What is plaster of Paris and how does it need to be mixed? Read this article for the recipe to understand the answers of these queries.
Plaster of Paris has been used as a craft material for thousands of years. It is also one of the most versatile materials used for building purposes. Chemically, plaster of Paris is a compound of gypsum (calcium sulfate mineral), obtained commercially by heating gypsum to a specific temperature. Besides arts, crafts, and construction work, it is used in medical applications, architecture, school projects, and fire protection.
There are several types of plaster of Paris, pertaining to the different ingredients used and methods of preparation adopted. Consequently, its recipes may vary from one product to another. You can purchase plaster of paris from crafts and construction distribution stores. Another cost-effective and better alternative is to prepare plaster on your own. Making it by using different ingredients is fun, which you can accomplish with basic skills.
Preparing plaster of Paris is an easy home project, which you can complete within a few minutes time. And the better side is that the ingredients required are readily available in the stores. You can even check your kitchen cabinet for the essential supplies. The following is in brief, the common and easy methods of making plaster of Paris, that you can refer to while making it at home.
Making Plaster with Glue
Supplies Required
- White glue
- Lukewarm water
- Mixing bowl
- Stirring spatula
Instructions
- First of all, measure and add 1 part warm water and 2 parts white glue in a mixing bowl.
- Stir well the mixture, until the glue is evenly distributed.
- To this mixture, add water in small amounts, while continuing to stir.
- You can stop pouring water, when the consistency of the mixture is smooth and medium thick.
- This is how you can make homemade plaster of Paris with the help of white glue.
Making Plaster with Flour
Supplies Required
- All-purpose flour
- Lukewarm water
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden stick for stirring
Instructions
- Combine 3 cups all-purpose flour and 2 cups warm water.
- Stir the mixture well to loosen any lumps, you can mix it with your hands to prepare a smooth dough.
- If necessary, add more flour or water, until the dough is firm and smooth.
- Knead the dough for about 5 – 7 minutes to make a consistent batter of thick plaster of Paris.
Making with Plaster of Paris Powder
Supplies Required
- Plaster of Paris powder
- Water
- Mixing bowl
- Stirring spatula
- Very fine pebbles (for texture)
- Liquid food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, mix 2 parts of plaster powder and one part of water.
- Continue to stir the mixture, until the plaster is blended well.
- If you are using food coloring, add one teaspoon of coloring in this plaster mixture.
- To this mixture, you can add about half a cup of pebbles to improve the texture.
- For additional info, follow the directions mentioned in the kit for mixing plaster of Paris correctly.
The resulting plaster can be used for brushing, making molds, coating over sculpture, and pouring a solid block. Also, with the above recipes, making various homemade crafts like sidewalk chalk, face masks, flower pots, and bubble paint will no longer be a challenge for you. What’s more, plaster of Paris requires very little time for drying and hardening. Just ensure that you proceed with your project before the mixture dries out.
