Plaster of Paris Letter Sculpture

Make a sculpture of your name initial out of Plaster of Paris and have fun decorating it.

Materials Needed

Plaster of Paris powder is extremely light and fine, thus easily dispersed through air. Caution should be taken to avoid getting the powder into the eyes and nose. Adult supervision is required.
Do not throw Plaster of Paris into the drain.
Watch out for this sign . It means you need an adult's help for the particular step.

	1.	Choose your name initial from a set of alphabet rubber mats and remove the letter from the mat. We will use the remaining square frame as a sculpture mold.
	2.	Grease the inner sides of the letter mold with petroleum jelly.
	3.	Stick double-sided tape all around the edges of the back of your letter mold.
	4.	Peel off the paper from the tape.
	5.	Stick the letter mold onto a Styrofoam board or any sturdy board. Press firmly and make sure it is securely attached to the board.
	6.	Prepare the Plaster of Paris mixture by measuring out 2 cups of Plaster of Paris powder onto a paper bowl or any disposable container. Slowly pour in 1 cup of water.
	7.	Mix slowly until no lumps are visible.
	8.	Add your desired color of poster paint and stir until the mixture is uniformly colored. If the mixture starts to set prematurely, add a bit of water and continue stirring.
	9.	Pour the Plaster of Paris mixture into the letter mold.
	10.	Use a spatula or a plastic knife to flatten and level the mixture.
	11.	Decorate while the mixture hasn't set yet. You may sprinkle on some glitter.
	12.	Stick some sequins, beads or small craft shapes. If the mixture sets while you're not quite done yet, that's alright. You can always glue on the decorations.
	13.	The Plaster of Paris will set in around 15 to 20 minutes. However, it's best to wait overnight before removing your letter sculpture from the mold.