Weatherproof Paper Mache Clay for Outdoor Sculptures - an Experiment

I have two new experimental recipes for weatherproof paper mache clay, inspired by the giant outdoor pots made by Warren Eggleton back in 2013. I changed his recipe a little, to make sure it would come out exactly the same every time, but it's essentially the usual paper mache clay recipe with Portland cement added to it.
The videos I made when experimenting with the new paper cement clay:
A leaf casting: • Leaf Casting Made With...
Starting a toad sculpture: • Garden Toad Made with ...
The finished toad, painted and sealed: • Painting The Paper Cem...
Updates on how well the toad is doing:
• Update for Paper Cemen...
• Paper Cement Clay Upda...
Be sure to read Warren's post to see how his pots were made and how he sealed them: www.ultimatepapermache.com/pots
For text versions of both recipe, visit this page: www.ultimatepapermache.com/we...
I made two recipes, one that contains the drywall joint compound, and one that doesn't. I tested them both by allowing small sculptures to cure for about a week, and then put them in a bowl of water for a day or two. They didn't soften at all after all that time in the water, but they did get wet. These are not waterproof paper mache clay - but it doesn't look like water will damage the finished sculptures. We still have to seal them, though, because they will get damaged if they get wet and then go through several cycles of freezing and thawing.
I also tested the recipes to see how long we could continue sculpting with the mixtures before they got hard in the bowl, and I had more than three hours of work time in my house at 76° F (24.4 C with both recipes. Warren tells us that we'll have less time to play with it in hotter weather.
I bought my 46 lb bag of Portland cement at my local Lowes. Most DIY stores should carry it. I got the normal grey variety. There is white cement, too, but there wasn't any available locally.
If you try either of the recipes, please come back and let us know how they turned out. If you'd like to show them off or tell us more about them, you can post images of your projects here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/da...
You can find patterns for the masks and sculptures behind me in the video here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/pa...
The sculpting books I've written, available on amazon.com:
Fast Faces - Unleash Your Creativity: amzn.to/2DSNXfG
Make Animal Sculptures: amzn.to/1nMUO3a
How to Make Masks: amzn.to/2obUDmq
Make Tiny Paper Mache Dogs: amzn.to/1KXd9zg
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:23 Warren's Giant Pots - the inspiration for this experiment
1:20 Detail possible with new weatherproof paper mache clay
2:41 Problem when I tried Warren's recipe
3:04 My successful test of Warren's recipe
4:30 Why I simplified the recipe
4:47 Why I created two different recipes for weatherproof paper mache clay
5:40 Test pieces for both recipes, after letting them soak in water
6:16 Recipe 1: Weatherproof paper mache clay with drywall joint compound
8:20 Testing the mix to see how long it would stay workable
9:45 Recipe 2: Weatherproof paper mache clay without drywall joint compound
10:34 The different texture between the two recipes
11:34 Why we need more experiments in different climates
12:32 Things to remember when experimenting with the recipes:
12:38 Seal your sculptures before putting them outside
13:37 Why it takes longer for these sculptures to dry
14:17 Why the inside of the sculpture should also be weatherproof
14:57 Why you should never wash your bowl or utensils in the sink
15:52 Summary and my plans for making an outdoor sculpture

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊 See all my patterns for paper mache masks and sculptures here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/patterns

[@jbartsy1]

By soaking the little face in the water for three days, you've made your face stronger than before you soaked it. The water has a chemical reaction with cement which is what hardens it. It takes about 100 years for the cement to cure completely and is the only building material that gets harder over time and it's due to it getting wet and then drying. When I sculpt during the drying process I cover it for the first 12 hours and then let it dry for about 8 hours, then I emerge the whole sculpture in water for a day. Then I let it dry for 3 or 4 days, out of the sun. I only use foil, 9 gage wire and chicken wire for armature, I also use perlite at a 1:1 ratio to the cement, I've also used peat moss 1:1:1 with cement and perlite, that recipe is called Hypertufa, if you plan on making large sculpt this recipe makes a lighter weight cement sculpt.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Interesting info! I wonder if using the PVA glue (Polyvinyl acetate) has any effect on the curing time? Also, one of the commenters asked if it's possible to add new cement-based paper mache clay over an old one. With the glue in the mix, do you think it would take the place of a concrete bonding adhesive? I'm going to try it without the bonding liquid, but if you have any ideas about that, please let us know.

[@jbartsy1]

@@UltimatePaperMache , you can add new wet mache cement to an already hardened project. However, you need to keep your project covered in plastic, so it stays slightly damp; where ever you apply the new wet mache cement, you have to saturate the project area you are adding to because your hardened project will suck the moisture right out of the fresh damp mache cement and the lack of water will prevent the new parts not to cure properly. When working with cement the water and cements chemical reaction is what hardens it, as far as a bonding agent I use one it's cheap and you really just need a little. What is ultimately going to bond new with old is the moister in the joining parts... I hope this makes sense?

