Introduction
Do you like decorating with crafts that you made yourself? Or maybe you would like to surprise a few guests by showing some delicate craft that you made?
The following guide will provide something that will deliver for both of those questions. Delicate plaster crafts can be something hard to do, but this one can be made easily and it will show life-like results.
If you’re working with plaster decorations, flowers are something you will run into pretty fast. Without any research, I’d be betting money that flowers have been used as a decoration since the dawn of mankind and they will be used so far into the future.
Since they are so popular, here is a guide on making some plaster flower art. This guide is about making plaster roses, but the same techniques can be used for making other flowers as well. The technique I’m talking about is using real flowers and covering them with plaster to make life-like decorations.
The process is so easy and simple that everyone can do these. The results should look like vintage, shabby chic, porcelain roses. How’s that for a description? I’m pretty confident that results will match it thought.
Understanding Plaster as a Craft Medium
Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand why plaster is a popular choice for crafting. Plaster of Paris is a quick-setting material that can capture intricate details, making it perfect for art projects like this one. It is composed of gypsum, which, when mixed with water, becomes moldable and sets into a solid form.
Moreover, plaster has a unique texture that can be painted and embellished, allowing for creativity to flourish in your projects. It is lightweight and can easily be shaped into various forms, making it ideal for beginners and advanced crafters alike. This versatility is what makes plaster crafts both enjoyable and rewarding.
The Benefits of Crafting with Plaster
Crafting with plaster offers numerous benefits that make it an appealing choice for artists and hobbyists alike. First and foremost, plaster is highly malleable when wet, which allows for intricate designs and details to be formed easily. This characteristic is particularly advantageous when creating lifelike representations, such as flowers, as you can capture the unique curves and edges that real blooms possess.
In addition to its versatility, plaster is also relatively inexpensive and readily available at most craft stores, making it accessible to a wide audience. You can create stunning pieces without breaking the bank, which is especially important for those just starting in the world of crafting. Moreover, plaster is non-toxic, making it a safe option for crafting with children, provided you supervise their activities closely.
Another noteworthy benefit of using plaster is its adaptability. Once your plaster creations are dry, you have a blank canvas that can be painted, stained, or embellished in countless ways. This means you can personalize your projects according to your style or the preferences of the recipient, making each piece unique and special.
Material List
Before you begin, here are the materials that are needed for this craft to succeed smoothly. Plaster of Paris is the main material here and for working with that, it’s good to prepare some protection for your working space. Wax paper is good as most things come off from it easily.
- Plaster of Paris
- Disposable bowl
- Plastic spoon
- Water
- Newspaper
- Wax paper
- Old paintbrush (do not use a good artist’s brush)
- Miniature silk rose bundles
- Crystal glitter
- Ribbon or lace trim
- Ruler
- Scissors
The Process of Making Plaster Flower Art
Now that you have your materials ready, you’re all set to begin crafting your plaster flowers. It’s essential to follow the steps carefully to ensure the best results. Patience is key in this process, and you’ll find that taking your time will yield beautiful outcomes.
How to Make Plaster Flower Art in 8 Steps
Step 1: Remove the store tag from around the stems of the bundle. Do not remove the floral tape that holds each rose stem in the bundles. Twist the bundle of stems to create one thick bundle.
Step 2: Cover your work surface with newspaper. Place a sheet of wax paper on the newspaper.
Wax paper is good as it doesn’t wet and plaster won’t stick hard into it. Plastic will do the same trick if you don’t have any.
Step 3: Mix plaster of Paris and water in a disposable bowl until the mixture is the consistency of melted ice cream. Too thin is fine because it will thicken as you work, but too thick will cause problems with the application.
The reason is that you will dip the roses into the plaster. If the plaster is thin, it will get everywhere easily. If it’s too thick, it just won’t stick to the flowers.
Step 4: Holding the twisted stems, dip the rosebuds in the plaster mixture. Roll the buds slowly around to coat them.
Using an old paintbrush, spread the plaster to the areas that could not be submerged far enough in the mixture. Paint the plaster down the stems to where you are holding them.
Step 5: Sprinkle crystal glitter over the plastered rosebuds while the plaster is still wet. Place the rosebuds carefully on the wax paper.
Allow the plaster to harden and dry; it might take overnight depending on how thick the layer is. Immediately clean your brush and spoon.
Do not pour unused plaster down the drain; pour it in the trash where it will harden with time. Allow the plaster residue in the bowl to dry, then crack it to release it in the trash before it is too hard.
Step 6: When the plaster on the rosebuds has completely hardened, mix more plaster of Paris and water in the bowl. This is for the stems so you won’t need to mix as much as the first application.
Step 7: Lightly hold the heads of the rosebuds. Paint the remainder of the twisted stems that were not covered in the previous application. Place the rosebuds on the wax paper. Allow the plaster to harden and dry.
Step 8: Cut a 12-inch length of ribbon or lace. Wrap the trim around the stems and tie into a bow.
You can also plaster a few single rosebuds to use as embellishments for other crafts.
The thin finish of the plaster on the roses will be very fragile. Chipping may occur, but I think the chippy look adds to the shabby chic vintage charm.
