Create cornices with plaster.
Cornices can add an elegant and unique touch to your home's interior decor, but wooden ones can be expensive. A fairly easy and inexpensive alternative is to create hand-cast cornices from plaster and a plastic mold. You can then paint them a variety of colors with acrylic paints to match your existing decor and color scheme.
Instructions
1. Mix the plaster in the mixing bowl according to directions, but typically, a 2:1 ratio is desired (two parts plaster to one part water). Using the large spoon, mix until smooth with no obvious lumps. You can purchase plaster for approximately $15 per 25-pound bag from your local home improvement store. Purchase plaster molds online or at craft stores.
2. Pour the plaster mixture into the mold slowly, occasionally tapping the side of the mold to release air bubbles. You might want to prop the mold up with old towels to keep it steady while you are pouring the mixture. Let dry completely, which may take one or two weeks.
3. Run the heat from a hair dryer over the mold to soften the plastic, once the plaster is thoroughly dry. This will allow you to remove the mold easily from the plaster. If you try to remove the mold with the plastic being firm, you risk breaking your plaster cornice while trying to release it.
4. Spread out old newspapers and lay the cornice down on top of them. Using a slow, sweeping motion, spray a coat of primer onto all sides of the cornice. Let each side dry completely as you go.
5. Paint the cornices with your desired colors, using acrylic paints and artist brushes. Let dry completely. Finish your project with a clear top coat of varnish to protect the finish.
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