The easiest and most inexpensive way to strengthen the trunk of a tree of happiness or other craft is plaster or alabaster casting. You can dilute gypsum or alabaster for topiary in a separate container or directly in a pot. The first method involves diluting a liquid solution, the second - thick (to hold the trunk). Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, but in practice, both methods are applicable.

How to dilute gypsum - 2 ways of pouring

Liquid fill

Dilute gypsum (alabaster) liquid solution appropriate for a small pot, where kneading a thick mixture will be problematic. In addition, liquid gypsum creates a perfectly flat surface, which is convenient for further decoration of the topiary. However, it will take at least 24 hours to dry (depending on the size of the pot). It is this way - optimal and most convenient for filling topiary.

Dry gypsum is diluted with warm water in a ratio of 1 to 1, kneaded until smooth and poured into a pot to the desired level. The trunk is preliminarily fixed with plasticine to the bottom of the planter. We recommend that you immediately wash the container and the kneading whisk: gypsum mix sets quickly, and alabaster hardens in a few seconds.

Dense potting

Dense plaster cast great for large, wide or shallow containers and is appropriate if you need to continue working on the tree of happiness as quickly as possible: the solution hardens in 3-4 hours.

Pour dry gypsum into the pot, slightly below the required level. Slowly add warm water, knead the solution until a thick, creamy mass is obtained. We insert the trunk of the topiary in the desired position. It is very important not to overdo it with water: in a liquid fill, the barrel will collapse, and the drying time will increase.

Detail,

What is gypsum used for? Artists have used this product for a long time to make masks, sculptures and other volumetric projects. You can also do a craft at home, such as bubble painting and making sidewalk chalk using plaster of paris. Thus, it is a multifunctional product that can be used in a variety of ways.

Gypsum can be purchased at various locations. It can be ordered online, in fine art catalogs, and at stores selling class supplies. applied arts... You can buy plaster bandages, but you will need to submerge them in water in order to then use them to make crafts for which you planned to use plaster of Paris, whether it is making a piñata or a mask. Alternatively, you can buy plaster of paris in powder form, which will need to be mixed with warm water to be used in a variety of arts and crafts.

You can make a variety of gypsum, depending on how inventive what you are planning to do and what kind of craft you want to make. Most experts would agree that it’s easier to go out and buy a bag or plastic container of powdered plaster of paris to mix with water and create your own piece. However, you can also make your own plaster cast for simple projects.

Making plaster at home is a huge experience for preschoolers, pupils primary grades... In addition, if you are making crafts at home and on a budget, PVA glue or flour is excellent option, replacing the purchase of powdered gypsum at arts and crafts stores.

In order to make plaster at home, you probably have everything necessary materials at home and it will only take time from you to make a product for your craft. There are two recipes for making gypsum at home for your choice.

Firstly, you can knead the composition, which is diluted with PVA glue and warm water. At the heart of this recipe, you use 2 parts of PVA glue and one part of warm water. Pour glue and water into a plastic bowl. Add water while stirring until slightly thickened. The final product should be liquid and similar to the consistency of PVA glue.

Secondly, you can knead the paste to use it, just like gypsum. Take two or three cups of white flour and one or two cups of warm water. Mix flour and water in a plastic cup, stir until the lumps disappear, its consistency should be smooth, namely easy to stir.

1. masks;
2. papier mache;
3. pinata;
4. bubble drawing;
5. suspended structure;
6. chalk for drawing on the sidewalk.

Precaution: You may need extra time to dry adhesive mixture... And make sure you completely wet the newspaper or gauze strips before applying them to the mold you will be using for your project.

Your final product will be completely hand-made, from plaster of your own making. Having given enough time and attention to prepare gypsum of the required consistency, you will successfully cope with the work and be happy with your craft or handmade project.

