Many of the recipes, props, and tutorials that are shared to create creepy looking Halloween props are created using monster mud. Monster mud is a blend that is applied like paint to props in order to create a hard shell exterior to make them hold up outdoors. Here’s how to make your own…
MYO Monster Mud
What is Monster Mud used for? Well, to create fantastic props, like the Eternal Wait shown above. Cotton Mop strings can be dipped in the monster mud and draped over a plastic skeleton or skeletal prop to create the effect.
You’ll Need:
Drywall Joint Compound
Exterior Latex Paint, stirred well
Drill Mixer Bit
Bucket
Attach the drill mixer bit to the drill and open the joint compound. This is a prepared compound, not the dry kind that you add water to. The mixture needed is 5 parts Joint Compound to 1 part Latex paint. How much you mix is completely up to you for the project you need.
For example, if you need 6 cups of mix, you’d use 5 cups of joint compound and 1 cup of latex exterior paint. If you need about a gallon worth you’d use approximately 12 3/4 cups joint compound and 3 1/4 c. paint.
It doesn’t matter what color you use, but it is recommended to use dark grey or green, etc to make it blend in easier for your prop. Combine the ingredients in a bucket, Mix with the drill bit until it’s very smooth.
How to Use it
Apply the monster mud over burlap, paper mache, etc painting it on. It will take about 24 hours per coating to dry, so keep that in mind. Do not apply it too thickly or it will crack. Repeat layers as needed.
How to Make Monster Mud – Watch the Video:
How to Seal Monster Mud aka Monster Mud Waterproofing
Once the creature dries completely, you might find yourself worrying about how you’re going to preserve it. Luckily, if you’ve used exterior latex paint, as recommended, the monster mud has a natural seal built in. While this is generally moisture safe, you’ll want to ensure the monster isn’t left in the pouring rain.
If you’d like to display the monster mud creations on a covered porch or patio, they should be just fine. We leave ours out for about 8 weeks every year with no ill affects.
If you’ve used indoor latex paint, you’ll want to apply a waterbased polyurethane. If you’d like you can apply this using a spray bottle in a well ventilated area.
Another option is Dry-Lok, which comes in two colors, white or gray. Keep in mind that this will affect the final coloring of your monster mud creation.
Image Credit: The Eternal Wait by Mike_Pants
