Yes MC seems to be easier to get than CMC although CMC can be bought in large (ie tons) amounts from China, but still at high prices from what I have been able to figure. I still haven't bought any but did come across a recipe that has good archival quality that simply uses Silver Star brand starch powder (Packed by Ward McKenzie in Australia).  I haven't tested it for adhesion but it came from a reputable book restorer in Sydney, could have been a museum site or something.  ( I have looked at so many the name slips my mind now). Here it is anyway if you are interested.

Starch Paste Recipe (Archival Glue)
Put one tablespoon wheat starch (e.g. Silver Star Starch) into a small microwave-safe bowl and add 5 tablespoons distilled water. Microwave on High for 20 seconds, remove and stir thoroughly with plastic or wooden spoon. Repeat about 4 times until paste is thick and translucent (recipe based on 650W oven). Let paste stand to cool, then force it through a plastic sieve and store in a plastic container in the refrigerator. To use, dilute the paste with water. This makes a small amount for immediate use. It will keep for a few days in the fridge.

I have bought the starch which, believe it or not, is not sold at the two big supermarkets in Australia, (Coles and Wooworths)but from IGA for any Aussies reading this, which is a smaller supermarket chain.  I will test it and let you know if you're interested. I might try adding a bit of PVA too. Who knows it might be a cheap alternative to MC and CMC.  Of course the archival quality is not a real necessity for me, but if it has any of the other qualities of MC then it may be useful. I don't like the short shelf life but I tablespoon to 5 of water sounds economical, then it is further watered down. (Can't see it working for PM myself but we will see.)
Lesley.

Lesley,

Sounds great.  I love that in the question of CMC vs. MC you've opted for door #3 and found your own way that works for you.  : )

And David, I agree my own experience is the guide I follow most often.  Just wanted to see if I was missing something.

Spent the day in the studio.  And do you believe, I'm still making pumpkins.  ?!  Seems that's what my family wants for Christmas this year.  : )

-- b

Another Australian source, from Henkel, this is their headquarters in Oz, contact them for local sources.

Henkel Australia Pty. Ltd., Kilsyth
135-141 Canterbury Road
3137 Kilsyth, VIC
Australia

Phone: +61-3-9724-6444
Fax: +61-3-9728-5877

David and others like to mix MC with other things.  I like it by itself.  It certainly dries faster without the white glue and other additives.

MC and CMC and similar have an incredible number of variations for industry.  It's hard enough to find it locally without getting crazy about tiny differences.

When we say that a little goes a long way, A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY!

I have the Henkel brand, and add 1 tsp (U.S.) of MC to one cup of water.

If you want it thicker, just just a little more; thinner, add more water.  This isn't rocket fuel, you know.

Tip:  although it mixes quite well, if you mix it a day or so ahead of use and let it sit at room temperature, it seems to be smoother.

Sue

I am grateful to Sarah Preston from a major distributor of CMC products for the following information.
"CMC is easier to work and formulate with compared to traditional methyl-cellulose. It has a higher level of water-solubility achieved by the addition of carboxymethyl groups along the main cellulose chain which makes the hydration of the molecule faster and easier."

hm ... the place where I buy MC sells a sodium carboxymethylcellulose too ... but it's a bit more expensive.  I suspect the "makes the hydration of the molecule faster and easier" means that you just add any temp water to CMC, mix and you get paste.

I actually don't mind the fuss of MC, tho.  I just need to mix the powder with hot water to disperse it, then add cold water to get it to gel.  It feels a little like doing magic when the cloudy hot water turns to a clear gel when I add the cold.  I laugh each time. 

It takes less than 10 minutes all told.  I put the water in containers with the ice, then put the proper measured amount of water in the microwave for 3-4 minutes until just about to boil.  Then pour my water on my powder, in my final container and stir.  Then add the measured amount of cold water and stir for another minute or 2.  I usually let the paste continue to set for another hour or so ... but it's usable right away. 

David, I wish you were in the states -- we could trade and see the differences.  (How much trouble would it be to send/receive white powder to/from a foreign country?) 

Sue, if you want a bit to compare, I'm happy to send a bit your way.  I'm curious about how what I'm using compares to the wallpaper version since I haven't been able to locate it.

Beth, I'm happy to trade, or just to send for experimental purposes.  I'm expecting a new supply soon of three different CMCs and will contact you when it comes.

too damn funny. 

I tend to judge strength as strong enough to hold the shape for the next step.  So, strong enough to hold the shape when I cut it off the mold.  Or strong enough to hold it's shape when I put a clay (mash) layer on it.  etc.

But so far no penguin sports. lol.

I should be able to send samples later this week.  Will pm/email when they're in the mail.

-- b