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Which is better – raw paper mache paste, or cooked paste?
I’ve been looking over some of my older posts, and noticed that in the past I always used the raw paste when making paper mache. But over the years I switched and started using the cooked paste version, instead. But why?
(OK, I still can’t remember exactly why I switched, but it was still a fun experiment.)
To find out what the real differences are, I used them both on different projects that I’m currently working on. I used the cooked flour and water paste recipe for the cat mask, and I used the raw flour and water paste for the shark mask. Then I put both of them in front of a fan and let them dry.
My conclusion: neither one is really “best” for every project. They both stick the paper onto the mask or armature just fine. The biggest difference is that the cooked paste dries clear, and the raw paste doesn’t. If you need the paper to show through on your final project, you should use the cooked paste. But if you want a fast paste, and your final project is going to be painted, go ahead and use the raw version. The raw paste does have a slight texture, so that’s another thing to consider.
Raw Flour and Water Paste
This one is really easy. All you need are:
- Flour
- Hot Water from the Tap
Cooked Flour and Water Paste
This one is slightly more complicated. The ingredients are:
- One cup of cold water
- Two tablespoons of white flour
Do you have a favorite paste recipe? Let us know in the comments below. 🙂
Really good article, thanks !
You’re welcome. 🙂
I have always used laundry starch as the paste. The comments about bugs and mold inspired me to see if laundry starch has the same problem. According to my search engine’s results, yes laundry starch would have problems with insects, mold or mildew. I’d never thought about what the “starch” is from: plants, corn wheat, potato, etc. I’m brand new to your site Jonni, and am thorough enamored with it. Thank you so much for posting details of all your hard work.
Hi Tom. I’m glad you’re enjoying the site. 🙂
Hi Jonni, while watching your video, I had a thought as to whether the cooked flour and water paste would work in your ultimate paper mache clay recipe in place of the pvc glue. I’m going to try it next.
We have a new paper mache clay recipe that does use paste, but it has a few additional ingredients. It’s now my favorite recipe. You can find it here.
I use purchased Elmer’s glue and water. For a really strong bond, I use 1/3 Elmer’s, 1/3 wood glue and 1/3 water. But of course if you’re using Jonni’s paper clay recipe, you don’t have to worry about that.
I am trying to make a paper mache snake. I wish you had a pattern, but I could not find one. My question is…will paper mache stick to the masking tape I used when constructing the base? Some posts have said I should use a stronger glue to make sure it sticks. Do you have any suggestions for me? I absolutely love your work!!!
Hi Rhonda. I’ve used paper mache with flour and water paste over masking tape for years. The tape will be wrapping the snake, I assume, so it will stick to itself, too. You shouldn’t have any problem with it. You’re right – I don’t have a pattern for a snake. Have fun with it. 🙂
Hi Jonni, you could put in a drop o clove oil to help prevent mould. I suppose a drop of bleach would also do it but I’ve only heard of clove oil. Maybe an experiment with the raw paste in a warmer climate would be useful to see if it keeps the bugs away.
An experiment would be a great idea. If anyone tries it, please let us know.
Use table salt in the mix to prevent mold.
Hello Jonni. Although it is easier and faster, the uncooked mixture will get bugs in warm climates, like where I live (Puerto Rico). A lot of bugs! I made a few things with the uncooked method only to have to throw them away after so much work. I felt so disappointed to have to throw away my Frida Kahlo doll. It had come out so nice!
I’m sorry about your doll – that is sad, but I hope you made a new one. We’re lucky up here in Minnesota – that particular kind of bug must not like our long cold winters. Do your bugs completely leave the cooked paste alone? I wonder why they care if it’s cooked or not?
Hi I guess the heat kills the larvae in the flour. My town is famous for the paper mache scary vegigante masks and they are made with the cooked version. I am working with the glue and water method now.