[@waynestamand2738]

You need a bonding agent between the old and the new. If you don’t, it will fall apart. Pva glue is a good bonding agent. You can add to cement as long as you haven’t sealed it yet. You wet the cement with water making sure it is wet. Add your bonding agent and add you new layer. Cement takes 30 days to dry. If you have it dry too fast, it will not hold up. Cover it with a plastic bag and keep it out of the sun. The next day, look at whatever you are working on and it should be soft enough to fix some of the spots you would like to fix. It should be dry after at least two weeks. Three is better. After you paint your project, make sure your project is dried well. One way to find out is smell the paint. If it smells, it’s not dry enough and you will have problems after you seal it. If you’re putting your project outside, make sure your sealer has a uv inhibitor in it, outer wise it will change color. Pva glue will take a little longer to dry.

[@jbartsy1]

@@waynestamand2738 I'm a sculptor. I don't use a bonding agent between cement applications. While I'm working on a sculpt after it hardens, I keep it in a tub of water until I'm finished the sculpture; I cover and let it set for a few days, then I put it into the tub of water for three to six days depending on the thickness. There is a chemical reaction between cement and water. It takes a hundred years for a cement structure to cure completely; cement is the only building material that becomes harder over time from getting wet. The more water introduced to the item, the harder it will become. I don't paint or seal my sculptures unless I've added another component like wood or something that would need sealing if kept outdoors. The only time I use a bonding agent is when I create orbs; the only reason my first layer is a porous fabric, so I put a bonding agent in the mixture I use to soak the fabric and in the next layer to thicken the walls of the orb. I live in Southern Ontario, Canada, and we have pretty bad weather in the winter; it can get as cold as -40° with the windchill, inches to numerous feet of snow, and significant ice and wind storms; I haven't had any complaints, and none of the things that have been out for years have degraded or fallen apart. I don't use paper or any fibre; I have used peat moss as an aggregate, but I mostly use sand or perlite. But that's just how I do things!

[@itsklee]

Do you think a sculpture made out of this would stand well in a bathroom? Also how heavy is it when dried?

[@stacyrosa6672]

OMG! Lady, where have you been all my life? Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and you just made my Gratitude List. I'm very excited to try some of your recipes and projects. I have suffered from depression, mostly in the Northern Michigan winter, because I can't get into my garden. I'm looking for ways to nurture my creative spirit indoors, and I feel like I just hit the jackpot!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I think there's nothing better than an art project to keep up your spirits. Have fun!

[@H4me7215]

Hi i am reading the comments. I would like to try this out. WHAT have you made, just curious to see n know, as i am a beginner at this. Thanks.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

@@H4me7215 I haven't made much with it yet, because it's still experimental. However, I did make a toad, and he's been outside in Minnesota all winter, and still doing fine. You can see it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fojUkJR-ash4a8U

[@Tinyteacher1111]

It’s October of ‘23, and I was thinking the same thing! What a personality! I’m excited to watch this stuff, even if I don’t try it. I’m so puny, at 4’ 9”, and 68 with a broken arm, but I can watch! Oh! I have drywall compound in the garage! I hope it’s not Dapp! 🩷

[@Tinyteacher1111]

Oh! I’m in Michigan, too! If I lived up north, instead of Rochester, I’d be so excited!

[@Just2comment-ur8uu]

I happened across this vid as I was searching concrete stuff and yes 100 percent it works as waterproofing adding cement to paper-mache mix I've tried this years ago, the only cons is it hardens quickly as it has the cement but it makes an excellent putty like material when the mix is thick enough. It's kind of similar to papercrete.

[@MicheleDamato-co7vh]

Thank you for sharing your personal secrets.... it's very rare that people do this sort of thing... so thank you very much.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome! 😊

[@rodneymiller4437]

Cement mixtures can be reconstituted for 4 hours after the time the water is first added. After 4 hours the chemical bonding process has run its course. If your mix starts to set in higher temps, just add a splash of glue/water and mix again. Remixing the mud after it has begun to set will help integrate any remaining bits of dry portland. Which will make it more durable. Masons commonly do this with mortar mix before laying the first brick. If you need to add another layer, score the surface of the workpeice or drill holes to create a mechanical bond. Saturate the workpeice with water, then paint on a thin layer of glue. Before the glue dries, paint on a layer of glue/water/portland slurry (potters call it "slip"). Be sure to penetrate into the scoring, pushing out all the little air pockets. Next, proceed by massaging the sculpting mache (or whathaveyou) into the slurry-coated scoring and then adding the next layer being mindful to make full contact , not trapping in any air between layers. Keep it all damp, under a tent with water, for half a week after you finish.

[@stephanygates6491]

Which glue are you referring to? Oh, I see it's Elmer's white glue. I wonder how silicone or resin would affect the final ability to resist water?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Adding a sealer is probably the best way to make it waterproof. But there might be products you can add to the mix that would help - but I don't know what they would be.

[@sharonyoxall7553]

This video & comments are so generous🙂 Feeling a bit inspired!🥰

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@90125scott]

I've done something very similar (in Michigan) for an outdoor duck pond. I used towels instead of toilet paper. It sits in the ground and has lived year round for 3 years. It is still leak free. I love this! I call it extreme paper mache! ✌️

[@DarleneOwens-fv2el]

I made a cat sculpture of paper mache(newspaper recipe) in 1976. It has survived outside in Georgia and still looks great. I must have shellacked it well!

