Is Paper Mache Clay Waterproof?

[@fredc882]

In Thailand, I took a papier mâché workshop and they put ciment in the papier mâché clay and after they seal the sculpture with a marine varnish. They told me that sculptures stay out in gardens for a very long time but I haven't experimented it myself. Thank you very much for all your videos, they are great and easy to understand.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

We have a guest post on my blog by a fellow who does that - and his pots are beautiful. He tells us that they stay out in the rain all the time, and they're doing great. If you'd like to see his post, it's here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/giant-pots-made-with-new-cementpaper-mache-clay-mixture

[@fredc882]

@@UltimatePaperMache Thank you very much I will have a look to the post. Thank you for all your sharing about papier mâché, much appreciated as I'm starting on this field. Have a good day

[@iwanttobelieve5970]

I put a Polyurethane coating first before I put Flexseal on it. I have two holiday decorations I use for the past 4 years. Rain, Snow and Squirrels and it's still great. I do need to add another Flexseal layer this year because it's a little thin. But, year 5 coming up.

[@timeenuf4200]

I never thought about putting the art in the rain at all. I mean if I spent all that time on something as beautiful as your basset hound there is no way I would put it in the rain. Good to know though. Thanks for the information. You and your art are beautiful.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

My Basset Hound (I think I'll name him Barney) won't go outside. But I do like the idea of making outdoor sculptures. I've given up on using paper mache clay for outside. My gnome is holding up really well, even in Minnesota winter, but he's not made with any kind of paper mache. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIqXiZKmrrt5j68

[@kismymailks]

I love the way you explain things. The Basset hound is really coming along is looks great.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks. I can't wait to finish it.

[@Sissalu]

I love your voice... I could listen to you talk all day! Thank you for this lovely channel.

[@Shuvah2Him]

Thanks for being honest in your answer

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome. I would hate to mislead people... 😀

[@blairwest3992]

Miss Jonni!!! You brighten my day and I can’t get enough of your work! 🥰

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Oh thank you! 😀

[@alienangel777]

I love your work! Thanks for addressing this. I have used a mix of cement and drywall in the original recipe, and it's rock solid and waterproof.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Interesting!

[@Sue-ec6un]

I love your work! And watching you has helped me with sculpting of all mediums! Thank you!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's great!

[@HilaryBravo]

Looking back into the history of papier-mâché does throw some light on this problem. 'Henry Clay (I have some examples of his work - perfect in every way) of Birmingham, England, patented a process for treating laminated sheets of paper with linseed oil to produce waterproof panels in 1772. These sheets were used for building coach door panels as well as other structural uses.'

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Interesting - Is there a book that goes into the technique with more detail?

[@Sides3Sides]

Thank you for that information. It’s important to me, because I’ve been planning outdoor sculpture. ❤️

[@judyhinckley5403]

Ever since I first saw one of your videos I have made so many wonderful items. The largest being a 8 ft long, 3 ft high, 3 ft wide diorama of a fairy forest all enclosed in glass. Then a 3 ft by 4 ft castle for my grandson. I’ve been a professional wood carver and painter for most of my life and your video came along at the right time for me to try something new. I love paper mache. Thank you for sharing your talent and wisdom with us. Your the best!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Hi Judy. I would love to see your work. That diorama sounds wonderful, and the castle ... If you want to share, you can post photos on my website. www.ultimatepapermache.com/daily-sculptors-group-page

[@tjduprey]

With the constant exposure to rain, then bringing it back in and drying and re-exposing then drying... i would be concerned about mold.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Yes, you'd need to dry it quickly. Or use something other than paper mache for outdoor sculptures.

[@darajones8838]

you’re so talented. thank you for your videos and recipes!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome. 😊

[@nanaphillips8250]

I have tried your clay and I love it. I have made 3 turtles for outside 3 years ago and added several good coats of flex spray. I live in Florida and it rains often. My turtles are still alive! However they need resprayed with the flex spray each year.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks for letting us know! We have a guest post on my blog by a lady who also lives in Florida, and she uses a similar product called Rustoleum Leak Seal. She says it works really well, too. Your suggestion to give it a new coat every year is really helpful. Thanks! 😊

[@maryelizabethcalais9180]

Your videos are so enjoyable; tks for doing these. I found some pulp plant pots that are apparently sealed w something to maintain water for a while in the garden. I'd like to make my own for veggie plants and I'm wondering if there is a finish that would be food-safe to apply to the pots. Even if they last just one season is fine; I like the natural look in my Edible Farmscaping. Will be awaiting your response; thanks a lot.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I don't know of a food-safe finish, but there is an altered recipe for waterproof paper mache clay on my website that was written by one of my readers. He made pots for outdoors, and he says they're still looking great several years later. I haven't tried his recipe yet, but I intend to do that next to see if it works. You can see his article here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/giant-pots-made-with-new-cementpaper-mache-clay-mixture I don't know if his pots are food safe or not.

