How to Mold a Fake Hand Prop

Add some creepy fun to Halloween with fake hand props.

Fake hand props are often needed for theatrical productions or for special occasions like Halloween. Whatever the reason, hand props are affordable to make but require ingredients that come in large quantities -- allowing you plenty of room for trial and error until you master the perfect hand. Recruit a helper for this project, as one person will need to be the "template" for the hand while another will have to pour the plaster and other ingredients. With a little bit of practice, you could complete a fake hand prop in a single afternoon or evening.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard box
• 16 lbs. of plaster of Paris
• Cooking spray or petroleum jelly
• Caulk
• Duct tape
• Ballistics gel
• Flesh-colored liquid latex

Instructions

1. Lay the cardboard box with the open side up, and cut a large “U” shape into one end so it forms a large notch. Mix half of the plaster of Paris, adding a bit more water than the package asks for. Cover your arm completely with cooking spray or petroleum jelly. Pour the plaster into the box.

2. Place the bottom half of your hand in the plaster and roll it slightly so it is worked completely into the mixture. It should “sink” but not go too deeply. Keep it there for about 15 minutes and then remove your hand. Allow this half to dry.

3. Add more lubricant to your hand and place it back into the dried mold. Mix the other half of the plaster of Paris and pour it over your hand and arm, waiting another 15 minutes or so for it to dry. Lift the top mold slowly, as it is easily breakable. Allow both halves to dry for an additional hour.

4. Brush out any stray pieces inside the hand and then apply caulk around the hand outline of one mold. Seal up the mold, duct taping it securely and giving the caulk plenty of time to dry.

5. Pour the ballistics gel into the mold and then chill the filled mold in the fridge. Pull the hand out of the mold in one large piece after it has gotten fully cold. Paint on some liquid latex to replicate skin to make your hand convincingly realistic.

References

• Curbly: How to Make a Fake Hand