I‘m currently making a mask out of paper mache using only starch. At first I used flour and starch as this was the recipe on the back of the container (Sta-Flo) for the very first layer. I didn‘t like it so I simply used only starch and it worked very well. Anyways it‘s layered up and I need some sort of sealer to keep it hard. I was told to use resin though I‘ve never used it for anything. Epoxy came to mind; just drench it and let it harden. I don‘t want my mask to be glossy at all so I‘d probably paint last. I‘ve also read that people have used marine varnish to seal paper mache so it‘d be waterproof.The plan I had at first was to do the paper mache, paint with acrylic paint then use an acrylic sealer.I kind of don‘t want to spend too much as this mask is simply made out of paper though it‘s taken many hours to form so if possible, can someone tell me what kind of paint and sealer to use to make this mask hard and safe to use outside?
Yes, I've used glue and water to make papier mache. However, you have to make sure there's enough glue in it, because otherwise your paper will peel- but not too much, or your paper might rip under the weight. From the sources I've seen, flour and water seem to be the best. If you are going to do glue, go 1-1 on the glue and water. I looked online, and it seems many people have different methods. I personally have used glue and water to make statuaries for a school play, so I know it can work. Just make sure you glaze over the final product at least once or twice for a smooth finish.
