This Art and design scheme of work video supports pupils as they begin creating their ancient Egyptian scrolls by making their own version of papyrus paper.

Children use watered-down PVA glue and strips of strong paper to build layered sheets that mimic the look and texture of real papyrus. Each child will need a waxed backing sheet to build on, and enough table space for their paper to dry flat overnight. The video demonstrates each step clearly, beginning by tearing the paper into strips about an inch wide, dipping each strip into the glue mix, and wiping off the excess. Lay the strips vertically, slightly overlapping, to cover the backing surface. Then add a second layer horizontally on top, again overlapping the edges to build strength and texture.

Pupils will need to make a few sheets each to use in future lessons. Any leftover strips can be used to make textured sketchbook pages or to create a ‘how to’ guide showing the steps in miniature.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 3 Ancient Egyptian scrolls unit.

See more of our Year 3 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 3, Craft and design: Ancient Egyptian scrolls, Lesson 3: Making paper.