nick_mi said: I have used joint compound many times, I've added tempera paints for color as well. I buy the ready to go 4.5 gallon buckets; use as is for super thick or mix in some water to thin it out. Leaving the bucket in a tub of hot water for an hour or two helps take off some of the cold (and pre-warm the tub). Scoop out as much as you can back to the bucket when done, then use lots of water to dissolve what remains. Make sure you lotion after, as it really dries your skin out (contains lime which is mildly basic). Thick layers don't dry up much but thinned out it dries faster due to the thin layer, especially around the nose/mouth and adds something to the experience (pulls the skin tight as it dries but gets slightly itchy when it starts to crack).

The others I have no experience with, but have done glue+borax slime several times and liquid latex (PIA if you have body hair). I would love to try alginate some time.

thickmudluvr said:

When you used it how long did it take to get dry?

Wildebeest said: I'd personally avoid joint compound as it's horribly drying to one's skin. While it does wash off easily with soap and warm water, it strips the moisture from my hands every time I tape. I can't imagine the level of scaliness that would be incurred after a full on joint compound session.

It won't kill you, but it likely won't be the most pleasant feeling afterward either. If you're absolutely committed to trying it, spot test with small amounts of unexposed skin first.