Welcome Trixy!

I'm rather new too, but I found the tutorials in this site to be very helpful in answering most of my questions.  Looking over old forum questions is another good source. 

I use cardboard or scrunched newspaper attached with masking tape to make my details, then cover with strip mache.  To make a smooth surface, I first make sure I smooth out air bubbles and wrinkles as much as possible when I apply the strips.  Then, when it is dry, you can use sandpaper to even out the ridges if needed.  A few coats of varnish or polyurethane after you've painted, will help protect your creation and help even more with the smooth surface. 

Also, I've just started experimenting with it myself, you could make your details using pulp mache. There are several recipes in the tutorials and in the forum.  Some for a porcelain finish.

Hope I've been of some help.  Sometimes it takes a while to get replies in the forum, but the advice and encouragement I've gotten from other experienced artists has helped me greatly.

Paper Rose 

Thank you both!  I did find the tutorial section and have been paper mache'ing all night.  I'm totally out of control.   

I'm trying my hand at making a box.  I'm experimenting so I took a box top and covered it with waxy coated type butcher paper.  I laid down strips of paper and am hoping when I am done with about 7 layers, I'll be able to pop it off the waxy paper and have a box top.  Has anyone made a box like this?  Like I said, I am totally new to this and will try just about anything with the supplies I have on hand.  More importantly, I am having a ball.

I am so glad I found this website.  There is so much good information!  If I ever get good, maybe I'll take some pics and share with you all.  I'm a bit embarrassed with what I've done after seeing all your pieces of art.  Thanks again!

Trixy