When used in conjunction with a boiled starch paste, newspaper becomes an ideal material for many construction purposes. From it numerous articles have been made, including the astronomical camera and boat illustrated in Fig. 44.

First a framework is constructed, preferably of wood, having slats that are placed fairly close together. The spacing of the slats depends, of course, on the desired final strength.

Next prepare a generous quantity of boiled starch paste. Take sufficient water for the amount of paste required and heat to boiling. While this is heating, mix common starch in a small quantity of cold water until it is perfectly smooth and of the consistency of heavy cream. When the water is boiling violently, remove it from the fire and stir rapidly while pouring the starch mixture into it. Keep on adding the starch until the paste is about the consistency of molasses. Use a good and reasonably stiff brush for applying the paste, and coat the wood frame first; then coat the paper with paste on both sides and apply it to the frame. If the paste is of the correct consistency, the paper will absorb it and appear quite wet.

Fig. 44. - The astronomical camera shown above was covered by using newspaper strips. The model hull Shown below was constructed by pasting many layers of newspaper on a framework of thin wood strips built to the shape required.

Layer after layer of paper is applied in this manner until from six to twenty or more layers have been used, according to the required strength. The paper should be forced into complete contact with the preceding layer with the paste brush. Apply pieces of all shapes and sizes, torn to shape rather than cut. as the ragged edges are less liable to form ridges on the finished surface.

As the paste dries it will cause the paper to contract and the finished article will be found to be very smooth and almost as hard as vulcanized fiber. In spite of its smoothness and hardness, it will not be brittle and therefore will not break easily. The covering can be sandpapered and even filed to remove any inequalities in the surface. Any desired finish can be used.