Make a papier mâché volcano that actually erupts

This experiment rocks!

Make a papier mâché volcano that actually erupts
by Natalie Keeler

Make a spectacular volcano using our simple paper mache recipe – then, add the ingredients to make your lava, and stand back to watch some incredible science magic.

The papier-mâché and paint will both take a while to dry, so it's best to spread this activity out over a few days. We promise it'll be worth the wait once you see the results!


Rather watch than read? Hit play on the video below!

You will need

  • An empty plastic bottle
  • Cardboard
  • Sticky tape
  • Foil
  • Paper-mache mix
  • Paints (red, orange, yellow, green, blue)
  • Paintbrush
  • 2-3 tsps bicarbonate of soda
  • Red floor colouring
  • Vinegar

How to make a paper mache volcano

Step 1

How to make a paper mache volcano

Attach a plastic bottle to a large square of cardboard using sticky tape.

Step 2

Scrunch up foil and create a mountain shape around the bottle.

Step 3

How to make a paper mache volcano

Make the papier mâché mixture and apply layers of newspaper strips with a paintbrush.

Step 4

How to make a paper mache volcano

Once fully dry, paint the volcano. We added green grass, grey rock, and red and yellow spewing lava.

Step 5

How to make a paper mache volcano

Now for the exciting part! Add 2-3 tsps of bicarbonate of soda, and a few drops of red food colouring.

Step 6

Paper mache volcano

Pour in the vinegar, then stand back and watch the volcano erupt!

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Creativity

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Science

Learning guide

This exciting activity combines art and science with explosive results! Your child can get creative making the volcano look fantastic, as well as learning the craft of papier-mâché. Then, they can watch a chemical reaction when vinegar and bicarbonate of soda combine. Why not use this activity as a springboard for your child to find out some fun volcano facts? And don't forget there are lots more fun ways to learn on the Giggly Shop.