How to Make Plaster of Paris for Art

Handprints can be made in plaster of Paris.

Plaster of Paris is a form of plaster that is soft and moldable. It is commonly used by teachers and parents to help their children make arts and crafts projects. One of the most commonly made craft projects made with plaster of Paris is a child's hand or foot print. You don't have to buy a plaster of Paris kit at your local craft store. You can make your very own plaster of Paris out of flour.

Things You'll Need

• Sheets of newspaper
• 3 cups flour
• Bowl
• 2 cups warm water
• Spoon
• Mold

Instructions

1. Cover your workspace area with a few sheets of newspaper. Making plaster of Paris is messy.

2. Sift three cups of flour into a bowl and add some air to it by stirring it around a bit with your spoon.

3. Add two cups of water slowly, mixing as you go. Continue mixing until you no longer see lumps and the mixture is smooth.

4. Check the consistency of your homemade plaster of Paris. If it is too thick, add a little more water. If it is too thin, add a little more flour.

5. Pour your homemade plaster of Paris immediately into the mold you want to use for your art project. It will begin to dry quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to have children wear old clothes or an apron while making plaster of Paris.

• You cannot save plaster of Paris once you make it. If you have another art project you want to do later on, you will have to make a fresh batch.

References

• I Love India: How to Make Plaster of Paris