Creating Your Cast

The following information is to provide you with an insight into the quality materials we use when undertaking your request to create a casting memory on your behalf.

​

THE MOULD....

We use a 'Class A type 1' Alginate that is TGA Registered. It measures exactly 25 microns  making the mould it produces extremely accurate ensuring the surface detail of the body part can be mirrored in the final cast. This temperature sensitive Alginate can set very quickly.​

​

Although still a Class A Type 1 Alginate, we use a uniquely formulated Alginate for Family Table castings as the expanded size of the mould requires it to have additional strength. The mould is then encased and set in Plaster of Paris bandages prior to pouring the casting stone. 

 

Hand casting in Brisbane & SEQ can sometimes be difficult for moulding purposes as the water supply is quite hard and can in some instances affect the Alginate. This being the case we use a 'Salt Free, Chemical Free & Bacteria Free Purified' water to ensure that the Alginate is not compromised when mixed and is gentle on sensitive skin types.

 

CASTING STONE...

Although various types of Plaster can be used in producing a final cast it's durability is questionable when comparing this medium with our Ultra-Fine Casting Stone. Unlike Plaster, Ultra-Fine Casting Stone can take several weeks to completely dry out, that's why it's so robust when cured. Many quick drying Plaster casts set to a yellow colour unlike the stone we use which cures pure white. Some of the image's shown on this page are close up photo's being part of a hand cast, exceptional detail can be be achieved with this medium and our unique casting methods.

​

Our Ultra-Fine Casting Stone has been formulated to give exceptional detail in 3D castings. When cured/dried it is extremely resistant to wear and unlike Plaster will not 'chalk' over time. Once the cast is initially set over several hours it is removed from the mould. This is where the fine detailing of the cast begins.

​

Once removed it takes time and focus to meticulously attend to tiny inverted air bubbles or any slight imperfections that is an inevitable result of the moulding process and to ensure a top quality finish. Once cured over several weeks the final cast can then be sealed, painted or waxed in whole or in part 

​

DISPLAYING YOUR CAST...

This is a vital component of your finished cast. It can make a hand cast into a piece of art. The bases are individually hand made in my workshop from solid Mahogany, American Black Walnut or Pine.  Other than Pine Timber (softwood) I source the Mahogany and Black Walnut (Hardwood) from a specialised supplier in Brisbane. The Timber arrive's in an undressed condition and then cut to specific shapes in my workshop and then given an initial sanding. This type of hardwood can literally last for generations. 

​

The bases are then given a decorative edge on my router. The Timber is then sanded and Danish Oil is applied. This process is repeated several times over a several days to remove any burrs with a minimum of 3 or 4 coats of Danish Oil. If required, a Cabothane Clear Varnish or French Polished can be added. The Pine bases can be stained but Mahogany and Black Walnut have their own rich and unique colours so I don't recommend staining. The underside is finished with Felt to protect your furniture.

 

Like to checkout examples of cast display ideas

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​