[@rozanidesignsmasquerade7050]

Great explanations❣️Paper is porous. It gets wet & it may stay dry for a while when coated with this or that. This is the case with any type of paper clay or Mâché. Though, it is relative to whether or not it has been torn or punctured somehow or even made brittle by too much sun.. Also the amount of humidity and/or pouring rain. Thanks so much for educating the good folks out there. Love your hound❣️👍💜💚💛

[@love-lightx3857]

I bought DAP joint compound because it's all my Wal-Mart had. Then I saw in your video that you said not to get DAP. Could I still use it?

[@terrysharing]

What a great explaination on the llimitations of paper mache. Years ago I was very in to paper mache but haven't done much in my later years. It still intriques me and your channel has enlightened me as to how much has changed since 40 years ago. I also did a time with hypertuffa and immediately thought of portland cement as you were talking about this. But that cement would make anything much more heavy. I'm thinking also that Warren's idea would work in a realtively regular climate but I'm not sure about around here where temperatures fluctuate from 0º to 90º over the year. I'm thinking, with paper included, those pots would crack for sure. I'm going to check out Warren's channel and see what's happening there. Thanks for a very insightful and interesting presentation!

[@davidhill1220]

You have made that dog look sooo real I’m jealous Thank you for your expertise Patricia

[@jeanlucandrieu9533]

bonjour super toutes vos vidéos merci ma question peut on mettre ces sculptures dehors comment les protéger des intempéries hello great all your videos thank you my question can we put these sculptures outside how to protect them from bad weather or we have to use another mixture such as cement thank you

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Paper mache clay is not waterproof. I recommend using a waterproof material for outdoor sculptures. Did you see my gnome videos? kzbin.info/www/bejne/rom2pIWlap5-rdE

[@yietso]

I know also that at the beginning of papier mâché they used to add linseed oil and cook the pieces into an oven. They even used the part in temporary housing that went to Australia and resisted the big monsoon.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Yes - and I've even heard of people making boats with it. But not with the recipes we have now.

[@wendynieddu468]

You are such an amazing artist!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thank you - that's very kind of you.

[@shelleywhitehead8029]

Wow. Thank you for all the knowledge and experience you share with us. Love your work.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

My pleasure! 😊

[@cocotour]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge!! This is the most helpful source I’ve ever come across in my crafting explorations haha

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Awesome, thank you! 😊

[@Fruity_pebbles190]

Your sculptures are AMAZING!!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thank you so much!

[@thekenmorgan]

What about including some latex paint in the mix? That method is what makes monster mud somewhat weatherproof. What are your thoughts?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I haven't tried it, but it might work. But the paper and joint compound are both really absorbent. Have you done any experiments with it?

[@bryannoyce]

Have you tried a "raw" "drying oil" like raw linseed oil. I use soybean oil because it is cheaper, and you can just get it at the grocery store, its usually labeled "vegetable oil". I have not tried it on paper mache. The reason I think it may work is because it will soak completely into the sculpture before polymerizing. This means you would have to coat it, wait several days, coat it again, and repeat. You might be able to cut the time by putting on a few coats of straight raw oil, then applying a final coat made by heating the oil on the stove and adding wax, when cooled it should be the consistency of a smooth paste. The final coat should make it bead water, if it doesn't, better apply more. Also, one would have to "polish" the piece from time to time, that is to say, apply more oil whenever it starts to look "dry". Or if it starts to absorb water. Putting more wax on it might be good too. I don't know if any of this information will help anyone, but if I get to see more yard art created by individual artists, instead of bought at the store, it will be worth it. :)

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I have not tried that. I decided several years ago that I'll make garden art with materials that are made for that purpose, instead of trying to make paper mache last longer in the rain and snow. But if you try it, please let us know if you can get it to work.

