Different Papers, Different Results
I've tested different types of paper to see how they behave as paper mâché clay — and they definitely don't all behave the same way.
Even when the general process is similar, the paper itself can change the texture, fiber feel, and character of the finished material.
Egg Cartons
In my testing, egg carton pulp creates a noticeably fibrous and organic material. The fibers remain more visible, giving the surface a natural, handmade character.
I particularly like this type of material for sculptural work and pieces where texture is part of the design.
Paper Bags
Paper bag pulp creates a more rustic, fibrous surface with an earthy character.
It sits somewhere between a highly refined material and a very coarse one, making it useful for pieces where you want texture without an extremely rough surface.
Cardboard
Cardboard produces a more pronounced fiber structure and a rougher surface.
In my testing, it works especially well when I want the material itself to contribute to a more organic or substantial surface character.
Finer Papers
Finer papers can break down into a smoother material, making them useful when you want cleaner surfaces or more refined details.
Toilet paper, for example, is widely used in paper mâché clay because its fibers break down easily when wet.
But smoother doesn't automatically mean better. It simply gives you a different starting point.
So Which Paper Is Best?
None of them.
It depends on what you're making.
For detailed work and smoother finishes, I often prefer finer fibers. For larger, more organic pieces, I enjoy working with rougher fibers.
The same basic process can produce completely different surfaces depending on the paper you start with.
Want the Recipes Matched to Different Papers?
Choosing the paper is only the first step. Different papers absorb and hold moisture differently, so the same formula won't necessarily behave the same way with every type of paper.
My Studio Mary Recipe includes the formulas I've developed and tested for different papers, with the measurements and guidance I currently use in my studio.