base building problems

Submitted by marc on 5/23/06 at 12:28 AM. ( ) 66.188.216.102

i have tried twice to make a beach,deep water scene.i used base building mache from WASCOs.i let it set and dry.i then applied a elmers glue amd sand mixture over the top of the mache.both times i had moisture problems with the mache after the sand glue was applied which caused it to get moldy underneath the sand glue.any better ideas or solutions to the problem

Return to Habitat and Exhibit Category Menu


Pine Sol

This response submitted by Sean on 5/23/06 at 12:51 AM. ( sbwest@adelphia.net ) 67.22.66.148

When I hydrate my capes I use a table spoon of pine sol in 5gl of water just to insure I don't develope a mold problem. I don't know if it will help you with your next base. Here's a thought... try sealing your base with a rattle can of clear sealer of some sort. It will keep the moisture from getting into the mache.
Good luck


Marc call me

This response submitted by Laurier on 5/23/06 at 9:05 AM. ( houlel@onlink.net ) 209.105.208.222

call me at (705)476-0483 and I will teach you how to make a scenery.


Marc, you don't have to call me

This response submitted by George on 5/23/06 at 9:32 AM. ( georoof@aol.com ) 64.12.116.10

Switch your medium. You're putting too much water out there in mediums that relinquish it very VERY slowly. Put your cans of foam in the refrigerator to slow down the reaction time. Mix enough to cover the area you're wanting to be sandy, and remember, you only need an eighth of an inch of 8 pound foam to make one half to 3/4 inch of foam. Just as soon as it begins to bubble, start sifting beach sand on top of it. Continue to sift it until it's completely covered. The foam is actually sand colored and the real sand is only going to add texture to it. Once the foam is covered, look for "blisters" popping through. Pour more sand and begin patting it gently with your hands to keep it in the contours you want. When it's dry, flip it upside down to release the sand that's not adhered to the foam and you're done.


Return to Habitat and Exhibit Category Menu