I have never heard of that but I like the idea. You probably know it already, but make sure you don't use paper that is glossy, like some magazines are printed on. There are chemicals in that paper you really don't want your plants to absorb. But most newspaper these days is printed with soy based inks, so they are safe to use. I think I will give it a try. The clays can be a little expensive with you don't have an income, lol.