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Alder (common) Family: Betulaceae Commercial names: black alder (Great Britain); gray alder (Europe); Japanese alder. Other names: Aune (France); eis (Netherlands); Erle (Germany); hannoki (Japan). Spreading: Northern Russia, North Africa and Western Asia, throughout Scandinavia and Japan, and throughout the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Description of wood Alder Wood color is dull, light reddish brown with darker lines ...

Albizia (West African) Family: legumes Commercial names: Sifu (Zaire); yatanza (Ivory Coast). Other names: Ainre (Nigeria); okuro (Ghana); Ongo (Cameroon). Place of growth: Tropical West Africa. Description of wood Albizia The color of the core ranges from dark red-brown to chocolate brown with a purple hue. The texture is rough. Weight ranges from 580-720 kg / m3; on average 640 kg / m3; specific gravity. 64. Mechanical properties Wood ...

Handicraft is not only a way to spend time interestingly and usefully, but also an opportunity for spiritual relaxation, which is so necessary for people in the modern world.

One of interesting species handicraft is the creation of sculptures and crafts which can be used as decorative elements interior, as original gifts and even toys for children. Having decided to do this type of needlework, you should decide what material to use for the manufacture of this kind of products. An excellent solution would be to use plaster, which is quite simple to work with, and the sculptures and crafts created from it are not only beautiful, but also durable. How to work with plaster will be discussed further.

Plaster crafts. How to dilute gypsum. Photo

How to breed gypsum for crafts?

Often, those who want to engage in such a hobby do not know how to dilute plaster for crafts and the proportions that must be observed. Let's take a look at some tips on how to make a cast.

How to dilute gypsum - proportions

1. The easiest method is to simply dilute gypsum with water in a ratio of 7: 10. This solution will allow you to create crafts that can be easily processed. But, such products will not be strong enough and will break easily. Therefore, to ensure greater strength, 2 tablespoons of PVA glue should be added to the resulting solution.

Advice: when preparing the solution, gypsum should be added to the water, and not vice versa. This sequence excludes the appearance, and, consequently, the inhalation of gypsum dust.

2. The second method of creating a gypsum solution is more complicated, but it makes it possible to produce stronger products that will not lose their original appearance over time. When using this method, gypsum is diluted with water and slaked lime in proportions of 6: 10: 1, respectively.

How to dilute plaster and then from it beautiful crafts... Photo

How to make plaster solution for colorful crafts?

In order to give color to liquid gypsum, you will need:

• gypsum;
• water;
• gouache;
• jar;
• container for mixing the solution;
• stirring device (spatula, spoon, stick, etc.).

How to dilute multi-colored plaster. Photo

Let's analyze the creation of a colored gypsum solution in steps:

1. Dissolve the gouache in a jar with the amount of water required to dilute the gypsum.

Tip: to completely dissolve the gouache, you can close the jar with a lid and shake it.

Advice: gypsum should be poured into the water in a thin stream, stirring continuously, then the consistency of the solution will be as homogeneous as possible.

3. Stir the solution until a lump-free homogeneous mixture is obtained. The density of the gypsum solution should be like that of liquid sour cream.

Tip: you need to mix the solution as thoroughly as possible so that no air bubbles remain in it, otherwise there will be holes in the product after drying.

How long does gypsum dry?

The setting and hardening of the gypsum occurs already after four minutes after the preparation of the solution. And complete hardening occurs after half an hour. Therefore, the ready-made gypsum solution must be used immediately after mixing. In order for the setting to occur not so quickly, animal water-soluble glue can be added to the gypsum solution.

How long does alabaster dry?

Alabaster is an analogue of gypsum, which is a grayish powder with a fine structure. It is obtained by heat treatment of gypsum dihydrate. Externally, gypsum and alabaster are practically indistinguishable. But specifications these materials have the following differences from each other:

• the setting of the alabaster solution occurs instantly after mixing, therefore, its use is possible only when special additives are added to the solution that delay its drying;
• alabaster is a harder material than gypsum. This can be understood even by touch by touching products made from these materials;
• using plaster of Paris is safer than using alabaster.