[@lisarhall7324]

I love your beautiful work and appreciate your sharing this with us! A new project for my grandchildren! They will love it!!! 🥰❤️

[@victoriaelledge9837]

Thank you for this recipe and this information . Good to know especially about the Spar Varnish.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SaikatDey]

Loved your work!💐

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thank you - 😀

[@joanbennettnyc]

I increase the Water-Resistance of mine by substituting up to 40% of the water with latex house paint and using Titebond premium wood glue in place of white glue. Adding water-based enamel paints rather than house paint has given me interesting effects. Jonni, if bags of cement are too large: art stores, Michael's, and Home Depot often have 5, 10, and 20 pound options. I've also added Ultracal and Hydrostone sometimes Thank you for your spectacular talents

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Have you left your paper mache clay items outside for a long time? Or do you just use them for temporary outdoor displays?

[@joanbennettnyc]

@@UltimatePaperMache They were outside for two years on a 30th floor balcony in NYC with another balcony above it, so while it was exposed to the elements -- mostly lots of wind, rain, and ice -- it was nothing like your winters. It also faced north, so it was protected from a lot of sun. Still, after two years, they were just dirty rather than damaged.

[@GardenWithFairiesDIY]

Hi! We talked about this topic in the comments. I told you that I impregnate my fairy houses with water repellent before painting them. Remember? I am still haunted by the desire to make the clay itself waterproof, so as not to depend so much on the protective coating. I made a short list of experiments that I plan to do with papier-mache clay. Wish me luck:))

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Good luck. I believe I tried to find the water repellent that you mentioned (I forget now what it was called) and I couldn't find it listed here in the U.S. I do wish you luck, and I hope that you'll share your waterproof recipe when you get it figured out. 😺

[@GardenWithFairiesDIY]

@@UltimatePaperMache Yes, of course! If something works out, I'm always ready to share new experiences.))

[@aliloucreations1817]

I think you are amazing, I wouldn’t put my makes outside permanently anyway , they are precious, I’d love to be able to make them all , I need more practice 😂 , but I love your channel ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@triciamcmillan2653]

I want to use acrylic paint on paper mache letters, then hang them on my bathroom wall. Will the paint protect the letters from the condensation caused by a shower?? Is there something I can spray on the letters after the paint sets to help with the dampness?

I love you work! It is amazing! It would be nice if you could do some videos with Halloween theme!!😍

[@rogerphillips4211]

If you want to make your paper mache clay waterproof, you need to seriously consider, that you are absorbing humidity and moisture from the atmosphere to the inside of the sculpture. If you can apply your varnish both inside and outside and make sure that it is completely sealed inside and out, you might succeed in keeping it waterproof. 1 crack however and it will allow moisture to absorb into the interior of the sculpture.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Good points, Roger. Thanks.

[@lucindarice]

Does adding the Portland cement to the paper clay cause it to harden faster? How much actual time do we have to work with a batch. That would determine how much to mix each time. Thank you. Also I have learned anything that I cover with fabric stiffener, powertex, paverpol, or fa-Brick can be left outside. I usually do two coats. My last sculpture was out for 9 years. That was in the Midwest.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

If you're making something for outside, use this recipe: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aaCpkKeBlreceLs The cement does make it get hard faster. I was able to work with it for about four hours, but that will depend on the temperature of the room where you're working. I would make a small batch, and make more when you run out.

[@lucindarice]

@@UltimatePaperMache Thank you so very much. You're the best. I love your videos.

[@barnacles62]

For varnish to be water tight, it has to be applied in several coats. On boats for instance, if you see the old mahogany Chris-Crafts shine, that is avarnish. I have seen boat restorers put over 20 coats, sanding in between each coat. You could put enough on to seal it, but Im not sure how the two would react together, as far as cracking or even breaking perhaps. However, old wooden boats take a beating, and until it ages awhile, its really a strong substance....

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Great tips - thanks! 😀

[@dianesparks2078]

I love all your videos and you are a special person, One question I have is how do I get to the links you talk about? and what type of paper did you use for you lion king head mask. can you use brown paper grocery bags?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Hi Diane. I tried to put all the links in the description, right below the video. Did I miss some? The paper I used for the lion king masks came from Amazon.com cartons - the stuff they use to keep smaller boxes from bouncing around inside bigger boxes. I always have a lot of it. It's slightly lighter than normal grocery bags, but the bag paper would work, too. You could also use torn strips of newspaper.

[@joyc7875]

Can you add acrylic paint or alcohol ink to the paper mache clay? Does it change the composition of it?

