Buzz
Plaster of Paris is a simple material for creating DIY crafts at home. All you need is water and flour, or glue and water (if you want to minimize cleanup). Once mixed, you can use it to fill molds, create casts, or even make chalk from the plaster.
Steps
Making Plaster of Paris from Flour
Heat 1 cup (240 ml) of water to 38°C. Warm water speeds up the process. You can use a microwave or stovetop to bring the water to the right temperature.
Pour water into a bowl containing 2 cups (260 g) of flour. Pour the water evenly over the flour, then start mixing the mixture with a spoon or spatula.
- If you want to prevent the plaster from drying and sticking to the tools, you can use a disposable plastic spoon.
Mix the ingredients with a spatula until the flour is no longer clumpy and forms a thick white paste. The plaster will become thicker, but it should still be easy to mix. If the mixture seems too thick, add more water. If it's too runny, add more flour until it thickens.
Continue mixing the plaster for 10 minutes. The plaster will start to set during the mixing process. As soon as the mixture reaches the desired consistency, pour it into the mold.
Let it sit for 48 hours. The plaster will dry within 24 hours, but it won't be fully hard. Let the plaster sit at room temperature for 2-3 days to ensure it is completely dry.
Using Glue
Heat 2 to 3 cups (480 - 700 ml) of water to 38°C. You can use a microwave or stovetop to heat the water to the proper temperature.
Mix 1 cup (240 ml) of water with 2 cups of white glue (480 ml). Add the water and glue into a bowl and mix thoroughly with a spatula. Pour in small amounts of water at a time until the plaster reaches a soup-like consistency.
Mix for about 15 minutes before use. Plaster made with glue will take a little longer to dry, but you can still use it right after mixing. Pour the plaster into molds to shape it as desired.
Wait 48 to 72 hours for the plaster to dry. Since this plaster is made with glue, it will take longer to harden, so you'll need to wait about 3 days for it to completely dry. Keep the mixture at room temperature for even drying.
Tips
- Plaster of Paris powder is available at craft stores or online. This is the easiest method for mixing plaster.
- Wear gloves and an apron to prevent plaster from spilling or splashing.
Warning
- Avoid washing leftover plaster of Paris down the drain as it may cause clogs. Instead, let the plaster harden and dispose of it in the trash.
- Plaster of Paris dries quickly, so wash it off your skin immediately if the powder comes into contact with it.
- Do not use any body part as a mold, as it will be very difficult to clean or remove the plaster afterward.
Things You Need
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- All-purpose flour
- Warm water
- Stove or microwave
- White glue
- Plaster molds
