The term "plaster of Paris" was first used in the 1700s because of large quarry deposits of gypsum located in Montmartre, a district of Paris, which was a leading center of plaster at the time. Today, plaster of Paris has become synonymous with any type of plaster containing calcined gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate), sand and water. When these ingredients are combined, they result in the formation of a tough, dry product; however, plaster of Paris can be sanded to achieve a variety of looks. By following some basic guidelines, you can use plaster of Paris to mend cracks, fix dents and even to create artwork.
Instructions
Preparing the Mold and Plaster of Paris
1. Prepare the surface of the cast or mold to be used. Use a clean, warm cloth dampened with tap water to remove any dirt, grease, debris, or small bits of paint or plaster. If the surface is rough or jagged, use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper (such as 80-grit) to carefully smooth the surface. Use the clean, warm cloth to remove any dust produced by the sandpaper.
2. Create the plaster of Paris mixture. Although plaster of Paris can be purchased pre-mixed, you will most often find it in a powder form, which requires you to mix it yourself. By mixing plaster of Paris with water in a concentration of approximately 7 parts water to 10 parts plaster of Paris, you can achieve a very strong mold; likewise, by combining 8 parts water to 10 parts Plaster of Paris, your mold will allow for higher absorption. Place the desired amount of water into a large bucket and slowly sift the plaster of Paris into the water.
3. Soak the plaster of Paris powder in the water for a minute or two while mixing consistently. The longer the Plaster of Paris is mixed, the stronger it will be.
Using Plaster of Paris in a Mold
4. Pour the plaster of Paris carefully into the mold, while at the same time lightly tapping the mold to prevent any air bubbles from forming. Pour enough plaster of Paris into the mold so that it is slightly overfilled.
5. Level off the mold using a straight-edged tool, like a trowel or putty knife.
6. Remove the cast after one hour. Plaster of Paris is self-curing and can safely remain in open air while drying.
Using Plaster of Paris on a Wall
7. Apply the plaster of Paris to the crack or dent in the wall with a trowel or putty knife. Make sure the material is evenly spread, and all cracks or holes have been filled.
8. Sand the wall with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper.
9. Paint the patch created by the plaster of Paris to the original color of the wall.
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