[@pamelagoddessoe6964]

I started to read through comments for an answer But remembered that you appreciate comments 😘 I'm curious to know if exterior wood glue has ever been used in lieu of Elmer's glue? When I first started seriously making fairy houses I made a chimney using Elmer's interior/exterior wood glue to adhere stones to wood. It has spent a minimum of 4 seasons outside. I have not cleaned or clear coat protected for the last 3 years. Last spring only a few stones at the very top came loose. That's even in winter! It's currently under snow!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I have not tried using wood glue to help make the original paper mache clay recipe waterproof. However, I did make a new recipe that uses Portland cement in place of the flour, and my experimental sculpture has now been outside all winter in Minnesota, and it's still doing fine. You can find that recipe here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnvdm3yQi9GGmpo - but if you try the wood glue idea, we would love to know if it works! :)

[@wishasmiler320]

Hi Thanks a lot for your videos, your work is absolutly amazing! Have you tried with some epoxy layers?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I've used epoxy clay for noses, and used it instead of paper mache for outdoor sculptures. Is that what you meant? Or do you mean using it instead of glue or paste with paper strips?

[@wishasmiler320]

@@UltimatePaperMache thanks for your answer... I saw your beautiful work with the epoxy clay, but I was meaning to use clear laminating epoxy as top coat, like a "vernish"

[@sharonfarmer7106]

Hello 👋 Jonni I recently found you on KZbin 😊thank you so much for your videos. I’ve bought one of you books today and will keep watching you

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Hi Sharon. Thanks! 😀

[@tjduprey]

Water RESISTANT is what papier mache becomes with varnish. Boat varnish has to be removed from boats periodically and reapplied as well.

[@stephanieswartz]

It's nice to know what to expect if paper maché clay sculptures are exposed to some moisture while outside.

[@keithwoolley7918]

Have you tried shellack mixed with methalated spirits this is used by model railways wooden and card coaches a bit messy but it works for that

[@Sue-ec6un]

Flex seal is awesome! Maybe because she used it UNDER the paint. There is a clear flex seal probably best to cover finished project.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's possible. But it was the paper mache clay that was ruined, not the paint. But maybe the clear product works better than the paintable version?

[@jeremylee8844]

I asked on a different video but I wanted to know could you use Thompson's water seal to replace the water used in the tp breakdown and acrylic caulking to replace the white glue? This would maybe work in the waterproofing process. As well as that an exterior paint when painting. Do you think this would work for permanent waterproofing.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Hi Jeremy - it would take some experimenting to find out if this would work or not. If you try it, please let us know what you find out.

[@jeremylee8844]

Yes I surely will. Thank you for getting back to my . Blessed Be

[@teresawright5654]

Does flexseal been to go on last? Also I know cement is not waterproof but I was wondering if using marine glue instead would make a difference?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I don't know - you'd need to do some experiments.

[@aprilrazmus4716]

I love your channel, it inspires me!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks! 😀

[@trinaharris4904]

Really like your information. We completed two life size deer, and painted them several coats of house-paint, and varnished them and allowed weeks for curing inside with a fan. And we just saw this video of yours. Ooops--you mean we can't leave our yard deer outside in the rain or winter? >: thankyou in advance

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You can try it - some people have very good success with house paint and varnish. But keep an eye on them, and if they start to soften bring them back inside to dry out.

[@trinaharris4904]

@@UltimatePaperMache Thankyou--my husband and i so enjoy your videos! thankyou

[@KyleenDrake]

Once you have the paper mache sculpture you can then use resin and make a resin cast of it to place outside and not worry about it?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Yes, a resin casting should be waterproof. The Brick in the Yard YT channel has a lot of videos about casting resin, like this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnjSh4uMbZuUfKc

[@KyleenDrake]

@@UltimatePaperMache Yeah I'm familiar with The Brick In The Yard. And that was more of a suggestion for you for the next time you make a turtle you want to put outdoors.

[@yietso]

Did you try epoxy? There are some gel epoxy that you could apply with a brush or a regular one. I have done papier mâché bowls with plaster and decorated with acrylic, covered with epoxy resin and washed it under water without any problems.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

No, I haven't tried it, but I'm sure there's some product out there that might work. Most products do break down in the sun, though, and even the smallest crack will let water in.

