Paper Mache

[reptilez]

I see some poeple with rocks and hides made of paper mache. My question is, Is there a specail way to make paper mache so that it doesnt bother your herps? Or does any old way work?
-Reptilez
P.S. Does antyone know of any sites that shows you how to make paper mache?

[Zoe]

Mix flour and water together until you get a thick paste

Zoe

[Wuntu Menny]

The problem with that original recipe is that it is immediately attacked by molds and bacteria. If any moisture is present, the whole creation will be reduced to a stinking, moldy mass in a short time.

I've never seen cages with mache features, but they must be made of some synthetic substitute for the flour. There are several products that may work in this case. I'd suggest contacting your local craft supplier and looking for a nontoxic synthetic mache adhesive. While you're at it, you may want to find some type of water proof coating for your work to seal it up tight.

WM

[reptilez]

I found this recipe...http://www.katehodgson.net/pmcpaste.html
If you read the paragraph under the pic of the bowl with the spoon on the surface, it says,
" While stirring, add a few drops of wintergreen if desired. Wintergreen retards mould and helps give your paste a fresh smell. It is poisonous, even though it smells like breath mints - so caution should be used if working with young children. One paper maché enthusiast who e-mailed, Patricia suggests a couple of tablespoons of salt and a bit of bleach. Her work has remained mould free for 15 years. "

Do u think that any of those chemicals would be poisones after maybe 36-48 hours?
-Reptilez

[Darlene]

The bleach & salt would be okay if it was well sealed after total drying. The best sealants are the non-toxic sprays used on ceramics meant for the outdoors. They come in glossy, semi-gloss & matte forms & most craft suppliers or ceramic dealers have them readily available. Some types are toxic until they dry (spray in ventilated area or outdoors) & others are super safe for kids to use. The former are around $6 per can here & work great. Best of luck with your project.

[Lisa]

bleach dissapates after a period of time. best to let it dry through.