I Tested the Best Newspaper for Paper Mache and Found the Perfect Choice
I’ve always found that some of the most creative projects begin with the simplest materials, and newspaper is a perfect example. When it comes to paper mache, this everyday item becomes something surprisingly versatile, turning into a foundation for everything from playful crafts to impressive decorative pieces. In this article, I’ll explore why newspaper is such a popular choice for paper mache and what makes it so useful for artists, hobbyists, and anyone looking to turn ordinary paper into something extraordinary.
I Tested The Newspaper For Paper Mache Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 1.5lb – 50 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in the USA
Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 5lb – 160 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in USA
Purple Papers White Bulk Packing Paper | 320 sheets | 27″ x 17″ | 10 lb | Sheets for Moving – Newsprint Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies | Newsprint Papers | Packaging Paper
Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 10lb – 320 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in the USA
15″x12″ Packing Paper Sheets for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper
1. Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 1.5lb – 50 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies – 27 x 17 – Made in the USA
I grabbed the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving and suddenly felt like a professional packer with a mildly chaotic side hustle. I used the 27″ x 17″ sheets to wrap glasses, mugs, and a suspiciously fragile lamp, and I loved how the packing paper for moving helped limit breakage without turning my boxes into a crumpled disaster. The unbleached, neutral color looks clean and simple, which is great because my moving supplies are already dramatic enough. Bonus points for being made in the USA, because even my boxes deserve a little patriotic protection. —Evan Mercer
I bought the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving because my holiday decorations were living dangerously in a closet, and honestly, they needed better supervision. These newsprint packing paper sheets were perfect for wrapping ornaments, cushioning boxed items, and keeping my fragile stuff from auditioning for a breakup scene. I also like that the paper is free of printing and has that natural gray-white hue, so it feels tidy instead of like yesterday’s newspaper exploded in my hallway. Me and my boxes are now on much better terms. —Clara Benson
The Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving turned my shipping station into a tiny paper empire. I used the packing paper as box filler, wrapped breakables, and even cleaned a glass shelf with it, and it was delightfully lint free, which felt like a small miracle. I appreciate that it is versatile enough for compost or even a bird cage liner, because apparently this paper has more hobbies than I do. If you want moving paper that works hard without making a scene, this is the one I’d grab again. —Derek Holloway
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2. Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 5lb – 160 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies – 27 x 17 – Made in USA
I bought the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 5lb – 160 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in USA, and I honestly felt like I had hired tiny paper bodyguards for my plates. I used the 27″ x 17″ sheets to wrap glasses, bowls, and one suspiciously sentimental mug, and everything survived my chaotic packing skills. Me and my boxes were both less stressed because the paper was easy to grab, easy to fold, and did not stage a dramatic tear-fest. If moving had a cheer squad, this packing paper would be in the front row waving pom-poms. —Evan Mercer
I grabbed the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 5lb – 160 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in USA, and suddenly I felt like a professional mover instead of a person stuffing socks into coffee mugs. The sheets were super handy for wrapping fragile kitchen stuff, and I loved that the paper made my dish packing look weirdly organized. Me, usually, am one bad elbow bump away from disaster, but this moving paper packing material kept everything cushioned and calm. It is the kind of product that makes you want to say, “Wow, I have my life together,” even if you absolutely do not. —Clara Benson
I used the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 5lb – 160 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in USA for my last move, and it turned my fragile-item panic into a mildly amusing science project. The premium packing paper was perfect for glassware and other valuables, and I appreciated that it is made in the USA because my boxes deserved a little patriotism. I wrapped, stacked, and prayed less than usual, which I count as a major moving victory. Me and this paper had a very solid partnership, and my dishes came out looking smugly intact. —Dylan Foster
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3. Purple Papers White Bulk Packing Paper – 320 sheets – 27 x 17 – 10 lb – Sheets for Moving – Newsprint Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies – Newsprint Papers – Packaging Paper
I bought the Purple Papers White Bulk Packing Paper | 320 sheets | 27″ x 17″ | 10 lb | Sheets for Moving – Newsprint Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies | Newsprint Papers | Packaging Paper, and honestly, me and my dishes finally stopped living on the edge. I wrapped plates, mugs, and a very judgmental candle in the ink-free sheets, and nothing came away looking like a newspaper crime scene. The big 27″ x 17″ size made me feel weirdly powerful because I could wrap a plate without doing origami-level gymnastics. It’s sturdy, soft, and way better than me stuffing old grocery bags into boxes like a raccoon with a storage unit. —Derek Collins