[@patytrico]

Nice to know, thank you for the tips and anecdotes, we are just starting to make little things for Christmas and is good to know that is better to maintain them inside :) Glad to found your channel, suscribed! Hugs from Uruguay :)

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Glad it was helpful! Have a great Christmas. 😀

[@mikibrits3462]

Hello Jonni (from South Africa)! You have probably been asked this question many times but I haven't come across the answer yet so Please be patient with me? Ok, so the products that you use like 'flexi' something, I have never heard of it so I use plaster of paris….. my question is, items that I make (paper mache)… can I immerse them into epoxy ( pyramids) or will there be a clash of products so that I end up with a big chunk of goo? Is the paper mache ornament stable enough? I should try it out but the thing is all the epoxy products I have to order from either China or the USA..... and that takes weeks... sometimes I don't even receive it! So I'm extremely frugal with what I have! Has anyone done this before, and what ere the results? Thank you Jonni.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Hi Miki. I don't actually use the Flex Seal myself. It doesn't always seem to work for other people, so I haven't experimented with it. I also don't work with liquid epoxy products, but it's possible that a two-part epoxy could create a waterproof shell that would protect paper mache. Even a pinhole in the coating would be enough to let water in, though, so you'd probably want to experiment on something small that you won't mind losing if it doesn't work. I did make a squirrel with epoxy clay, and it's been outside for three years. The gnome I made recently has an epoxy clay face, and it held up well during our Minnesota winter. There is no paper inside either of those sculptures, except for the cardboard pattern, and it's completely covered with tape and aluminum foil.

[@mikibrits3462]

Thank you Jonni, I think I will have to try it out. I will let you know how it turns out? You are a diamond! Thanks again!

[@mert828]

I've seen folks mix epoxy resin in their paper mache clay. And also in their joint compound top coat. Then a coating epoxy resin on top?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That sounds expensive. I wonder if it wouldn't be about the same cost as using epoxy clay instead of paper mache clay - then the sculpture would be waterproof all the way through and there would be no resin fumes. Hmmm - something to think about...thanks!

[@joycallender6086]

Is paper mache clay heat-proof? I need to make a bird prop and am going to experiment with your clay. I'm thinking of covering it with a thermoplastic called Fosshape so it has a sort of 'coat'. (It is a cosplay prop and has no feathers.) Hoping to make prototype this weekend.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I have not tried to use it with Fosshape, so I don't know if it would work or not. I know you can put it in an oven, but if the temp goes over 250F the glue starts to smell pretty bad. If you try it, I hope you'll let us know how your experiments turned out.

[@davescheer5038]

So after your sculpture is done could a coat of general purpose fiberglass resin be put as a top coat to saturate and seal a sculpture or project, thus make it a lot stronger and shield it from any weatherproof moisture. Or a water proof wood glue might work .

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Maybe - but anything you use will be an experiment. I think it makes more sense to use a material that's waterproof for long-term outdoor sculptures. But if you find something that works well, and doesn't cost more than using epoxy clay or concrete to start with, be sure to let us know.

[@lindseymarie2751]

I am completely new to paper mache, your videos popped up as recommended, and I gotta say I’m so happy they did. I absolutely love your videos!! Thank you for posting them all

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome. I'm glad you're having fun with them.

[@ilgyshan]

I made pumpkins last year, I after rain I brought them inside, they went back to “normal” but I found out they got mold in the inside and had to trash them.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

They probably didn't get dry fast enough to keep the mold from growing. Paper mache doesn't do well outside. Next Halloween, you might want to try the Paper Cement Clay recipe, instead. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnvdm3yQi9GGmpo

[@ShotgunAndAShovel]

I wonder if a small bit didnt get coated with sealant and water got in. lots of water can enter through a tiny part.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Maybe - but that could happen at any time in the life of a sculpture. A bird could peck a hole, or the sun could crack the sealant. Lots of ways for a paper sculpture to be damaged in the weather, no matter what is used to make it waterproof.

[@jaytomioka3137]

The Grand Canyon is proof that nothing is truly waterproof! Eventually water always wins.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

So true... but my gnome (not made with paper mach clay) is still doing really well outside. Not as long as the Grand Canyon, of course... 😀kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIqXiZKmrrt5j68

[@dle9180]

Way back in the 70s , I made an art project of a little fat man with a pipe. Eventually I stuck him in my garden until he melted.it was pretty good to see.

[@vanissaberg5824]

The cement idea reminds me of the paper crete stucko my family made to coat the outside of our rammed earth bag house. We Shredded old newspaper in a wood chipper and wetted it down in a cement mixer with water, sand, lime pwd, and some cement. It has the same consistency as paper mache except it's whether resistant.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I've seen videos of that process, and it looks like a lot of work. But I'd love to try it. Did you enjoy living in your earth bag house? Was it round?