[@seachangeau]

Omg is there an instagram where you can all share your project links from?

[@seachangeau]

So there goes my mixer - the hardest part is giving up pavlova huh😂

[@dnicolas90]

You are such an incredible and joyfull teacher! thankyou so much!

[@tadeyishu]

I'm sure someone will of already mentioned this, but I'm going to add my two pence worth, if you keep stirring the mixed clay it will be useable for longer, like the cement trucks with the rotating barrel. There are also many different additives, from waterproofing as for swimming pools and ponds, frost resistant's for rendering, foundations and mortars, colours and fiberglass for strengthening, then there are weather sealants' to cope with sea salt right through heat resistance, all of these will of make the project more and more expensive, but could save a lot of disappointment in the future.....also if you can wrap the finished piece in plastic trapping the moisture in for four or five days, then let it dry it will extend the curing time, making it more robust, this won't work with quick drying cret.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks for the tips! I am following your idea for wrapping a piece in plastic. It firmed up but is still very wet 24 hours later. I'll keep letting it cure for a few more days. 😊

[@MothStone]

great advice! what would you use for frost resistant? any recommendations?

[@tadeyishu]

@@MothStone Here in the UK we can get frost proofing additive, however if its waterproof then there should be no moister in the sculpture to expand when freezing.....

[@earthenscience]

PSA: Portland cement is somewhat unsafe. Do not touch this.

[@H4me7215]

Great advice!

[@MissChelle]

I would seal it with pond sealer. Readily available and I have a friend in China who has outdoor ponds going through freezing winters with water in them (freezing top half of water). Going good as far as I know. Also terracotta or cement sealer. Both are used for outdoor construction so would prob work. I’m in Australia & going to visit warrens info right now. Glad I found you. Looking forward to seeing your sculpture. New sub from Australia 🇦🇺❤️

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Good tips - thanks! 😊

[@rosaelinav8036]

Wow I see your sample of this product with cement…and thank you also, for letting us know how to take care the tools we use and not dump anything in our sink. Thank you an have a beautiful weekend and Happy July 4🇺🇸 too…💖🙋‍♀️💖

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks, Rosaelina. I hope you have a great Fourth of July, too. Have fun! 😊

[@hendrickscopeland640]

Hello, how are you doing?

[@SnarkNSass]

IKR 💯 Safety Rules 💯 😎☮️

[@HoneyBeeBuz]

Thank you for all your research!!! You are so talented ❤️

[@dianemarie9d9]

H i, I'm paper mache artist, also I'm in Minnesota.Was really excited to find this.

[@djjohnson6194]

I've been using Portland cement with paper clay for year's now. My latest sculpture using this media has been outside for two years now. I do seal my sculptures when completed with clear Flex Seal. It works great so far. These deer were outside the first year and developed some minor cracks. That is when I discover Flex Seal....love it for all sorts of outdoor projects. I

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's really good to know! Do you have any online photos of your sculptures? If not, you can share some photos on my website. We'd love to see them. You can do that here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/daily-sculptors-group-page

[@SnarkNSass]

Uh...DJ!🤨 No videos, do you have another channel? I'd love check them out if you have any 😁✌🏻☮️

[@SnarkNSass]

@@UltimatePaperMache cool 😎🌟 I'll click it in a minute 😜☺️

[@rockdog2584]

This looks like a pretty magical concoction to be sculpting outdoor ornamentals out of! I'm gonna have to give this a try! There are a couple of IMPORTANT factors to keep in mind... Now...having a bit of experience of working with cement (concrete, actually)...I have to say that "tadeyishu"s comment (just below me here, as I'm typing this) mentioned that there are a number of additives available (specifically for concrete). Absolutely true. You might have to do some investigative work to find them...but they are out there. Tadeyishu had also mentioned about wrapping your finished piece in plastic or putting it in a plastic bag (if it's small enough) to slow down the curing rate to improve it's strength. This also is very true...AND VERY IMPORTANT! Concrete reaches it's maximum strength if it is kept wet for 21 days. A good way to do this would be to wrap your finished piece in wet towels (either cloth or paper) and THEN wrapping them in plastic (given that you actually WANTED you piece to be at maximum strength). The one thing you absolutely DON'T want to do is to try to SPEED UP the dry-time by putting it in front of a fan or (Heaven forbid) in the oven! The Portland cement NEEDS time to "hydrate" to 'do it's chemical magic'. Too rapid drying will leave the cement 'granular' and unable to bond to it's surrounding materials. As far as sealing it goes, I would suggest a clear spray paint. The Thompson's doesn't last very long, and requires yearly re-coating.

[@mamaj6028]

Great info, thanks ! ❤

[@stevelewis2658]

Thank you for all your creative efforts! I bought your giraffe pattern and turned it into a 6 and half foot giraffe for my grandson's first bday party. It was a huge hit and I received so many compliments. I am sooooooo excited to try the outdoor version of the clay recipe. I have visions of giant butterflies and bees flitting about in my garden! thank you again and again and again!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I would love to see that giraffe! If you'd like to show it off, you can do that here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/daily-sculptors-group-page

[@SnarkNSass]

RockOn ✌🏻😎☮️

[@AikoFox]

That is awesome. Giraffes are my favorite animal next to panthers. Please let me know how your outdoor version fares💜 I would love to give it a go because plants/propagating/gardening/mad scientist botany are my jam! I live in Florida so I'm a little scared of how it would fair having to 'live' outside.

