AY Honors/Plaster Craft/Answer Key

1. What is the principal ingredient of plaster of Paris?

Plaster of Paris is based on calcium sulfate which is derived from gypsum.

2. Give the steps in pouring a plaster item and preparing it for painting.

3. Know how to remove air bubbles from a poured item.

Air bubbles are caused by the surface tension of the water mixed into the plaster. This surface tension can be eliminated by spraying a mold treatment such as Airid onto the mold before pouring the plaster. The mold treatment will reduce the surface tension and prevent bubbles from forming.

You can also mix up some new plaster mix and apply it onto any holes in the finished piece with an artist's brush. Let it dry for an hour before painting.

4. Know how the setup time can be increased or decreased for plaster.

5. What precautions should be taken when cleaning the mixing and pouring equipment?

6. When is a sealant applied to a plaster item and why?

7. What type of paint is best to use on plaster craft items?

8. Paint three items that will include the following designs and techniques or equivalent:

a. Floral to show shading

b. Fruit to show highlighting

c. Animal to show fine line or detail

d. Religious motto to show letter highlighting

9. Mold and paint two additional items of different designs.