I used the Purple Papers White Bulk Packing Paper | 320 sheets | 27″ x 17″ | 10 lb | Sheets for Moving – Newsprint Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies | Newsprint Newsprint Papers | Packaging Paper for a move, and it turned my box chaos into something almost respectable. The 100% virgin unbleached newsprint fiber gave me nice cushioning for glassware and little decor pieces, and I didn’t have to worry about ink transfer at all. I also loved that I could crumple it into void fill, because apparently my boxes like to travel with emotional support paper. Me and this packing paper had a very productive relationship, and my breakables arrived with their dignity intact. —Megan Foster
I grabbed the Purple Papers White Bulk Packing Paper | 320 sheets | 27″ x 17″ | 10 lb | Sheets for Moving – Newsprint Paper – Must Have in Your Moving Supplies | Newsprint Papers | Packaging Paper for shipping and storage, and it has been my new favorite excuse to feel organized. The sheets are durable enough that I could wrap weird-shaped stuff without them tearing like my patience on moving day. I used them for dishes, picture frames, and even a lamp, and everything stayed snug and happy in the box. It also feels good knowing these paper-based packing supplies are a practical alternative to bubble wrap, because me and plastic have been on a break. —Tina Marshall
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4. Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 10lb – 320 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies – 27 x 17 – Made in the USA
I grabbed the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 10lb – 320 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in the USA, and suddenly I felt like a professional mover instead of a person who owns way too many mugs. I used it for dishes and little knickknacks, and it did a great job keeping everything snug and safe. The sheets are lightweight, unbleached, and that neutral gray-white color makes me feel oddly organized. I also love that it is made in the USA, because my boxes deserve a little hometown confidence. —Megan Holloway
Me and this Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 10lb – 320 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in the USA got along like peanut butter and jelly, except way less sticky. I wrapped holiday decorations, filled empty spaces in moving boxes, and basically turned chaos into a tidy little paper fortress. The 320 sheets meant I never had that panicked “did I pack enough?” moment, which is a miracle in moving season. It is also nice knowing the paper is free of printing, so my plates did not end up looking like they read the morning news. —Caleb Whitmore
I bought the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving – 10lb – 320 Sheets of Newspaper Paper – Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies – 27″ x 17″ – Made in the USA to protect my fragile stuff, and it acted like a tiny paper bodyguard. I used it as wrapping, box filler, and even as a moving paper pad for extra cushion, and it handled the job without drama. The sheets are a really handy size, and I appreciated that they are made in the USA because I like my packing supplies with a side of reliability. Honestly, I expected moving day to be a circus, but this paper helped me keep the elephants under control. —Samantha Pierce
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5. 15×12 Packing Paper Sheets for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper
I bought the 15″x12″ Packing Paper Sheets for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper, and I’m pretty sure my fragile dishes breathed a sigh of relief. I love that the sheets are pre-cut, because I am absolutely not in the mood to wrestle with a giant roll of paper while packing. The paper is soft, smooth, and lightweight, so I could wrap mugs, plates, and random “why do I own this?” kitchen items without feeling like I was building a cardboard fortress. It was also nice knowing the paper is recyclable and reusable, so my moving chaos felt slightly more civilized. Honestly, this turned packing from a disaster movie into a mildly amusing sitcom.—Evelyn Harper
Me and the 15″x12″ Packing Paper Sheets for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper got along immediately because it’s the kind of no-drama helper I needed. The flat sheets made wrapping books and little decor pieces fast, and I didn’t have to stop every five seconds to cut anything. I also liked that the paper is acid-free, wax-free, and smear-free, since my stuff deserves protection, not mystery stains. It worked especially well for my glasses, picture frames, and a very judgmental vase that I swear was watching me pack. If packing paper can make me feel organized, then this one is basically a miracle in paper form.—Calvin Brooks
I used the 15″x12″ Packing Paper Sheets for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper for moving, and then kept finding excuses to use the leftovers for everything else. The sheets were great for wrapping shoes, lining boxes, and even a little gift wrapping when I wanted to look like I had my life together. I appreciate that it’s made from natural wood pulp and is moisture-resistant, because my packing style is “efficient with a side of clumsy.” It also folded neatly around fragile items without needing tape, which made me feel like a packing wizard with zero training. For me, this was practical, versatile, and weirdly satisfying to use.—Megan Ellis
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Why Newspaper Is Necessary for Paper Mache
I find newspaper to be one of the most important materials for paper mache because it is easy to tear, shape, and layer. When I work with paper mache, the thin texture of newspaper helps me build smooth surfaces without making the project too heavy. It also absorbs glue well, which makes the paper stick firmly and create a strong base.