[@MEDINA_LAB]

i am testing paper mache in house constrution ways now and your videos has been amazing explaning everything i needed to know!!! Thank you so much from sao paula brasil

[@amalmourtada7098]

You are my teacher I'm from Lebanon middle East love the way you teaching us I learned from you every thing about mache clay you are amazing person ❤ may gad keep you in a good health

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thank you for the kind thoughts. 😊

[@kelseydalziel3514]

I came over here from Rachel Maksy's glowing review in the demigor-gown video, and I'm SO glad I did!! I don't know why I stopped doing paper mache when I became an adult. I can't wait to get back into it!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

It was so kind of Rachel to mention this channel - welcome! A lot of us grownups have returned to paper mache, and we're having a great time with it. Have fun! 😊

[@zandanforth1326]

Thank you for your time and energy! You are GREAT to watch !

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks! 😊

[@Shuvah2Him]

JONI! I FINALLY went and bought cement and made some of this! It is WONDERFUL! It is SOOOOO smooth and buttery! I just did a rabbit after playing around with it a while... I like the way it works better than the silly smooth paper mache that I have been using! Now I gotta get faster ... I am a detail freak and make photo realistic stuff

[@billiegaspare7112]

Well about this time last year I started playing with this version of the papermache clay. I think I found my medium. I love working with this stuff. Depending on what I'm working on. I change up the formula a bit. Whether it's adding more paper, more glue or cement. Or even the drywall compound but I absolutely love it. This winter will be the first winter. I have something out all you're around. And I'm in Niagara Falls, Canada. I will let you know how it goes This winter. Thank you I love this stuff

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I'm glad you like it! And do remember to let us know how well they hold up in your climate. If you'd like to show off some of your work, you're welcome to do that on the Daily Sculptors page on my site, here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/daily-sculptors-group-page 😊

[@tmontero8492]

Holy cow! Your creations are incredible! Thanks for the info on the portand cement cleanup!

[@5eagans]

Love all the good information and actual research you did working with this substance. I subscribed!

[@imranh5395]

What a brilliant channel! Just what I've been looking for😀 I am hoping to start making outdoor sculpture soon, so your channel will be a very handy forum for me to relate with fellow creatives. Thank you and keep up your excellent work 👍🏻

[@Cyrilmc222004]

Thank you so much Joni , I really really enjoyed listening to your talk about using concrete in papier mache. Very helpful and useful too. Please stay safe and well too xxxx Mags ❤❤❤❤

[@SATURNOCascadia]

I am infinitely grateful for your time and your dedication to making this video and sharing it, I had wanted to make a community of fairy houses in my garden for a long time and all the recipes had failed, when the rain fell they fell apart, Today I am sure that my fairies will finally have their houses without fear of the rain, receive huge blessings.

[@stephhatchett6546]

Ooooo, the Flemish rabbit, please! Thanks for sharing your Art Smarts with us.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I'm definitely making that rabbit - but he probably won't be the first thing I make with this recipe. The bunny I have in mind would take several videos and lots of time, and I should probably do something a little faster first. But the rabbit is going to get made. I just don't know when.

[@tlccreates]

Thank you Joni, for more inspiration. I have some “funky florals” in my yard which have parts made of paper mache clay. I coated them with Drylok before decorating with acrylics and then a couple coats of sealer. They have been doing pretty good out in the snow and rain for over a year. We have a lot of strong sun, high altitude, so that is a nemesis for me. My cement yard art fades and flakes even when sealed. The other day I put my paper mache hippo, Henrietta, outside. She is made by adapting your hippo pattern to make a partially submerged hippo. Her body and lower jaw are made from sculpted foam. I used shop towels and Titebond II as my mache, coated with Drylok, then painted with exterior paint and sealer. She was originally used for stage scenery for a kids program and now lives in my landscaping. I am anxious to see how she weathers. She will at least bring smiles to passers by in the meantime.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's an interesting idea! Let us know how well your hippo holds up. I looked up Drylok just now, and I think I need to get some to help me waterproof my basement walls! Thanks for the tip. 😊

[@SnarkNSass]

@@UltimatePaperMache you have gathered up the absolute best Comment Section 💯🌠

[@MariaAndreiaOliveira-gu3kc]

fantastic work

[@alanm3438]

It is always good to see you. You are always willing to learn something new and share what you have learned. Thanks!!!!!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Doing new things is what makes it fun! 😊

[@shelleynobleart]

Absolutely awesome work, as usual, Jonni! Thank you for your thorough methods and inventive experimentation.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks, Shelley.😊

[@JacquelineHerreraOnGoogle]

I'm so excited about making this!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's great to hear. I can't wait to find out what you think of it after you try it. Keep us posted! 😊

[@hendrickscopeland640]

Hello, how are you doing?