How long does alabaster dry? You can answer this question if you know the technical characteristics of the dry mixture of alabaster. The seizure of the mixed alabaster solution begins 6 minutes later from the time of its preparation. Finally, the solution sets after half an hour. A couple of hours after dilution, the dried alabaster can withstand a load of 5 Megapascals.

Complete drying of alabaster occurs within 1 - 2 days.

So, now you know how to dilute the gypsum, how to make it colored, how long it will take to dry it completely, and other aspects of working with this material. Then it's up to you. Show yourself creatively and do not limit your imagination, then you can create many interesting and exclusive plaster crafts that will perfectly decorate your home or garden!

Gypsum is a white or yellowish powder, a mineral from the sulfate class. It is obtained by calcining gypsum stone (sulphate lime) at a temperature not exceeding 130 ° C.

Gypsum provides reliable fixation and hardens quickly. Due to these qualities, it is actively used in medical practice, being the basis of a plaster cast.

Why is a plaster cast applied?

Medical professionals apply a plaster cast to immobilize the damaged area of ​​the body. Gypsum is used for bone fractures, disorders of the functioning of the musculoskeletal system.

Thanks to the plaster technique, it is possible to fix the damaged area for further recovery and treatment.

How to remove a plaster cast yourself?

You can independently release the cast part of the body only when you are sure that the fracture has healed. An x-ray is the best way to verify this.

When removing, you should be extremely careful and attentive. It must be remembered that the muscles are weakened - and any sudden movement can cause pain.

For self-release from plaster you need: warm water, a towel, scissors with rounded ends.

To remove plaster without medical care and special tools, you must soften it. To do this, you need to wet it well with clean warm water, put a wet towel on top, and let the plaster soak for 15–20 minutes. Once you are satisfied that it is sufficiently saturated, you need to slowly and carefully cut the bandages and plaster. In order not to damage the surface of the plaster-cast part of the body, cut off the plaster in small pieces.

What to do after removing the cast?

Immediately after removing the plaster, it is necessary to wipe the area of ​​the skin underneath, clean water with the addition of a small amount of alcohol. Then, with a soft dry towel, dry it with blotting movements. To avoid irritation and dryness of the skin, lubricate your skin with a moisturizer.

But it is better to seek medical help!

First, an X-ray should be taken. It is necessary in order to know for sure that the fracture has healed.

Secondly, after consulting with your doctor, you need to start developing the joint, gradually increasing the load, following all the prescriptions, doing massage to restore blood circulation.

Well, and thirdly, you must follow the doctor. based on products that contain a large number of calcium: dairy products, meat, broths.

The procedure for removing the cast marks the next stage in recovery from injury. After all, there is still a long rehabilitation ahead of you. But first, the previously plastered part of the body needs to be put in order, including washing the plaster from it.

You will need

• - shower gel;
• - rolled oats;
• - powdered milk;
• - milk;
• - exfoliating gloves;
• - Vaseline oil;
• - sea salt.

Instructions

To remove traces of gypsum in warm water, wash the damaged part of the body with a washcloth and shower gel or. It is possible that during this, dead skin will peel off in some parts of the body. Don't worry - this is normal. After all, all this time, while the damaged area was covered with a plaster cast, and the epithelium could not peel off.

Use a body scrub for extra cleaning. It contains small crystalline particles, with the help of which traces of gypsum, dead cells are perfectly removed, and the skin texture is gently evened out. You can buy a ready-made scrub, and

Or for making small sculptures. The solution preparation technology is quite simple. The main thing is to know in what ratio the components are mixed. It should be noted that gypsum is the main material for making crafts.

What is gypsum

Before answering the question of how to properly dilute gypsum for crafts, it is worth figuring out what kind of material it is. First of all, it is very flexible. Gypsum can be applied to almost any type of surface. The material is easy to process and hardens quickly. Gypsum is used in many industries: as a fertilizer, as one of the components of paper and pulp production, as a component of enamels and paints. The material is also used for the manufacture of interior decorative elements. Often, gypsum is used as a binder in construction.

