Plaster Instructions

Below are brief instructions for plaster casting. Please read the package that your plaster comes in for better instructions.  No two plasters are exactly the same.

When using plaster in Sweetbrier Art Molds, you will need a soapy release agent to help to dispel the air bubbles that occur naturally in plaster. Swish the soapy water or release agent in the openings in the mold. Pour out excess water.

Follow the plaster manufacturers instructions for mixing, pouring and de-airing the plaster. The consistency of plaster should be like heavy cream.

Measure or estimate the amount of water required to fill the mold before starting. You will not need enough water to fill the mold, only about 2/3's of that amount of water. The package that the plaster comes in should have the proportions of water to plaster that is best for their product.

Pour the water into a flexible mixing bucket. Always put the water in the bucket first and then add plaster to the water.

Sift the dry plaster through your fingers as it goes into into the water. Allow the plaster to be absorbed into the water.

Mix well following the directions on the package in which the plaster came using a whisk or your hand. The longer you mix, the stronger the plaster. Do not mix more than three minutes.

Put the mold on a level surface. Pour the plaster into the molds.

For better results, vibrate the molds full of plaster to assure that all the tiny parts are filled.

Allow the plaster to cure (dry) completely to be sure that the small or tiny parts are very strong. Flex the mold gently in several directions to loosen the cured part.

Use caution with plaster. Never pour it down a drain, any drain, toilet, sink, tub, etc. Do not rinse or wash plaster covered tools in your sink. Plaster will set up, even in a drain. Wash tools used in a bucket. Discard the water outdoors.