Uploaded July 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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🥣 Which is better - raw paper mache paste, or the cooked version?

In the past I always used the raw paste, but over the years I switched and started using the cooked version all the time, instead. But why? (OK, I still can't remember exactly why I switched, but it was still a fun experiment. 😊)

To find out what the real differences are, I used them both on different projects that I'm currently working on. I used the cooked flour and water paste recipe for the cat mask, and I used the raw flour and water paste for the shark mask. Then I put both of them in front of a fan and let them dry.

My conclusion: neither one is really "best" for every project. They both stick the paper onto the mask or armature just fine.

The biggest difference is that the cooked paste dries clear, and the raw paste doesn't.

If you need the paper to show through on your final project, you should use the cooked paste. But if you want a fast paste, and your final project is going to be painted, go ahead and use the raw version. The raw paste does have a slight texture, so that's another thing to consider.

I'll put both recipes on this page so you can see how they're made: ultimatepapermache.com/paste

Do you have a favorite paste recipe that you use all the time? If you do, why do you think it's best? Let us know in the comments below. 😊

I'll post the shark and cat patterns as soon as they're done. In the meantime, you can see the patterns for all the critters behind me in the video here: ultimatepapermache.com/patterns

And you can find many more recipes for paste and paper mache clay here: ultimatepapermache.com/recipes