How to Make Hand Molds in Beach Sand

Make a plaster mold of your handprint in the sand.

Make plaster casts of your hands or your children's hands in the sand at the beach. Sand casts made with plaster of Paris are the simplest of molds. Create a space into which you can pour plaster by pressing your hand in wet sand to make an indentation. When the plaster is fully dry, you will have a cast of your hand. Many craft stores sell plaster of Paris, sometimes as part of casting kits.

Things You'll Need

• Plaster of Paris
• Bucket
• Water
• Spoon

Instructions

1. Press your hand 1 to 2 inches deep to make a mold. Use lightly packed sand, and be sure you're far enough out that the water won't splash on your mold.

2. Mix the plaster of Paris in the bucket according to the package directions. Carry water with you and mix the plaster right before you're ready to cast the mold, as it sets quickly. As an alternative, use sea water.

3. Pour the plaster into the handprint until it is level with the sand.

4. Allow at least 30 minutes for the plaster to set. Lift the casts out of the sand and rinse them off.

References

• "Crafting in a Green World"; Beach Craft: Make a Sandy Handprint Keepsake; Julie Finn; July 2010
• Crafts for All Seasons: Sand Casts

Resources

• "Completely Coastal"; Beach Craft with Sand Plaster Mold; June 2011