It has been so much fun rediscovering papier mache this year! I have been searching for and trying out a number of waterproof papier mache recipes for a long time, and finally found Jonni Good’s Ultimate Paper Mache website: https://www.ultimatepapermache.com/

What an amazing artist she is! Not only extremely talented and creative but also generously sharing her recipes and techniques with visitors to her site. I hope you can take as much inspiration and enjoyment from seeing her work, and zest for experimenting and the sharing of knowledge, as I have done. Thank you Jonni!

Having made a lot of papier mache over the years, I have always enjoyed using it for indoor projects. These projects have steadily become more sculptural, and I have relished my own experiments in mixing the paper with other materials (with mixed results!).

While experimenting is wonderful for creative playtimes and trying out new techniques, it can be frustrating when you have a particular aim in mind and things don’t go to plan. I have long wanted to make garden sculptures from papier mache, partly because I find it a really enjoyable medium, and partly because I find it really satisfying to recycle all kinds of paper and junk mail in this way. However, numerous waterproof varnishes and other products later, I had still not found a long-term solution to this challenge.

Enter Jonni and her Paper Cement Clay. Though it is still a relatively new recipe, it appears to be holding up to weather trials and certainly lasts outside for a lot longer than any of my previous attempts!

To test the recipe I made a pheasant model, using armature wire, bubble wrap and masking tape. I coated this in Paper Cement Clay, and after it had cured I painted on sealant and then a variety of exterior paints from Frenchic. My goal was to make it look as though it had been cast in bronze and I am delighted with the result.

Since installation it has weathered some minor frosts, strong rains and strong sunshine. Long may it last!

Meanwhile, our Art Club Sculpture Course throughout May worked through a variety of papier mache methods to create a colourful and characterful selection of creatures for house and garden. Here are some of the results:

It has been so much fun to play with papier mache and sculpture again, and I would love to hear from you if you would like to have a go too. If you are interested in future sculpture courses please do get in touch via info@sargiesmess.co.uk