Note: Laying them on the wax paper will create a flat side when dry. Some might like that because it is one way to display them to others. If you will be displaying your roses in a vase, or want all sides to be formed perfectly, you will want to clothespin the rosebuds to a hanger to dry.
If you would like to completely cover the color of your flowers, allow the plaster to dry, mix another batch of plaster, and reapply.
Additional Techniques and Tips for Plaster Flower Art
While the basic technique outlined above is straightforward, there are additional methods and creative ideas you can explore to enhance your plaster flower art. Here are some tips you might find useful:
Experiment with Colors
Adding color to your plaster flowers can elevate their appearance significantly. You can achieve this by mixing acrylic paint into the plaster mixture before applying it to the flowers. Alternatively, you can paint the dried plaster flowers with acrylics after they have cured. This allows for a wide range of color options, from soft pastels to vibrant hues, enabling you to match your home decor or event theme.
Incorporate Different Flower Types
While this guide focuses on roses, don’t feel limited to just one type of flower. You can use the same plastering technique on other types of flowers such as daisies, tulips, or even foliage. This variety can create a stunning floral arrangement that adds depth and interest to your decor. Consider mixing and matching different flower types for a more dynamic presentation.
Use Natural Elements
To enhance the texture and visual appeal of your plaster flowers, consider incorporating natural elements. For instance, you could add twigs, leaves, or even small stones into your arrangements. These elements will complement the soft look of plaster flowers and create a more dynamic presentation. Additionally, adding dried moss or other organic materials can create a rustic or woodland-inspired look.
Creating a Plaster Flower Wreath
Once you have mastered the art of making plaster flowers, you might want to create a wreath. Start with a wire frame and attach your plaster flowers using floral wire or hot glue. This project can be perfect for seasonal decorations, such as a spring wreath with pastel-colored flowers or a fall wreath with rich autumnal tones. You can also personalize the wreath with ribbons and other embellishments to match your style.
Preserving Your Plaster Creations
To ensure your plaster flowers last, consider sealing them with a clear acrylic spray or a sealant designed for plaster. This coating will protect them from moisture and dust, helping them maintain their charm for years to come. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. Additionally, store your creations in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration and degradation.
Creative Applications for Plaster Flower Art
Plaster flower art can serve a variety of purposes beyond simple decoration. Here are some creative applications to consider:
Home Decor Accents
Plaster flowers can be used in a range of home decor projects. Consider creating a decorative centerpiece for your dining table or a beautiful arrangement for your living room. You can place the flowers in a stylish vase or even attach them to a decorative frame for a unique wall hanging. The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating plaster flowers into your home decor.
Gift Giving
Handmade plaster flower arrangements make thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, a personalized piece of art showcases your creativity and adds a personal touch. You could even create a themed bouquet for a specific occasion, such as a wedding or baby shower. The time and effort you invest in crafting these flowers will be appreciated by anyone who receives them.
Event Decorations
Consider using plaster flower art as part of the decorations for events such as weddings, parties, or showers. These flowers can be integrated into centerpieces, table settings, or even as part of a stunning backdrop. Their unique texture and vintage charm will surely impress your guests and add a special touch to any celebration. You can even coordinate the colors of your plaster flowers with the theme of the event to create a cohesive look.
Conclusion
This simple how-to-make plaster flowers guide shows one way to do this kind of decoration. The other way would be to do them without the flowers, but making the rosebuds would need some delicate skill and artistic skills and it wouldn’t be for everyone then.
If you want to do it that way, it will take some more time, but is not impossible. The plaster needs to be thicker so you can mold them with a spoon or something else metallic or plastic.
You could do the inner part of the rosebud first and then do the outer layers, finally working on the stem. How I would proceed with it would be making the inner part of the bud first, then letting it harden. After that, I would work layer after layer until I have the whole flower done.
Why do I do it like this? Working with soft material can make your blood pressure rise if you’re too greedy. I rather work with 5 flowers slowly than 1 flower fast. This way I can do detailed work and reach more life-like results as I don’t have to be adjusting the small details all the time.
If you want to paint your plaster flowers, check out this guide on painting plaster art. With proper painting, you can take your roses to a new level. As written in the guide, remember that you don’t have to get it perfect straight away; if you make small mistakes, let it dry and repaint those areas.
Also, here are guides for making plaster flowers, plaster handprints, animal tracks, and bas-reliefs. Exploring these additional projects can further enhance your skills and creativity in working with plaster, expanding your repertoire of craft techniques.
In conclusion, creating plaster flower art is not only a delightful project but also a way to express your creativity. Whether you choose to make a bouquet, a wreath, or use them as decorative accents, the possibilities are endless. Gather your materials, follow the steps, and let your imagination bloom!
As you embark on this crafting journey, remember that the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. Allow yourself the freedom to experiment and make mistakes, as these can lead to unexpected and beautiful creations. Embrace the learning curve and don’t hesitate to explore other crafting techniques that can complement your plaster work.
Consider integrating other materials like fabric or wood into your projects to create mixed media pieces that enhance the aesthetic of your plaster art. You might be surprised at how versatile plaster can be when combined with other elements, opening up new avenues for creativity. Happy crafting!