Can You Use Candy Molds for Plaster of Paris?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you may have wondered if you can use candy molds for plaster of Paris. After all, both candy molds and plaster of Paris involve creating shapes in a mold. However, it’s important to understand the differences between the two materials before attempting to use them interchangeably.

What is Plaster of Paris?
Plaster of Paris is a gypsum-based material that is commonly used for sculptures, models, and other craft projects. It’s made by heating gypsum to remove water molecules, which results in a fine powder that can be mixed with water to form a paste. When the paste dries and hardens, it creates a solid object that can be sanded or painted.

What are Candy Molds?
Candy molds are typically made of food-grade silicone or plastic and are used to create chocolates, candy shapes, and other edible treats. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be reused multiple times.

Can You Use Candy Molds for Plaster of Paris?
The short answer is yes, you can use candy molds for plaster of Paris. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind before doing so.

  • Mold Material: Candy molds are typically made from silicone or plastic materials that may not be suitable for use with plaster of Paris. Some types of plastic can react with the gypsum in the plaster and cause it to stick to the mold or even melt the mold itself.
  • Mold Release: Since candy molds are designed for making edible treats, they often have intricate details and designs that can make it difficult to remove hardened plaster from the mold without damaging it. To prevent this from happening, you’ll need to apply a mold release agent before pouring in the plaster.
  • Plaster Consistency: Plaster of Paris should be mixed to a consistency that is similar to pancake batter. If it’s too thick, it may not flow into the mold properly, resulting in air bubbles or incomplete shapes. If it’s too thin, the plaster may not set properly and could crack or break when removed from the mold.
  • Drying Time: Plaster of Paris typically takes several hours to dry completely. It’s important to let the plaster dry completely before attempting to remove it from the mold. Rushing this process could result in damaged or incomplete shapes.

Conclusion:
In summary, candy molds can be used for plaster of Paris, but it’s important to choose the right type of mold material and apply a mold release agent before pouring in the plaster. Additionally, you’ll need to mix the plaster to a proper consistency and allow it to dry completely before removing it from the mold. With these considerations in mind, you can create unique and interesting shapes using candy molds and plaster of Paris for your next DIY project!