[@wynndehansen7233]

You are awesome, your clay has opened so many new directions for my art. And this recipe is gonna be awesome. Thank you for sharing.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You are so welcome! I checked on my experimental toad yesterday, after the snow melted and I could find him. He's still doing fine, through most of a Minnesota winter. 😊

[@oooops537]

You are such a fabulous teacher. :) ( warm appreciative hug for all you share with us, so we can Live a fun joyful creative experience that warms the eyes up through the heart. Thank you!

[@Gasp7000]

Wonderfully expressed, I feel the same.

[@jneigler]

Love your experiments! Looking forward to your next video. Thanks for sharing.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@greensage395]

A petal-shaped chip like that with a wire embedded into it would be the start of some really awesome outdoor Flower Sculptures! ......with a Wooden Stem, the wires can be attached to form a clustered multi-petal flower...I am thinking of a Rose! :) Thank you for being so Generous to Share!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Did you try it? That sounds like a great project idea. 😊

[@greensage395]

I promise as soon as I do I will post here to let you know! I have had this on my mind for weeks now...I did manage to get my materials together! :)@@UltimatePaperMache

[@inessolano7840]

THANK YOU FOR TEACHING US THE AMAZING IDEA GOD BLESS YOUR HANDS ❤

[@billbucktube]

You might already have found this. I found several portland cement amounts to buy. There are several 5 pound ones and 10 pounders. Some of them are white cement.

[@smellymala3103]

And you are from Minny, wow what a great day to meet someone!

[@arglebargle23fnord]

This is an exciting mixture to try! I'd love to make my own offbeat garden sculptures...

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊 I hope we get to see what you make. You can post photos here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/daily-sculptors-group-page

[@KathyBrooksArt]

Just found your site, this is so interesting. You provided a direct and informative video and demo. Thank you!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Glad it was helpful! 😊

[@staytooned-designs5915]

I am excited about this! Can't wait to try.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@jimcbroyles]

A bonsai pot would be an interesting project.

[@rhifunke6664]

I love watching your videos ! I find myself nodding and agreeing with you sometimes 😂 it’s very easy to vibe with you ! Keep up the great work 💜💜💜

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thank you so much 😊

[@merralynvaillancourt6526]

Yay! Please do a sculpture that has thin and thick areas of cement (Such as ears on a rabbit, wings on a bird) so that you are testing durability of thicknesses as well as the cement based clay. I have been watching videos by a lady in Arizona who follows you as well and she has come up with a very similar recipe. Her KZbin channel is called Venna’s Nature and her stuff is great. Thanks so much for posting this.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I was thinking about making a Flemish Giant Rabbit, and you may have talked me into it. I'll check out that channel - it sounds really interesting! Thanks for letting us know about it. 😊

[@liezelhiggins8441]

I've watched several of Venna's videos and love her channel!

[@SnarkNSass]

I'm writing it down.... Thanks for sharing this ✌🏻😎☮️

[@ACryin_Shame]

I'm so glad you are covering this. I want to do this so badly and have been wishing for you to do this!!

[@ACryin_Shame]

I even have two egg and a baby Dino armature I've been saving to do with cement so I can have them be a indoor pot for some succulents

[@UltimatePaperMache]

If you try it, be sure to let us know how your sculptures did in your weather.

[@jacqulynhilyard1561]

Wow! This is really interesting! The hope of doing some really creative sculptures that can go outside. Something I dream about. I really love the beautiful sculptures you have on display, too. You have such a generous heart and great talent, thank you for sharing this valuable and comprehensive info.Your channel is worth subscribing to, so I just did.❤

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You might also want to check out Lee Bell's post on my site. She has a cement recipe that's she's been using for her amazing abstract art pieces, so it's been well-tested. You can find her post on my site along with the link to her book here: www.ultimatepapermache.com/lee-bell-waterproof-cement-book

[@jacqulynhilyard1561]

Thank you.🙂@@UltimatePaperMache

[@kayoliver8462]

Wow, this is a game changer. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

When you try it, let us know if works well for you! 😊

[@ahmedalhiyari]

Just for your info Jooni because I work in construction projects over 25 years, better than the POC portland ordinary cement is the SRC sulfate resistand cement which lives longer years without getting cracked. I learn from Westox company owner of this Australian company many things about desalination and reasons why surfaces crack 99% of that because of salt.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Interesting - thanks for the tip.

[@maggiesalomonsson2564]

Always enjoy your videos Jonni!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@Gasp7000]

Oh, thank you so much for this video. It is so helpful, seriously helpful.

[@jeannettesosa8449]

¡ BENDICIONES JHONY GRACIAS POR TUS CONSEJOS Y CONOCIMIENTOS. ¡UN ABRAZO DESDE COSTA RICA!

[@lucwyn7704]

This is so awesome. I'm definitely going to try this. I'm what I call an ecological crafter making things out of materials which are for the most part recycled (egg cartons, bottles, etc) and we have a small but abundant garden where lots of things come and grow voluntarily. Like about 100 or so offspring of the one aloë vera that was desperately dry when we bought the house. As a result we need new pots on a regular basis. This would be a marvellous solution.