Material disadvantages

Since it is not a difficult process to breed gypsum for crafts, it is worth considering certain disadvantages of the material. This will make it much easier to work with him. First of all, gypsum has low levels of hygroscopicity and strength. Therefore, use decorative elements made of this material in rooms with high humidity Not recommended. In such situations, additional processing is required. For reliability, finished crafts should be covered with a coating that protects against moisture.

Before starting work, you should take into account the hygroscopicity of gypsum products. They absorb well any coating. Therefore, it is recommended to apply a layer of primer to the surface of the product. Only then can a moisture-proof coating be used.

How to breed plaster for crafts: proportions

There are several main methods for making gypsum mortar for making crafts. The easiest method is to dilute the powder with water. In this case, it is important to observe all proportions. 7 parts of gypsum requires at least 10 parts of water. It is worth noting that it is worth preparing the solution with extreme caution so that there are no lumps. It is recommended to add gypsum to the water, not vice versa. This method also eliminates the formation of dust.

This solution is easy to use. It can be used to make products of almost any shape. However, it is worth considering that the crafts are not very strong. They break and crumble easily. So how to breed gypsum for crafts?

Method two

So, how to breed gypsum for crafts. This method preparation of the solution is a little more complicated than the previous one. However, the mixture allows the production of stronger and more reliable products that retain their appearance for many years.

To prepare the solution, you need: 6 parts of gypsum, 10 parts of water, 1 part The components are gently mixed until a homogeneous mass is formed.

Making colored plaster

How to breed plaster for crafts different colors? This will require:

1. Gypsum.
2. Gouache.
3. Ordinary water.
4. Jar with a lid.
5. Dishes for solution preparation.
6. Spoon, scapula, or stick.

Kneading process

So, how to dilute gypsum for crafts from a multi-colored solution? The process is actually quite simple. To begin with, it is worth pouring gouache into the jar and the amount of water required to prepare the solution. To completely dissolve the paint, it is recommended to close the jar with a lid and shake slightly.

Colored water should be poured into the dishes where the solution will be prepared. Here, observing all the proportions, it is necessary to gradually add gypsum. It is worth pouring the powder into the liquid in a thin stream, constantly mixing the components. This will help to achieve a uniform consistency of the solution. The mixture should resemble thick sour cream. Stir the solution thoroughly during preparation so that there are no lumps and air bubbles. Otherwise, in finished product holes are formed.

How many crafts dry

Now you know how to breed plaster of paris for crafts. How long do the products dry? The gypsum solution is grabbed and gradually solidifies 4 minutes after its manufacture. Therefore, you should work with the finished material quickly and accurately. Complete hardening of the gypsum occurs in half an hour. In order for the mortar to set more slowly, a little water-soluble animal-based glue should be added to the solution.

How can plaster be replaced

There are many creative kits on sale at the moment. How to dilute plaster for Lori crafts, and the material from other kits for creating figurines, as a rule, is always indicated in the instructions. It is worth examining it before starting work, as the solution dries quickly. It should be noted that in some kits for creativity, analogs of gypsum are used. The most common of these is alabaster.

This powder has a grayish tint and a fine structure. The material is obtained as a result of heat treatment of gypsum dihydrate. Thanks to this, the finished solution received completely different characteristics. It should be noted that outwardly alabaster and gypsum are very similar.

How does alabaster differ from gypsum

Among the main differences between these substances, it is worth highlighting:

How many alabaster crafts dry

You can determine the solidification time of the material by examining the technical characteristics of the mixture. In general, the setting of the alabaster solution is observed 6 minutes after the substance is diluted. Partial solidification occurs after 30 minutes. It is worth noting that a hardened and dried solution is able to withstand a load of 5 MPa. Alabaster dries completely within 1-2 days. Despite the fact that products made of this material are stronger, it is not recommended to use the solution for working with children, as it is not entirely safe for health. Gypsum is preferable in this case.