Could someone please tell me how long does a large paper mache project last when

Question: Could someone please tell me how long does a large paper mache project last when made with flour and water!? !?

I would like to still have the project years from now without it molding or insects getting to it!. Thank you to anyone who can help!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

If you let the paper mache dry thoroughly (sometimes up to a week depending on the size of your project) it will last indefinitely!.

If you paint it, it will last even longer!.

If you coat it with clear lacquer or polyethylene (brush or in a spray can) it will last forever!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Recently my parents ( who save everything) brought me a Halloween mask I made in 1974!.!.!.!.from flour and water!.!.!.so the darn thing has lasted this long and my crazy kids want to keep it!! I had painted it so that may have helped preserve it!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Marcia,
If you replace the flour with PVA glue it has a better chance of lasting longer!. It is non-acidic, and doesn't have the organic base that flour has to attract as many bugs or molds to decompose it!. Www@QuestionHome@Com