[@gisellehayes2065]

I can't wait to try this receipt so excited tks I love your videos!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@regtomerlin]

BINGO! This technique is exactly what I need to build my Argentina antique footed flower pot. I’m going to start with Warren’s recipe. Thank you!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Have fun with it - and if it's finished already, did it work the way you hoped it would?

[@zoraidamcnorton1113]

Great video! Thanks for sharing! 😊

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks for watching! 😊

[@katherinegallagher8318]

When we seal cement art we usually spray it with Tremclad lacquer. You need to use any that is higher than a matt finish. It will allow the paint to come off. Also we don't use the laquer on the bottom it can seal in the moisture and bubble the paint. Katherine

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I hadn't heard of that product before - thanks for the tip. I'll check it out.

[@jasminm7491]

K. So. *Don't* seal the cement and THEN paint? Seal after it's painted? Is that right? I'm terrified to mess this up lol.

[@ananananabop]

This is very cool! I really want to make big pots for my plants.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

If you try it, let us know how they turn out. Did you see the update I did, about the sculpture I made with this recipe and left outside all winter? If not, you can see it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYirhIVoo6mneq8

[@Ellapompom]

I'd love to see a hare sculpture! Thank you so much for sharing! I want to try this out 😁

[@maryk9519]

So excited to try this as I had just bought a bag of Portland cement from our local Co-op home center in town. Going to use leftover insulated styrofoam & chicken wire for the armature. West central Alberta, Canada winter can drop -18-40's, with wind chill, lots of snow, frost heaves in early spring. Summer it's rare to reach 34c. Thank You for the post.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's great! Let us know how your sculptures turn out. 😊

[@Amorim951]

Johnny, what a wonderful class. Always providing us with new experiences. Congratulations for your work. I use your dough with some variations in quantity. I'm going to try this new papier-mâché and cement putty. I have good ideas and I also like to experiment. I will test this novelty. Once again, thank you for your generosity in sharing your knowledge.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's great - experiments are fun, aren't they? 😊

[@liezelhiggins8441]

Thank you for all the work you put into giving us such detailed videos. Love your channel and can't wait to see how you use this recipe to sculpt something!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I hope you like it. If you put your sculpture outside, please let us know how it holds up. 😊

[@hendrickscopeland640]

Hi, how are you doing?

[@rashmisaraswat11]

Hi jonny! I would like to know that can i preserve this paper mache cement clay for some days?

[@rickyellima1566]

thank you so much madam, i'm so much interested about making sculpture or anything out of paper mache...I'm here in the Philippines and I'm retiring soon in the military service and this is one I love to explore, i subscribed your channel cause I like your techniques, thank you so much mam..

[@dunjiamedrano5826]

Muchas gracias admiro tu dedicación

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Gracias! 😊

[@MrsShocoTaco]

This is the video I've been looking for, thank you!! I'll be trying this recipe asap!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I hope you let us know how your project turns out. 😊

[@MrsShocoTaco]

@@UltimatePaperMache Will do!😁

[@CanineWild]

What a fun idea! I in no way need another hobby idea, but you got me I think... I'll have to check the update video as my climate would be pretty similar to yours up here in Manitoba. Something about that little pig face in the background has charmed me btw- very cute!

[@ahmedalhiyari]

Hello nice leady , thanks for this new record. I like learning from you.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@SnarkNSass]

Oh heck yeah!! Weather proof!!! Thanks so much!💜💜💜💜

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Experimental, though - did you try it? How is it holding up?

[@SnarkNSass]

@@UltimatePaperMache it's on the list 😉 My Roommate Son would not approve of any more lidded tubs coming into the house 😆😆😆 So, I have to finish a couple of tubs worth of In Progress First.😂😂 🎨🌻🖌️🌌🌈🎭🖍️📜🖊️🖼️🌠 ✌🏻 ☯️😎☮️🍀♾️

[@adelinagarciavarela240]

Thanks a lot for this detail explanation. You are improving every day. At first I was dissappointed because I'm a pastry cook and I need to know PROPORTIONS in any thing I do.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@artcflowers]

Thank you very much.✌♥️

[@libbylueders3069]

That was so fantastic work 😍.I'll be back 🎉❤

[@alexshorey8924]

Turtle! This is so exciting, can’t wait to see what you create!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I still haven't decided. I'm working on my leaking basement this week, so I haven't had time to think about it yet. But soon... 😊

[@HashtagTheKate]

Great info! Ive done a lot of work with concrete (repairs for my old house) and with small batches, for easy cleanup (not sure if this would work for the papier mache blend) is to put a heavy duty garbage bag over my mixing bowl and tuck it underneath and mix in the bag and plastic wrap over my mixing utensils, secured with painters tape so when Im done, I just remover the bag and toss or if I need to come back I can close the bag, while keeping it in the bowl so I can step away for a coffee without it drying out. Great content! Excited to delve into your videos.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's a great idea - thanks! 😊

[@larrywakeman4371]

THIS is what I have been waiting FOR!!!!! Kim P.S.: THANK YOUUUUUUUU!!!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Have fun with it! 😊

