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I do love paper mache but has anyone got any tips on making the stuff dry faster?
I usually just let my projects air dry but because I have a tendency to use lots of layers (that I do all in one go) so they obviously take some time to dry this way. In the summer its not to bad if its a really hot day they dry out within the afternoon but in the winter it can take up to a week or so. Aside from baking the things has anyone got any tips?
Much appreciated.
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using a fan to get the air circulating works
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Placing smaller pieces in the microwave works wonders. Put them on a lower power level.... You know how a bun will dry out and be rock hard when its nuked? Same thing.
Not good for pieces with metal framework.
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Placing smaller pieces in the microwave works wonders. Put them on a lower power level.... You know how a bun will dry out and be rock hard when its nuked? Same thing.
Not good for pieces with metal framework.
Haha, didn't think of that. Must try that one!
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splashdog: I never thought of the microwave. I have let pieces dry in the oven though. I really will have to try out your microwave idea next time though. It really is a great idea.
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The most important thing is to keep your paste as dry as possible - just enough to smear thinly over the paper. Make your mix at least as thick as double cream.
Next, not to many layers at once. Best to do up to three at a time and let them dry. You'll find that in the sun or over a radiator, or in the oven as it cools after cooking will achieve hard dry very quickly.
DavidO 
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Re: using the microwave to dry smaller pieces. What about if you have a plastic armature? Have you ever tried that?~Tammy
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That is good question tammywilson. I would have to guess it would depend on what type of plastic it is because I know some types of plastic are microwavable and others aren't.
Have you tried this at all yet?
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No because I am a mother hen about my pieces and rarely take chances on ruining them. Anyway, I l ive in a really hot place so drying times are not a problem.
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