PLASTER WORKSHOP 2

CASTING A PLASTER MODEL

This post demonstrates a plaster model that was casted for a project of Critical Urbansim Unit 2. 

1- A release agent is applied on the surfaces of the wooden formwork to ease the removal of the plaster model once casted. 

Figure 1. Laser cut formwork

2- Formwork is fixed on the boards using clay. The clay helps to seal the formwork to make sure there are no leaks when plaster mix is poured in. 

Figure 2. Clay used to seal the formwork

Figure 3. Formwork sealed on the base using clay 

3- Plaster mix is made using 1pt of water for 1.5pounds of plaster powder. The ingredients are measured accurately to avoid any mistakes. 

Figure 4. Water poured into bowl for mixing plaster

Figure 5. Plaster powder transferred into water

Figure 6. Mixing of plaster powder with water

Figure 7. Formwork ready for plaster

Figure 8. Plaster Mix

4- Plaster is carefully mixed to avoid any lumps from forming. Once the mixture becomes slightly thick, it is poured into the formwork.

Figure 9. Plaster poured inside the sealed formwork

Figure10. Plaster set for casting

Figure 11. Plaster set for casting

 Below shows pictures of the plaster casts removed from the formwork. 

Figure 12. Final outcome

Figure 13. Final outcome

Figure 14. Final outcome

Conclusion

This was my very first attempt in casting a plaster model, and the simple formwork structures made it a good learning exercise. Some of the points to look out for in the future sessions include:

• Stick with the ratio stated to avoid any mistakes.
• Make sure the plaster is mixed well, without any lumps.
• Dont pour in plaster too quick. Make sure the mix has started to thicken.