[@TheGokkiz]

Love this,can't wait to make some outdoor decors

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Good luck with it. Let us know how your projects turn out! I just finished making a leaf casting with the recipe but it isn't cured enough yet to paint. The new video is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoO2iIKYq9N5nas

[@atelierarenas]

This is amazing! Thank you 😃

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome 😊

[@borg9355]

Here's a tip for people who can only find the 94 lb of cement and can't lift that much to get it home. Also I had to buy this type of cement because I couldn't find any other type in my local stores "94 lbs. Type 1 L Portland Limestone Cement" (this type apparently is considered general type use). So here's the tip: Buy 6 of the 2 lb buckets with lids. Lowe's in my area even have a white bucket that is food grade quality and has a rubber seal in the lid which should help keep the cement from collecting moisture. The 94 lb bag will fit in the 5 buckets right up to the top of each bucket and with a 6 bucket when you run low (one bucket left) you will then again have the other 5 buckets to go get more. This method requires you to take the bag out to the parking lot cut it open and then one can use a scoop to move it from the bag to the buckets. I have to be careful lifting that much weight in total; but using this method to break it up allowed to me to get it home with only a little bit more work. And now I have 5 buckets of cement that weight about 20 lbs each (I weighed them) and should stay dry until I use it all up. Instead of making a new comment I am adding this here and hopefully this helps someone as we experiment with this new medium/mixture. So I am working on a plaque that will be 30 inches by 30 inches with a design on one side and plain on the back. The back is now completely covered with the cement mixture which went over two layers of cardboard glued together, reinforced on the back with .25" thick by 12" long clear plastic dowels glued to the cardboard and then covered in tinfoil. I left parts of the dowels exposed (no tinfoil over those parts) so the cement mixture would make contact with the dowels in case in the future the cardboard and tinfoil should waste away, on the inside, the dowels should continue to help support the concrete. I am going to let it "cure" stay wet for 28 days before working on the front which will have the design. According to info I found online concrete needs 28 days of cure time for every inch of thickness in order to reach maximum strength. This piece already weighs over 2 lbs just with the cardboard and dowels alone so before working on the front I want to make sure the back is as strong as it can be. I had some left over mixture about the size of a hockey puck so I carved a couple of edges into and let it dry out without keeping it wet. After drying out it is as hard a rock and fairly thick and I am going to leave it outside without any kind of sealer and see how it does over time. I made note of the date it was left outside, took a picture, and it will be interesting to see how it holds up in the hot southern U.S. weather. For context in relation to how things hold up outside back on March of 2021 I made a plaque out of wood and used a spray sealer that was made for outdoors and left it outside. A little over 2 years later the plaque had split in two because apparently I did not get enough of the sealer everywhere it needed to go and water got in between the seems of the wood (it was a cheap piece from Lowe's where it was not one whole piece of wood but rather parts glued together) lol.

[@elizabethspringer4349]

Thank you!

[@shohreh7879]

Great 👍.

[@angiebrown588]

I vote Flemish giant!! Also, thank you so much for the info, I hope to try this for my fairy garden!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Thanks Angie. Please let us know how well your fairy garden holds up. 😊

[@ahmedalhiyari]

Just com8ng here after watching the Toad coloring , to see details of paper cement recipe, coming to watch dry timings exactly as I am building Petra Treasure view of 12 columns (6up.6down) & the rock rooms as measured as it is in my country Jordan using your recipe for first time.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I hope it worked well for you.

[@pabloschroeder4519]

hello ! A few days ago I subscribed to your channel. I make sculptures of different breeds of dogs and choose super sculpey polymer clay. Your method of how to create the structure and the different proportions that you teach on your channel helped me a lot. I feel like using papier-mâché.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I'm glad you found the channel. Do you have any online photos of your dog sculptures?

[@pabloschroeder4519]

@@UltimatePaperMache not at this moment because this project of mine is very recent but I would like to publish my work a little later but anyway your channel is very interesting and you learn a lot

[@pabloschroeder4519]

began to have problems with my figures, especially in their proportion, because the structures that I joined in wire looked bad and when I saw your method of drawing and cutting pieces separately, that's when I began to apply your method

[@lindie84]

Thank you x1000!!! Oh I’m definitely gonna try it! I’m in South Africa, never heard about Portland cement but going to do some research.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

That's great! Let us know how your sculptures turn out!

[@PlayingwithAIArtFun]

So glad I found you. I am gonna make some Tombstones doing this for Halloween Thank You so much

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Have fun! 😊

[@abtavarez]

you are amazing!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@anyamowll7277]

Have you thought of putting experimental pieces after soaking into the freezer to imitate winter?

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I did think about it, but my freezer is tiny. Besides, it's more fun to make a real sculpture and stick it outside, although the freezer would be more practical. If you try it, let us know what happens! 😊

[@blacklilystudio-leebell146]

Hi Jonni - This is similar to what I am making the very big birds out of as well . I am adding some extra strength with nylon mesh and polymer bonding agent . Also sealing with paver sealant

[@UltimatePaperMache]

The mesh is a great idea, Lee. Do you use PVA glue in your mix, in addition to the polymer bonding agent? I hope everyone has seen your sculptures, because they're beautiful - I've never seen anything like them before.

