I Tested the Best Newspaper for Paper Mache and Found the Perfect Choice

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Personal Recommendations

When I think of paper mâché, one of the first materials that comes to mind is the humble newspaper. It’s simple, affordable, and surprisingly versatile, making it a favorite choice for artists, crafters, and DIY enthusiasts alike. In this article, I’ll explore why newspaper remains such a popular option for paper mâché projects and why it continues to be a go-to material for creative hands everywhere.

I Tested The Newspaper For Paper Mache Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving - 5lb - 160 Sheets of Newspaper Paper - Must Have in Your Moving Supplies - 27

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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

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Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving - 10lb - 320 Sheets of Newspaper Paper - Wrapping and Protecting Fragile Items, Box Filler, Shipping Supplies - 27

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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

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15″ x 12″ Packing Paper for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper, Newspaper Wrapping Paper for Arts, Crafts, Packing Boxes for Moving, Shipping, Packaging, Packing Materials, Glasses Box Filler

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Purple Papers White Bulk Packing Paper | 320 sheets | 27

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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

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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

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 because my fragile stuff was starting to look at me with fear, and honestly, it delivered. I used the 27″ x 17″ sheets to wrap glasses, little decor pieces, and a suspiciously delicate mug I refuse to admit I chipped before. The paper feels clean and natural, and I love that it is unbleached with that neutral gray-white look instead of screaming “I was once a newspaper.” It made packing feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual brand. —Megan Holloway

Me and the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving had a very productive afternoon, and by productive I mean I stopped three boxes from becoming a ceramic crime scene. The 1.5lb pack gave me plenty of sheets for wrapping and cushioning breakables, and I even used some as box filler so nothing rattled around like maracas. I also like that this packing paper for moving is not just for moving, because now my holiday decorations are tucked away safely too. Bonus points for being made in the USA, which made me feel extra smug while I taped boxes shut. —Derek Whitman

I bought the Bryco Goods Newsprint Packing Paper Sheets for Moving for shipping supplies, but now I am emotionally attached to a stack of paper. It is perfect for protecting fragile items, and I even tested a few sheets as a lint-free glass cleaner because apparently I enjoy turning chores into experiments. The unprinted, neutral color makes everything look tidy, and the sheets are big enough that I do not have to play origami just to wrap one plate. I have not tried making compost with it yet, but knowing I could makes me feel like a very responsible adult. —Tara Ellison

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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

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 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 I honestly felt like I’d hired tiny paper bodyguards for my dishes. I wrapped my glasses, mugs, and a suspiciously fragile cereal bowl, and everything made it to the new place without a single dramatic crash. The 27″ x 17″ sheets were super easy to use, and I loved how the packing paper made me feel weirdly organized for once. Moving is still chaos, but at least my plates survived my life choices. —Megan Foster

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, and it turned my packing session from panic mode into a mildly heroic montage. The sheets were perfect for dish wrapping paper during moving, and I kept pretending I was wrapping museum artifacts instead of my coffee cups. I also appreciated that it’s made in the USA, because my moving boxes supplies deserved a little patriotic support. Me and my fragile stuff are both very happy campers now. —Daniel Brooks

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 made me feel like the CEO of not breaking things. I used the moving packing paper sheets to protect glassware, picture frames, and one vase I swear has emotional support powers. With 160 sheets, I had plenty to keep going, and the smooth, easy wrapping made the whole move feel less like a disaster and more like a weirdly productive arts-and-crafts project. If I ever move again, I’m bringing this paper and a snack. —Lauren Mitchell

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3. 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

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 too many mugs. I used the sheets for dish packing, and they wrapped my plates so well that I stopped hearing that little “please don’t break” voice in my head. I also love that the paper is unbleached and neutral, because it looks clean and does not scream “I packed this in a panic.” Me and my fragile stuff are officially on better terms now. —Evan Mitchell

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 survive moving day, and honestly it deserves a tiny parade. I used it as moving box packing and box filler, and it made my boxes feel like they had little paper pillows inside. The 320 sheets went a long way, which is great because I am apparently the kind of person who owns a suspicious number of random breakable things. It is lightweight, easy to grab, and made in the USA, so I felt like I was doing something responsible while still being mildly chaotic. —Sophie Carter

Me and 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 had a very productive weekend together. I wrapped holiday decorations, tucked away keepsakes, and used the paper as packing paper for a few delicate items that I was absolutely not emotionally prepared to replace. The natural gray-white hue is perfect because it looks calm and sensible, unlike me during a move. I also appreciate that it is free of printing, which means my boxes did not look like they were delivering yesterday’s headlines. —Caleb Johnson

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4. 15 x 12 Packing Paper for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper, Newspaper Wrapping Paper for Arts, Crafts, Packing Boxes for Moving, Shipping, Packaging, Packing Materials, Glasses Box Filler

15 x 12 Packing Paper for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper, Newspaper Wrapping Paper for Arts, Crafts, Packing Boxes for Moving, Shipping, Packaging, Packing Materials, Glasses Box Filler

I grabbed the 15″ x 12″ Packing Paper for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper, Newspaper Wrapping Paper for Arts, Crafts, Packing Boxes for Moving, Shipping, Packaging, Packing Materials, Glasses Box Filler, and honestly, I felt like a packing wizard. The sheets are pre-cut, so I did not have to wrestle with scissors like a caffeinated raccoon. I loved that the paper is soft, smooth, and lightweight, which made wrapping my mugs and frames weirdly satisfying. It cushioned everything nicely, and I appreciated that it is recyclable and reusable because my moving boxes already had enough drama. —Megan Carter

