I've been looking at this: http://www.craftmill.co.uk/epages/Store.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/CraftMill/Products/PR14/SubProducts/PR14-0003

This isn't the same as the sort of paper clay I'm used to. What I've used before is straight out of a packet, ready-to-use, no mixing, more like this: http://www.enasco.com/product/9724508

Is the type at Craftmill the same, ie. will it do the same job and have the same properties when it comes to sanding? It seems like a good idea to mix it myself because then I don't need to worry about making the unused clay very air tight. Just want to make sure it'll do the same job though.

I've only used the mix yourself type and that dried rock solid and sanded well. More like porridge before it dries though and was called paper pulp (more fitting to the consistancy).

I think your pre-made clay stuff is finer, so you can get a smoother surface pre-sanding.

Having not been cosplaying for very long (nor have I made very many things), I’ve only ever used the ‘mix-it-yourself’ type.

As Amy-Lou says, when you add water it forms a porridge-like substance. It’s not the most malleable substance in the word, but it works quite well when built over a structure.

And yes, you can sand it, and it’s probably best to, as it likes form a ‘nobbly’ surface when it dries. I often find adding more water to it (then is stated on the packet) will create a smoother surface when it dries, the only downside is that it can take a while to dry unless you have a hairdryer at the ready! Oh and the more water you add to it, the harder it can be to work with too.

I hope that was helpful... I’m not very good at these sort of things.

- Chibi

Thanks for the replies... seems like the pre-mixed stuff is more suitable for what I'm doing. Now I just need to find a good place to get it (bought my old batch while on holiday!)

Thanks again!