Casting the Hand
Hands are so detailed and individual, that sculpting them accurately takes a very long time. In order for the hands to be as detailed as they possibly can we always make a life cast.
First we Vaseline the models hand then we build a box around it; we have to reinforced the box with plaster bandages to prevent any leakage. We then mix alginate (this is the dental material used for taking teeth impressions) with room temperature water and we must be quick as the alginate takes 2-3 minutes to set!
Ensuring that the models hand is in the correct pose, we slowly pour the alginate into the box and then wait for it to set. We know when it is ready because it feels like rubber. Then we ask the model to gently tense and relax their hand allowing air into the mould which releases their hand.
The alginate mould is filled with plaster to produce a solid hand. It then goes back to the sculptor to be fitted to the clay body. The body is now ready to be moulded.
That’s all for now! We’ll be back in the Mouldshop next week, join us then.