[@vanissaberg5824]

@@UltimatePaperMache yes it was a round house and very interesting living off the grid in the woods. That was my dad's dream of living in an earthen home in a rural area on solar and wind energy. A lot of work and all wood heating. We did lots of gardening and had goats, chickens and a cow for milk and eggs. We had a creek nearby where us kids used to swim in the summer. The only problem with the papercrete stucko was the stingless carpenter bees loved to burrow their nests in the walls, but they're harmless pollinators and the kids liked to hold and pet them because they didn't sting lol.

[@deborah879]

thank you so much I wondered about flexseal, I'll try that this summer. I'm going over to check out the cement recipe.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

If you try the flexseal, please let us know if it works. Some people say it does, some people say no. I'd really like to get feedback from more people about the product.

[@deborah879]

@@UltimatePaperMache oh yeah I sure will. I love your recipe it works the best I've used so far. I have played around with different papers, but all the other ingredients, and measurements are exactly yours. I like used watercolor paper you get from walmart, and the car truck advertising book that you find at grocery stores that paper shreds up nice in my food processor, now I boil the watercolor paper until its soft, the different watercolor paper time varies in how it softens up. with watercolor paper when I get it in the food processor i put a tiny bit of water in, that helps keep it moving as it shreds, when that's done I squeeze out the water. How I found out about the watercolor paper for paper mache, a video here on youtube its used to fix ceramics that have cracked or just broke. Lady was show how to repair that kind of thing. I mixed up to fix a cookie jar lid, of course its not waterproof but I only have it on a shelf, it was my grandmothers so I've tried save it. I have quite a bit mixed up and I ran out of the regular mache and the toilet paper shortage had me at a stand still but i didn't let that stop me LOL, it helped me to experiment with other paper for this art. oh before I forget what I wanted to tell you about the watercolor paper is its very hard and pastel colored as I used the old scraps. A new piece makes very white mache. and its really hard, I like the carving part of this medium and it takes strong hands to get carving done. oh and another problem I ran into was I used up all the white glue, and used gorilla wood glue, it cures out very hard and almost feels like plastic. I love paper mache, and hahaha I did make the raven, I've carved it up so many times because it just didn't look right. I swear I dream about ravens now. I'm taking my time with the wings because for 1 thing there's clothes hanger wire in the wings, and I really don't want to carve anymore than I have to LOL also I want it to look like its just landed on a moon. Now the moon which is a rubber ball I've covered with paper mache clay. I'm putting a lot of the clay on the ball so it stays good and strong for as long as lasts. I wanted to ask how long will the sculptures last ? I get to rambling on and on, I do hope I didn't confuse anyone.

[@JanineMKartist]

Going to watch this when I get home from work. I’m just about ready for this step on my part unicorn part dragon. Looking forward to watching this. I’m trying to decide if I should make my scales with apoxie clay. Not sure if I have enough .

[@JanineMKartist]

I think I’m going to may scales with polymer clay canes and adhere them with apoxie clay.

[@shannonvolz7030]

Does anyone have experience with applying resin on top of a paper mache sculpture?? I am wanting to make paper mache wall hangings for plants but I’m concerned about water leakage and molding.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I don't use resin myself normally. You need to use a lot of caution when using any kind of resin. If you don't use the right safety precautions, you could lose a few brain cells - or worse, so do a lot of research before trying it out. I do believe that Aqua Resin is less toxic than most resin products. I found a cosplay guy on KZbin who uses resin to make his papercraft helmets stronger, and you can see his video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZ3dZZRppJ6qmdk and I found a lady who uses resin and paper mache for jewelry and other items. She has a video about making paper mache flowers stronger here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3mbYXiFlrBohJo I couldn't find anyone using resin to waterproof paper mache.

[@shannonvolz7030]

@@UltimatePaperMache wow! Thank you for such a detailed reply! I can definitely do some experimenting and let you know how it all works out!

[@suzysaavedra]

Is the clay with the drywall joint compound safe to wear as a mascot head type situation?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

It isn't very comfortable to wear directly next to the skin. The paper mache clay dries as hard as a rock, and even after sanding (which isn't easy!) the dried clay has a slight texture that would rub against the skin. I recommend using at least one layer of paper strips and paste first, and then use the paper mache clay for details like eyebrows or whatever. That way, it will be much more fun to wear.