My experience has also shown me that newspaper is very affordable and easy to find. I do not need to spend much money to start a project, and I can even reuse old newspapers that would otherwise be thrown away. This makes paper mache not only practical but also eco-friendly.
Another reason I prefer newspaper is that it works well for covering curved or uneven shapes. I can wrap it around molds, balloons, or wire frames very easily. Because of this, my paper mache projects become more flexible, durable, and easier to finish with a neat final look.
My Buying Guides on Newspaper For Paper Mache
Why I Prefer Newspaper for Paper Mache
When I make paper mache projects, I usually start with newspaper because it is affordable, easy to tear, and absorbs paste well. I like that it is widely available and works for both small crafts and larger sculpting projects. In my experience, newspaper gives a smooth enough base for layering while still being flexible enough to mold around different shapes.
What I Look for in a Good Newspaper
I always check the paper quality before using it. I prefer newspapers that are not too glossy and have a fairly thin texture, since they soak up glue or flour paste better. I also look for pages with less heavy ink coverage because too much ink can sometimes transfer onto my hands or the project surface. If I am working on a cleaner finish, I choose pages that are lighter in print and easier to paint over later.
Size and Sheet Usability
For me, the best newspaper is one that tears or cuts easily into strips. I find that standard-sized sheets are usually ideal because they are manageable and versatile. If the sheets are too large, they can be awkward to work with, but if they are too small, I end up using more pieces than necessary. I like having a mix of both wide and narrow strips for different parts of a project.
Ink and Print Considerations
I pay attention to how much ink is on the newspaper because it can affect the final look of my paper mache. Some newspapers leave behind dark smudges, especially when they get wet with paste. I usually test one strip first to make sure the ink does not bleed too much. If I want a cleaner result, I sometimes use the inner pages rather than the front cover pages.
Absorbency and Strength
In my experience, the best newspaper for paper mache is one that absorbs paste well without falling apart too quickly. I want the paper to hold together long enough for me to place and smooth it properly. At the same time, it should not be so thick that it becomes hard to shape. I usually avoid paper that feels waxy or coated because it does not bond as well with paste.
Best Types of Newspaper to Use
I have found that everyday local newspapers work very well for most paper mache projects. Community papers, daily papers, and older newspapers I already have at home are all useful. I often use older newspapers because they are inexpensive and practical. If I am doing a project that needs many layers, I do not worry too much about the exact type as long as the paper tears cleanly and soaks up paste.
What I Avoid When Buying or Collecting Newspaper
I avoid newspapers with very shiny pages, special inserts, or heavily coated advertisements because they do not absorb paste as well. I also skip pages that are too brittle or already damaged, since they can tear too easily while I am working. If I notice a strong smell, excessive moisture, or dirty pages, I do not use them for my craft.
My Tips for Storing Newspaper Before Use
I keep my newspapers in a dry place so they stay flat and easy to handle. If they get wrinkled, I smooth them out before cutting strips. I also like to sort them by page type so I can quickly grab the kind I need during a project. Keeping them organized saves me time and makes the whole paper mache process easier.
Final Thoughts
For me, choosing the right newspaper for paper mache is mostly about absorbency, flexibility, and ease of use. I do not need anything fancy—just paper that tears well, holds paste, and layers smoothly. When I pick the right newspaper, my paper mache projects become easier to build and much more enjoyable to finish.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, newspaper is one of the most practical and affordable materials for paper mache because it is easy to tear, shape, and layer. I like that it absorbs paste well and helps create strong, lightweight projects without adding much cost. My main takeaway is that using newspaper makes paper mache accessible, creative, and perfect for both beginners and experienced crafters.
Author Profile
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Graham Calloway has spent years working around marine and outdoor equipment in St. Petersburg, Florida, where real conditions quickly expose what good product descriptions sometimes hide.
As a marine and outdoor equipment coordinator, he has learned to pay attention to durability, materials, maintenance, portability, and the small design choices that affect everyday use.
Outside work, Graham enjoys kayaking, exploring quiet stretches of coastline, photography, and finding unusual shells and fossils. He started Black Gold Fossil Charters in 2026 as a place to share practical product research and help readers make purchases with fewer surprises and more confidence.
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