Is Paper Mache Clay Waterproof?

Is paper mache clay waterproof? This is the most common question I receive - sometimes as often as two or three times a day. And I've been asked that question ever since I posted my paper mache clay recipe on YouTube ten years ago.

So I finally decided to do a video just to answer this question. I've done a lot of experiments in waterproofing pape rmache clay, and you can see them on my channel. I won't link to them, though, because none of my experiments worked.

However, there are probably more items made with paper mache clay to be used outside than inside, because we need inexpensive materials when we want a temporary sculpture. Masks, Halloween yard art, parade floats - all made with paper mache.

In this video I discuss how that can work, even though the PM clay itself is not waterproof. And I'll also tell you about a variation of the original recipe that makes the clay waterproof without the need for varnish or Flex Seal to protect it.

Links to videos and pages mentioned in the video:

The original paper mache clay recipe: https://youtu.be/1YQ6eUqcEh8

Linda's giant mushroom: https://www.ultimatepapermache.com/make-a-waterproof-paper-mache-mushroom

Warren's waterproof paper mache clay recipe (consider it experimental): https://www.ultimatepapermache.com/giant-pots-made-with-new-cementpaper-mache-clay-mixture

Do you have a fool-proof way to protect paper mache clay and make it waterproof? Let us know in the comments below.

#ultimatepapermache #jonnigood #ghoulishcop