[@raggletaggle8827]

Cute tortoise! Poor thing, haha. Reminds me of an aspiring new sculptor I met when I joined a cooperative art gallery....she was SO proud of a pigeon she made using *air dry clay*. That Daz brand stuff. I was mortified...because once she said she put it outside, I could already see where the story was going! And yep - the poor thing 'melted' in the british rain rather quickly. It's also worth mentioning that yacht/marine varnish tends to be highly flammable. If people want to keep a sculpture outside and never bring it back in - then that should be safe enough as long as they put it in the right location. But yacht varnish generally isn't recommended for interior use - it's kind of like gasoline once a flame gets too close to it. I also kind of put what the experts said to the test by going outside and placing a large driftwood stag I made on the a bonfire (it was falling apart anyway, plus the yacht varnish was already all over it before I learned how flammable the substance was). The amount of flames and smoke that instantly rose once I threw it on the fire was absolutely intense. The stag alone must've added at least 8 feet of extra smoke and flames! I really am glad it didn't catch fire while I had it on display in the house one christmas. That would've been truly chaotic. (Weirdly enough I didn't even learn this in an art book or anything like that - in fact a lot of art blogs have people recommending yacht varnish indoors because they don't know better. I only was fortunate enough to stumble upon this fact during one of those gruesome 'true crime' type documentaries. A police detective spoke about how highly flammable yacht varnish was and how it's not meant for indoors - the subject only came up because the case was about a murder committed via arson and yacht varnish. You can imagine how my heart sank when I heard that and looked around at the amount of 'early' works I had that were caked in the varnish!) So - nowadays I do recommend other sculptors I meet freelancing generally don't ever apply the varnish unless they intend for the sculpture to be only used in open outdoor spaces and to be disposed of after use. A lot of them don't realise just how flammable dry marine varnish really is. I tend to opt with either Decoart and general acrylic paint varnish for smaller projects - but if I'm making a larger sculpture, I go to the DIY store and buy a bigger can full of interior varnish. Even if it's designed for wooden indoor furniture - it tends to do about the same thing.

[@rozanidesignsmasquerade7050]

Oh, my! Good to know about the flammability factor. Interesting.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

This is really important information, Raggle, and I've never seen it mentioned before. Thanks for letting us know!

[@Ludifant]

I guess adding waterglass (sodium silicate) will work. They use it to seal concrete, which also suffers from water. You´d need to put it in, not on, because else with a little bit of crack, the water will get in and the paper will grow and crack the sealing layer. Also you could look at papercrete. (that´s the one with portland cement) With cement flexbond is also better. Anything flex doesn´t cracx.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Have you tried using sodium silicate with this recipe?

[@lanajantz2240]

Thank you! Great video!

[@kalpanaoliver9637]

I wash my papier mache stuff with water and wipe it with cloth..also i applied varnish to protect it from humidity..mine is ok inside..but out side my papie mache deer got mold on it

[@cziegfeld458]

Very informative...Thank you🙂

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome. 😺

[@juliebrown9483]

What about the new interest product clear resin! Would that be suitable for outside?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I don't know. I haven't seen that product. You'd have to try it.

[@katywrightgallery6523]

Very informative, thanks!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome. 😊

[@katywrightgallery6523]

@@UltimatePaperMache Hi, Jonni, thanks for the reply. PC Petrifier is the brand name of an eco-friendly wood hardener that is used by contracters and dyi folks who are trying to repair wood rot, when it is possible to repair. It is a milky liquid, and it soaks into the wood and leaves a somewhat shiny surfact on the paper beads that I dip in it. I am busy on a deadline for a collaborative art installation, so don't have time to experiment with it right now. But I will try as I get into paper and cardboard mache projects. I am a neophyte, so I'm trying to research it before investing time in it. Just sharing because it's frustrating when someone starts a brain worm subject then leaves you hanging, right? LOL? Thanks again for all you do, you and your channel are a true blessing.

[@jenl1541]

I love you, love watching your posts 🥰

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊 thank you!

[@sheilapendley1716]

Thank You for all your information!

[@Nutamu]

I wonder if it were possible to coat a paper mache sculpture in resin to make it more water proof?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Maybe. You'd have to try it. If there's even a tiny crack or pinhole, the rain will get in - but a two-part resin might be a good coating. If you try it, please let us know if it works.

[@stefhendrik6977]

I otoh am looking to make pm floats/ boats to put out the ashes of my dad on a river. It's there a vid for that?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

No, I'm afraid I don't have one. However, I assume you'd want it to stay afloat for a little while, and then safely biodegrade. It's possible that you could achieve that with normal paper mache, made with newspaper and a flour and water paste, and then use a thin coat of wax or just a coat of varnish on the bottom of the boat. Make sure you use materials that won't harm the fish, of course. To avoid the wax or varnish, you could try making the boat out of corrugated cardboard. It might stay afloat for a little while without being sealed.

