Plaster Bandages: The 20 sq ft of plaster bandages is sufficient to cast the breasts and belly with an adequate number of layers of plaster guaze. If you wish to include shoulders, upper arms, and/or the upper 1/3 of thighs in the casting (or are carrying twins, etc), you will probably need another 1-2 rolls of plaster guaze.
What quality are you getting? The plaster bandages shown both measure 4in x 5yds. However, one clearly has much more plaster material, which makes all the difference. Both kits sold by Casting Keepsakes supply the rolls shown on the left. [Click photo for enlarged view.]
The casting stone can be used to smoothen out (and/or reinforce) the cast and paints can be applied directly to it.
You will need to provide a barrier or lubricant for the casting area (your belly, etc).
As far as lubricants, many agree that Vaseline
(as well as un-petroleum jelly) is the best with Udderly SMooth Udder Cream and vegetable shortening a close second and third. Be sure to apply a very generous layer of whichever you use.
If you do not like the idea of dealing with a messy lubricant, consider a plastic barrier: specifically Glad Press 'N' Seal plastic wrap. Members of our local mom group have experimented with several options and agree that a plastic wrap is much preferred over a lubricant. The tacky side of the Press N Seal wrap gently clings to mom's skin. It then separates very easily, cleanly and quickly from both mom's belly and from the back of the finished cast. Without a doubt, clean up is much easier and quicker.
You will also need to provide something (old towels or sheets, plastic bags, plastic wrap, etc.) to protect the floor and/or chair.
If you plan to paint the cast, paints can be applied directly to the casting stone/plaster and then a varnish or other sealant can be applied as a final coat. For a smoother and painting surface (needed for a more detailed painting), you may first choose to apply a primer or sealant to the dried cast prior to painting.
Note: There is no gift box (unless the gift wrapping option is selected) or traditional retail packaging with this basic kit.
*All plaster bandages are certainly not created equal and we are pleased to supply the very best quality plaster bandages on the market. We have tried other brands that promise the same quality, but we feel there is no comparison and do not want to sell less than the best quality materials. The bandages supplied in our kits contain a generous amount of plaster thereby making it easier to work with and providing a very strong cast.
*The casting material contained in the bandages is made from 100% natural materials and is non-toxic and safe to use on mom's skin. Further, there is no noticeable heat reaction when applied to mom's skin, unlike standard plaster of paris.
Life Casting Kits
