I just wanted to let you guys know that I'm currently trying this out.

I made the dough and it turned out perfect and I bought the exact same hide that you are using in the pictures and I covered it with oil and I put the dough on it and I have it in the oven now.

I bought the same water proofing paint that you are using but I bought the normal spray paint (It's the Krylon brand).

I'll post pics of it when it's finished if you guys want me to.