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Paper Casting

Casting Instructions

Paper casting is fun, inexpensive and easy to do. Just mix cotton sheets in the blender, press pulp into the mold then dry and enjoy.

Many existing products and found objects can be used for paper casting. Such as clay stamps and metal cookie cutters, candle and plaster molds, butter and chocolate molds, or make your own in clay (Fimo) and plaster.

Supply List: 
Cotton casting sheets, paper scraps, casting powder, moulds, sponge, wire mesh strainer or 5 gallon nylon paint strainer, blender, knife, paints and dye?s, 1/8 measuring spoon, spray cooking product (Pam), scissors, mixing bowl, hot pads, wire rack, brushes, glue gun, spray paper sealer (Blair), accents.

Please read directions before you begin and follow precautions on all products. Supervise the kids around blender, ovens and glue gun. This information is in good faith, intended only as a guide.

  1. Start by spraying molds with oil cooking product to prevent sticking. Prior to use, rinse the mold with warm water to flush out any excess. You may need to repeat the oil if pulp starts to stick.
  2. Fill the blender ½ full with warm water for each batch.
  3. Cut or tear the casting paper or scrap paper into 2 inch pieces and add about 8 to 10 pieces depending on the size of your blender and let it soak for 3 minutes
  4. Add 1/8 level teaspoon of the casting powder and more water as necessary, cover and blend into desired apple sauce consistency. This non-toxic powder will bond and strengthen the fibers, improve casing surface and buffer against atmospheric pollution.
  5. Change the pulps color and texture with natural inclusions such as plant fiber or colored papers.
  6. At this point you should know what your blender can handle, if it smells funny you might be pushing your motor. Please don?t let the pulp go down the drain or in your garbage disposal.
  7. Strain the pulp through a mesh bag or wire screen. (any foam is from the casting powder and will dissipate) The pulp should be used as is saturated with water. Don?t press the pulp till it's in the mould.
  8. Apply wet pulp with your fingers about ¼ to ½ inch thick, then pat in place to remove any air bubbles. Use a very clean sponge to press the pulp into the mold. Remove as much water as possible by starting at the outside and working in. (take your time with this step, it makes a difference in the finished casting)
  9. Use a firm bristle brush to further tamp the pulp into the molds details.
  10. Allow the castings to dry in the mold naturally or use the sun.
  11. The next suggestions should only be used if obvious safety precautions of hot pads and complete supervision with the kid?s are observed. After all you are cooking paper and it will burn if left too long and the molds get very hot.
  12. If you just cannot wait or have limited molds you can try a hair dryer, or place the ceramic or metal mold in a pre heated 225 degree oven on the middle rack for 30 or so minutes with the door ajar to release the moisture. The microwave can also be used on medium high in 1 minute increments, then open the door to release the moisture, wait 3 minutes and repeat if necessary.
  13. Use a thin knife to lift edges to release casting from mold. (No kids of course) Any small torn area?s can be worked back in place.
  14. If the mold does not turn out just rehydrate the casting in the blender in cool water and start again. The casting powder is still in the fibers.
  15. Excess pulp can be saved in the freezer in an airtight container and used again.
  16. Embellish with acrylic paint, watercolor, pastels, metallic markers and eye shadow even works.
  17. Paper castings may be left natural or sprayed with a product designed for paper in a matt of gloss finish. The sealer may block some of the paints from bleeding and different effects are achieved depending when or if you apply the sealer before or after you paint. (outside ventilation is required)
  18. Glue on ribbon, dry flowers, raffia and you can give those old broken bits of jewelry a new life

Paper casting can be used for Christmas ornaments a hostess gift, package tags, stationery on boxes and so much more. Enjoy making and sharing your wonderful castings...


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