How to Make Paper Clay to Correct Cracks in a Sculpture

Pap clay is a mixture made from regular clay, water, and paper. It is an economical choice for artists because it stretches the clay you are already working with by as much as four times. Paper clay is similar to regular clay in that it can be be glazed, fired, and sculpted using the same techniques as regular clay. Its advantages are that it is lighter, resists warping and bunching upon its own weight. It can be made from recycled materials, as well, reducing the artist's environmental impact. It's the perfect medium to correct cracks in a sculpture.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• paper
• clay
• bucket
• hot water
• drill with paint stirring attachment
• plastic bags

1. Fill a 5 gallon bucket to the half-way point with shredded paper. If you do not have shredded paper, you can use 4 rolls of toilet paper, including the rolls.

2. Pour warm water into the bucket until the water reaches the halfway point of the bucket. Let the water and paper stand until all of the paper is very soft.

3. Use a drill with a paint stirring attachment to mix the paper and water into a slurry with a yogurt-like consistency. Add more water if you need to.

4. Add small chunks of clay, a few ounces at a time, and mix with the drill until the clay is completely mixed. You are looking for a consistency a little thinner than regular clay. Add and mix more clay until you have the right consistency.

5. Pour the clay out of the bucket and on to a table. The clay will dry out slightly, which is why it is a little wetter than regular clay. Reserve the amount of clay you need to repair the crack in your sculpture and store the rest as you would store regular clay.

6. Smooth the paper clay over the crack in your sculpture and fire. Paper clay generally fired to a cone 6. You can also let the clay air dry on larger sculptures and coat with a painted finish that will mimic your sculpture's finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Paper clay molds when stored too long. Use it quickly and store it in a cool, dark place when not in use to avoid mold.

Resources

• Paper Clay Workshop