?

Hint: It is a pulp or wastes that are used in making trays, several ornaments etc. It can be made by seedling pots. It lasts for at least 2-4 days.

Complete Answer:
Papier mache is a composite or waste material which consists of some pulp or pieces of paper and these are sometimes enforced again with textiles or adhesive bound with some starch, glue or pastes. It is used widely in arts and crafts or used in the material of economical building or in many ceremonies.

There are two main processes of papier mache i.e. first method and second method. The first method is made use of paper strips that are glued together with the adhesive, and some of the other uses paper pulp is obtained by the soaking or boiling of paper to which glue is added. With the first method, a form for support is needed on which to glue the paper strips. With the second method, it is possible that it is needed to shape the pulp directly inside the desired form. In both methods, reinforcements with wire, lightweight shapes, balloons or textiles may be needed.

In Persia, papier mache is used for manufacturing small painted boxes or trays, sometimes cases. In Japan and China, laminated paper articles are also produced using papier-mache. In Japan and India, it is used to add decorative things or elements to armor and in many shields.

Note: The concept of paper mache was first used in Egypt in order to make death masks using plaster, linen and layers of papyrus. China, Japan and Persia are some other countries which use it too.