Plaster of Paris is an inexpensive and fun way to craft items that match your décor theme. You can purchase small quantities from craft stores or large bags from the local home improvement store. Once fully cured, plaster is relatively durable and can be painted. Color also can be added to the plaster mix, but it is difficult to make the color consistent.
Plaster
Plaster can be poured into a mold or applied to the outside of a mold. You can make many decorative items with plaster, such as chess sets, wall hangings or knobs. Most plaster is mixed approximately two parts plaster to one part water, though this may vary depending on your mold. Some plasters dry very quickly but you can use extenders such as vinegar to lengthen the drying time. Also, if you are pouring plaster into a mold, be sure to tap the mold to release air bubbles.
Metal Molds
Just about anything can be used as a plaster mold. Cookie and cake molds can be found at thrift stores and flea markets for extremely low prices. If you are using metal, it is best to spray with a bit of cooking oil to help release the plaster. Look for shallow metal pans to make it easier to release your project from the mold. If you do not need a three dimensional cast, you can use simple cookie cutters, fill them with plaster and remove the cutter when the plaster sets.
Plastic and Silicone
Candy molds are made of a durable plastic or silicone and are excellent for plaster. Wilton ® makes a wide variety of character and holiday molds. Plastic ice cube trays now also come in a variety of shapes and are very inexpensive. Plaster projects made with these can be used to make birthday or baby shower favors, a thematic room or to decorate at Christmas and Halloween. Some of the molds are meant to make suckers and you can either clean this part off when your plaster sets, or use the area to insert a hanger.
Outside Molds
You also can use plaster on the outside of a mold. A child's hand print can be captured forever by pressing the hand into plaster mixed a bit on the dry side. A balloon can be used to make simple circular or long, round shapes. If you wish to get more creative, you can use plaster outside of a plastic Halloween mask to create a wall hanging. Many pregnant women have had their belly used as a mold--be sure to use proper lubrication when using body parts as plaster can reach dangerously hot temperatures when curing. Do not leave plaster on skin for extended periods.
Making a Mold
There are different mold kits from which you can make your own molds if you can't find a mold that suits your project. You can either carve a design from wood, or use and item that already exists. If you are using copyrighted items, be sure you check the law and follow personal use rules. The mold kits are usually a stretchable plastic or silicone that is poured over your item, allowed to cure and then peeled off. Be sure to follow manufacturer's directions for the best results. You can then pour plaster into the mold and have a replica of the original.
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