How Do You Make Plaster of Paris Handprints?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to create a lasting memory of your child’s handprint, plaster of Paris is the perfect medium to use. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make plaster of Paris handprints.

Gather Your Materials

First, gather all the materials you’ll need. You’ll need:

  • Plaster of Paris
  • Water
  • Bowl
  • Measuring cup
  • Spoon or stirring stick
  • Paper towels or rags for clean up
  • A shallow dish or plate to use as a mold for the handprint
  • Vaseline or cooking spray (optional)
  • Preparation:

    Before starting, make sure you have everything ready and within reach. Plaster of Paris sets quickly so you don’t want to be scrambling for things halfway through.

    Prepare the Molding Dish/Plate

    Choose a shallow dish or plate that is big enough to fit your child’s hand comfortably. If you’d like to reuse the dish/plate later, it is advisable to coat it with Vaseline or cooking spray. This will make it easier to remove the plaster once it dries.

    Mixing the Plaster of Paris

    Now that your materials are ready, it’s time to mix the plaster of Paris! Follow these steps:

    1. Measure out one part Plaster of Paris powder and two parts water in your bowl.
    2. Note: It’s important not to add too much water as this will weaken the plaster and result in a poor-quality handprint.

    3. Stir gently with your spoon/stirring stick until there are no lumps left in the mixture.
    4. Note: Don’t over-stir the mixture as this can cause air bubbles to form, which will ruin the final product.

      Making the Handprint

      With your plaster of Paris mixture ready, it’s time to make the handprint!

      1. Pour the plaster of Paris mixture into your shallow dish or plate.
      2. Smooth out the surface of the plaster with your spoon/stirring stick.
      3. Now, press your child’s hand firmly into the plaster, making sure that all parts of their hand are touching the surface and that they don’t move their hand around too much.

      Drying and Finishing

      Congratulations! You’ve successfully made a plaster of Paris handprint.

      Now it’s time to let it dry and finish it up.

      1. Leave the plaster to dry for at least 24 hours in a dry place where it won’t be disturbed.
      2. Once dry, gently remove it from the mold by carefully pulling on one edge or gently tapping on the back of the dish/plate until it pops out.
      3. Note: If you coated your mold with Vaseline/cooking spray, this process should be easier.

      4. If you want to smooth any rough edges or imperfections, use sandpaper or a file to gently shape and smooth them out.

      In Conclusion:

      Making a plaster of Paris handprint is an easy and fun activity that can create lasting memories for you and your child. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to make a beautiful keepsake that will last for years to come.