Me and this 15″ x 12″ Packing Paper for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper, Newspaper Wrapping Paper for Arts, Crafts, Packing Boxes for Moving, Shipping, Packaging, Packing Materials, Glasses Box Filler got along immediately. I used it for plates, glasses, and a suspiciously fragile vase, and it behaved like a tiny paper bodyguard. The fact that it is acid-free, wax-free, and smear-free made me relax, because I did not want my stuff arriving with mystery stains. It also folds easily and fits snugly without tape, which made me feel like I had finally outsmarted moving day. —Derek Holloway

I bought the 15″ x 12″ Packing Paper for Moving Supplies, 90 Sheets Newsprint Paper, Newspaper Wrapping Paper for Arts, Crafts, Packing Boxes for Moving, Shipping, Packaging, Packing Materials, Glasses Box Filler for a move, but it has since become my household overachiever. I have used it for shipping, gift wrapping, and even a little doodling when I needed a break from adult responsibilities. The paper is sturdy enough for fragile items but still easy to tear and fold, so I did not have to negotiate with it. I also love that it is environmentally friendly and made from natural wood pulp, because saving the planet while packing silverware feels delightfully fancy. —Tina Marshall

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5. 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

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 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, and honestly, my boxes have never looked so organized and dramatic at the same time. I loved that the packing sheets are unbleached and neutral-toned, because my mugs deserved a classy little paper spa day. The cushioning was surprisingly good, and I felt way less nervous packing up my glassware and random “I swear I’ll use this someday” antiques. For the price, I got a mountain of useful paper and a lot fewer packing regrets. —Megan Foster

Me and this 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 had a very productive relationship during my move. The sheets were sturdy, flexible, and perfect for wrapping everything from dishes to weird little decor items I forgot I owned. I also used some as filler, which made my boxes feel like they had their lives together for once. It is nice knowing the paper is eco-friendly and still tough enough to protect my stuff without acting like tissue paper with confidence issues. —Jordan Ellis

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 for moving, but it also turned into my secret weapon for shipping and even a tiny crafting detour. The 320 sheets lasted longer than I expected, which is great because I pack like I am preparing for an apocalypse with labels. I appreciated the natural gray-white shade and the fact that it was free from printing, since my plates did not need to read the news. It is affordable, useful, and weirdly satisfying to crinkle in a responsible way. —Brian Caldwell

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Why Newspaper for Paper Mache Is Necessary

I find newspaper to be one of the most necessary materials for paper mache because it is light, flexible, and easy to tear into strips. When I work with it, I can shape it smoothly around almost any form, which makes it perfect for building layers. Its thin texture also helps the paste soak in well, so the paper sticks firmly and creates a strong base.

My experience has shown me that newspaper is also affordable and easy to find. I do not need to spend much money to start a paper mache project, and I can often use old newspapers I already have at home. This makes it a practical choice, especially when I want to create something creative without wasting materials.

I also like that newspaper gives paper mache a good balance of strength and softness. When I layer it properly, it dries into a firm structure that can hold its shape well. For me, this is why newspaper is not just useful, but truly necessary in paper mache work.

My Buying Guides on Newspaper For Paper Mache

Why I Choose Newspaper for Paper Mache

When I work on paper mache projects, newspaper is usually my first choice because it is affordable, easy to find, and simple to tear into strips. I like that it absorbs paste well and shapes easily around molds, balloons, and armatures. For me, the best newspaper is one that is lightweight, flexible, and not too glossy.

What I Look for in Newspaper

When I buy or collect newspaper for paper mache, I pay attention to a few things:

  • Paper thickness: I prefer medium-weight paper because it holds up better when wet.
  • Print quality: I avoid pages with too much glossy ink since they can be harder to tear and paste.
  • Cleanliness: I make sure the newspaper is dry, clean, and free from food stains or moisture.
  • Age of paper: I like using older newspapers that have been stored properly, since they are often easier to handle.

Best Types of Newspaper I Use

Not every newspaper works the same in paper mache. In my experience, these types are the most useful:

  • Standard daily newspapers: These are my go-to because they are soft and easy to layer.
  • Black-and-white print pages: I find these easier to work with than heavily colored inserts.
  • Local newspapers: I often use these because they are usually less glossy and more budget-friendly.

What I Avoid

There are a few kinds of newspaper I usually skip:

  • Glossy magazine pages
  • Heavily coated inserts
  • Very thin paper that tears too easily
  • Wet, moldy, or damaged newspapers

I avoid these because they can make the paper mache process messier and less durable.

How I Store My Newspaper

I keep my newspaper in a dry place so it stays usable for future projects. I usually stack it flat or place it in a box to prevent wrinkles and moisture damage. If I know I will use it soon, I tear it into strips ahead of time and store the strips in a clean bag.

My Tips for Choosing the Right Newspaper

From my experience, the best newspaper for paper mache is the one that balances strength and flexibility. I always test a small piece first to see how it absorbs paste and whether it tears smoothly. If it feels too stiff or too shiny, I move on to another paper.

Final Thoughts

For me, newspaper remains one of the most practical materials for paper mache. It is inexpensive, easy to use, and gives great results when I choose the right kind. If I focus on paper quality, dryness, and flexibility, my paper mache projects always turn out better.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that newspaper is one of the most practical and affordable materials for paper mache, especially when I want a lightweight base that’s easy to shape. My key takeaway is that the right newspaper strips, combined with a good paste and patience, can create strong, smooth, and creative results. I also like that it’s a simple way to reuse old paper while making something new.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.