The alcohol is not working for you because traditional bladder pads are not meant to get wet in any way. My boss told me that using a dollar bill is crap. Think about it--where has it been before it got in your pocket? Larger bills (particularly franklins) have trace amounts of cocaine on them because it's simply easier to carry around a suitcase of franklins than washingtons. Plus, the ink will sometimes rub off on the pads. Your best option is rice paper. It can be picked up at a craft store (particularly one that carries chinese watercolor supplies). Another option is to go to an old-timey drugstore and buy cigarette paper. of course, you might want to be over 21.