I recently did some habitat work and need some help.
I used real dirt and mixed it with wallpaper paste to cover the bottom of my bases. As it has dried the dirt is cracking and mold is starting to grow. Can anyone tell me what I did wrong and if I can fix the problem without having to redo my bases. Thanks for any help.
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allways used elmers white glue mixed with dirt and add dry dirt to the top with no cracking. sorry I can't help with an ez fix. Joe
I cover the habitat with brown caulk then put the dirt over that let it dry and presto no cracking. Plus you really have to make sure the dirt is dry. good luck
I have made paper mache with wallpaper paste before. It only lasts 3 days in a sealed bucket vs. 2-3 weeks with other paper mache mixes.
First step is to bake your dirt for a while, this will get all mositure out. For a slow setting dirt use elmers glue its probally more cheap than wallpaper paste (unless thats your trade then I'm sure you have it laying around).
If you want to try something new use a clear epoxy instead of elmers. It's much stronger and drys faster so make sure you work quick and have everything how you want it. Learned this on from the vets on here! Thanks everyone
I buy a bucket of "Stucco-It" from a lumber yard, (Menards).Its about two gallons. I then add black dry powder paint, that you buy at a hobby store. Mix in paint, to the color you desire, want it darker,add more paint.As it dries, mix in habitat,leaves,weeds,corn stalks,etc. Dries nice and hard.Does not crumble,spill,or leave a mess when moved.