Casting

We had the chance to do some casting in one of our lessons. This is when you cast the outer part of something using strips of mod rock, and then once removed you fill the inside with plaster then you have a replica of the item you casted. We were casting our hands, but because I had already done this in the previous year, I casted my foot instead.
Here is instructions on how to use this technique... (assuming you are casting your hand) you will probably need somebody to help you to so this.

1. firstly you need to cut strips of mod rock that are the length and width of your hand.
2. then use a pen to split your hand into sections top named a palm named b. and draw a line around the circumference of your hand. You will also need to lubricate your hand with vaseline so that your hand will be able to freely escape from the cast.
3. you will need a bucket of luke warm water. dip the strips of mod rock in the water and squeeze off the excess.
4. apply to your hand pressing down so that all the detail in the hand is being picked up - 4 strips length ways and then 4 strips width ways making sure there are no air bubbles.
5. carry on with this sequance until you are happy enough has been added
6. flip your hand over and apply vaseline to the sides of the mod rock so that when you add the mod rock to the other side of your hand, the hand will be able to get out.
7. do the same to the palm
8. once done make sure it is fairly dry and then pull the mod rock and release your hand
9. add some more mod rock around the whole cast so that when the plaster is added, none will leak through.

The cast has now been made. Now you have to make the plaster for inside the cast. this has to be the consistency of cream, this is made my the ratio of water:plaster 2:1. (e.g. 2 cups of water 1 cup of plaster) once you have the correct consistency, add it to your cast. You firstly add a little plaster and move it around the cast so that all parts are covered. Then you must add the rest, move the cast in circluar motions so that no air bubbles are in.