[@sacrebleu1371]

I have a friend who does big projects and she uses chicken wire in her framing. It makes the pieces very strong.

[@rachaelmeares2311]

Wow this is amazing! My brain is buzzing with ideas, can't wait to experiment. How heavy is that object? I am thinking of a larger piece, maybe 4x4, using galvanized fencing & aluminum foil to build a sun wall hanger. Thank you, Rachael.

[@maggiesalomonsson2564]

Garden gnome!!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I made one of those, and he's been outside for three years now. I used different materials, though. You can see him here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rom2pIWlap5-rdE

[@tonieritchie4799]

this is exactly what I have been looking for, wanting to make a giant dino egg for grandson to set in for bedroom and wanted stronger than normal thank you!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Let us know how it turns out. You might need additional support, and not just the egg shell alone. I wonder if it would help if you used plaster cloth, for the reinforcement of the fibers, as an inner layer on your egg? Like I did when I made my Humpty Dumpty over a balloon? kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6bEhoqha8-UkK8

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

@@UltimatePaperMache couldn't you just use bandage cloth without the plaster, with your mix? Plaster is not the strongest material. Cement, etc, you are using are much stronger; so it seems you could lather a cloth up with a mix like that.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

@@cchemmes-seeseeart3948 In this particular project that Tonie's working on, it would be possible to put a layer of paper mache clay of some kind on a form, then put some gauze or mesh over it, and then add a second layer. It's a whole lot easier to make the first layer with plaster cloth, which acts as a solid base for the paper mache that goes over it. Paper mache clay over plaster cloth creates a very strong material - but that doesn't mean it's the only way to do it. :)

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

@@UltimatePaperMache Thanks for the info. Much appreciated.

[@tonieritchie4799]

Thank you all for the advice

[@rewind9536]

This is great. I need a really hard papier mache for a horn speaker.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Interesting - let us know how it works out.

[@pabloschroeder4519]

Super sculpey clay is very expensive in my home country since I buy it online Now I'm using Sergeant Art clay but I'm going to try using papier-mâché, watching your work and following your channel I learn more about it

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I hope you enjoy it. I love Super Sculpey, but I can't afford it, either.

[@corinnaakin2651]

Oh my that's just awesome information thanks for sharing I can understand how you wouldn't want to have a 100lb bag lol so glad u tried this

[@UltimatePaperMache]

I'm glad they actually make smaller bags. I wonder if they're finally figuring out that women like to make things, too. 😊

[@joanbennettnyc]

Great video as always, Jonni. When you experiment, could you try adding cement pigments to yours and see how it turns out? I've gotten some great earth tones but you always do better. Also, any suggestions on how to clean your tools if you live in an apartment and don't have a hose or backyard? Kudos on such good work and always making it fun.Thank you.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

The cement pigments should work - our local store doesn't have many choices of colors, though. Warren said he tried using paint instead of the glue, but he didn't think it worked as well. For cleaning the bowl and tools, you could fill the bowl with water inside, clean everything in the bowl, and then take the water out to the curb and dump it. Would that work?

[@tlccreates]

I do not have any place to dump stuff in my yard. When working with plaster or cement products, I use a designated large plastic bowl to be my “sink”. Plaster etc is wiped off the tools as best as possible with paper towels before putting in my “sink”. When done cleaning, the sink is dumped into a plastic bag lined bucket and set aside to evaporate before disposing of. The “sink” is wiped out with paper towels and saved for use as the next project’s “sink”. This works for my dry climate.

[@joanbennettnyc]

@@UltimatePaperMache all that sounds good, thanks. I also saw a suggestion that uncured cement loses its cohesion in plain white vinegar. I'll try that as well as the suggestion below. Thanks

[@joanbennettnyc]

@@tlccreates Great plan! Thank you!

[@rocioguevaraobando9075]

Gracias. Thanks. Merci. 😊🙏💚

[@UltimatePaperMache]

You're welcome 😊

[@Ludifant]

Like the post says, I'd seal with waterglass, this is most commonly used for cement and vastly superior to any other sealer, not to mention cheaper :) On the ratio: I think you can easily go to a 1:1 ratio concrete to paper and it will still be fine. That's a lot cheaper :) Which is handy for big projects.. I have even heard of people using 1:10 ratio, so 1 cup of cement with 10 cups of paper! I wouldn't try that for real big things that need to be very sturdy, but it turns out, the result is still fireproof. Although I did an experiment and found it smoulders quite a bit, so I'd call it fire-retardent and I am going to try some boric acid in there. But indeed.. no flame. Which is great if you work on indoor big sculptures for walls and stuff.

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Interesting tips - thanks! 😊

[@adelinagarciavarela240]

I'm watching you from the Canary islands indeed!!

[@UltimatePaperMache]

😊

[@jobes4525]

I'll try it in the UK. The biggest test of all. Always can guarantee Wet Weather here 😂 TY 😊

[@UltimatePaperMache]

Good luck with it - I hope it works for you. It seems to work for most people, but every environment is different. Let us know how it holds up!