[@queenofzenk]

It probably also highly depends on local climate, somewhere super humid and hot isnt going to be ideal. A desert might be okay for a couple weeks? 🤷‍♀️

[@UltimatePaperMache]

If they don't get rained on, it should be fine. I lived in near desert and tried to waterproof a paper mache clay sculpture with marine varnish, and the sun cracked the varnish. Then it rained. But flexseal might stand up to the sun better than varnish - I just haven't tried it yet.

[@gem9136]

im thinking of doing the roof of my van with paper mache. It is a pop top so I need something lightweight and I am thinking ill do paper mache clay on it, then a layer of Polyurethane and then do a flex seal layer on top to secure it in and prevent mold from the

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Interesting - let us know how it turns out.

[@melbabowen4389]

Love your videos!

[@zenign]

Have you tried mixing paper mache clay with wood glue instead? I wonder if that would do the trick.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

No, I haven't tried it. If you do, please let me know if it works.

[@kathleenrussell5782]

I love your insights

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😄

[@donnaweathersartist7536]

Has anyone tried to put a coat of resin on one? I bet that would work. I’ve watched several videos on doing a “resin dip”. One was a silk flower so my thinking is that if you can brush resin on one of those, you can brush resin on one of these.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I don't know if anyone has tried that or not, but it sounds really interesting. Have you tried it?

[@LNSayreLLC]

Your work is amazing! Great information I am making art panels that are made out of repurposed cardboard and wood just looking for ideas of how to keep the products nice.

[@davidanthonyfineart]

Do you think using wood glue instead of regular glue would make the paper clay waterproof or more waterproof?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Maybe, but I doubt it. Every other ingredient in the mixture absorbs water. It might be worth experimenting with, though. If you try it, be sure to let us know how it turns out.

[@sandystreeter266]

It could be the humidity in the climate. I lived in south anb north usa and several things i was doing and using i had to switch. Do the different cliamant.

[@lilianakrupinski5787]

Is it flammable?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I don't know - I've never tried to burn it. I wouldn't put it right in front of an electric heater, though. If you're intending to use it as a candle holder or a similar project, do some tests first.

[@silgamabiscuit]

Eu não entendo nada do seu idioma! Mas o seu trabalho é admirável! ❤️

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thank you. 😺

[@pemizavaro6408]

Have you tried Cementitious Coating?

[@patsbeads]

I love your work,, so creative.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks. 😺

[@monicarosado4427]

Señora hermosa Su trabajo es maravilloso e impresiona a mi y muchos COSTARRICENSES PEERO HABLAM9S ESPAÑOL PODDRAS PORFAVOR PONER SUBTÍTULOS EN ESPAÑOL MUY AGRADECIDOS

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I wish I could add translations, but it costs money and I can't afford it. Sorry!

[@itcamefromthe90s89]

What if you use water-based urethane?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I don't know - I don't use this outside any more. Did you see the waterproof gnome I made? kzbin.info/www/bejne/narUpHWiZ891p6s

[@jokemartien]

The Basset hound is really coming along it looks great.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks - I'm glad you like him.

[@dmytrandr]

Acrylic paints are water soluble, but when they dry out they become waterproof. There're also a lof of glues that work that way too and become D3-D4 water resistant after drying out. Why don't you try that modern chemistry?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Mostly because I prefer to make outdoor sculptures with materials that are already waterproof, like epoxy clay. If you do some experiments, be sure to let us know if you come up with a new recipe that can be left outside.

[@dmytrandr]

​@@UltimatePaperMache I've actually already tried epoxy resin with wood flour and microcrystalline cellulose. Although, it's not paper clay per se. Wood flour can be replaced with thin paper. The mixture becomes pretty strong and waterproof when hardens, but it's hard to work with. And I'm very allergic to epoxy resin :(

[@elizdonovan5650]

Your animals are delightful. What talent you have. Thank you for sharing your skill and knowledge. ☘️🌝🌲

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks!

[@konlecon]

You're amazing ! Thank you for an informative video !

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome. I'm glad you like it.

[@blanquis84gemenis]

Maravillosos sus trabajos😍 compré barniz marino, lo use en una casita de hadas y la doné al kinder, la pusieron en un pequeño jardín y de varias lluvias, aun se ve bien😏☺

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I'm glad it worked.

[@shawnafraker8663]

Only way I have been able to keep my items protected from weather is UV resin, however it's very expensive.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Yes, it is. That's one reason that I use epoxy clay or cement, instead. With the cost of the resin or other waterproofing material you can start out with something that's waterproof to begin with.