I mixed up a batch of the paper mache clay - the first batch wasn't great because I had not drained the paper pulp.

I had to add a lot more Porcelain Cement so it is much more like a rock - and thicker as well. I rolled it out and made 2 holes to put the wire through so that I can attach it to the boxes and it will be flat. It's about 2" x 4"

I made a 2nd batch in which I followed the directions - and drained the paper pulp and this batch I did not like as much as the first - the paper pulp made them more fragile and added this mottled texture and color. I see I will have to experiment with the recipe.

I really also want to be able to create some kind of clay that I can build sculptures with that does not need to be fired, and I thought this might be it, but I will have to more research into the recipe.

https://www.ultimatepapermache.com/weatherproof-paper-mache-clay

I am not very good at watching videos and doing exactly what I am told but in this case, I definitely need to watch her video again and even maybe her previous videos to see exactly how she is making these sculptures.

I know she uses Toilet Paper but I definitely do not want to do that - why? because these are TREES we are talking about!!! I want to use junk mail. This is not for my comfort! This is to make use of trash while making art at the same time.

Next I painted them white and painted the Sigils on each:

Here's one up close to look at.They have bumpy weird edges and are kind of bumpy all over. They are sealed with housepaint and the Sigil is painted on with acrylic. I will put an exterior clearcoat on before I hang them.

I have 30 more to go. There are a total of 41 trees planted out there now. I had to skip the Oaks because one of the Oaks died and my husband, who is out at the property with his brother planting trees this week, replaced that one Oak with something else, so I have to find out what he put in it's place before I can include any of the Oaks.

I am hoping that once I buy a hand mixer, I can get the clay a little smoother so it is not so unwieldy and then I can actually make the edges of these "cookies" smoother. But the real purpose here is to create something that lasts out there - doesn't fade - doesn't break in the sub-zero winters and the blazing hot summers.

Each Sigil says "I, "tree name/kind", grow strong and tall to glorify God".

Previous Posts

Part 7: @in2itiveart/sigils-for-the-trees-part-7-2024-creating-permanent-outdoor-sigils-that-will-last
Part 6: @in2itiveart/prayer-sigils-for-trees-part-6
Part 5 @in2itiveart/prayer-sigils-for-trees-part-5
Part 4 @in2itiveart/prayer-sigils-for-trees-painting-part-4
Part 3 @in2itiveart/prayer-sigils-for-trees-part-3
Part 2 @in2itiveart/prayer-sigils-for-trees-part-2-tree-names-as-sigils
Part 1 @in2itiveart/prayer-sigils-for-trees-part-1