Is Pottery Plaster the Same as Plaster of Paris?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re interested in pottery or have some experience in the field, you may have heard of “pottery plaster” and “plaster of Paris.” But are they the same thing? In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between these two materials.

What is Plaster of Paris?

Plaster of Paris is a type of gypsum plaster that is commonly used for crafting and creating molds. It’s made by heating gypsum, a soft mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate, to remove the water content. Once it’s heated and dried, it can be mixed with water to create a paste that hardens quickly.

What is Pottery Plaster?

Pottery plaster is also made from gypsum, but it’s a different type of plaster than Plaster of Paris. It’s a harder and denser material that’s specifically designed for use in pottery making.

Unlike Plaster of Paris, pottery plaster doesn’t harden as quickly when mixed with water. This gives potters more time to work with the material before it sets.

How are They Different?

The main difference between plaster of Paris and pottery plaster is their composition. Pottery plaster has a higher density and hardness than Plaster of Paris, which makes it ideal for creating molds and casts for pottery making.

Another key difference between these two materials is their setting time. While Plaster of Paris sets quickly once mixed with water, pottery plaster takes longer to set. This extended setting time allows potters more time to work with the material before it hardens completely.

Can They Be Used Interchangeably?

While both materials are made from gypsum, they aren’t interchangeable when it comes to pottery making. Pottery plaster has specific properties that make it ideal for use in creating molds for pottery making. Using Plaster of Paris instead of pottery plaster could result in a weaker mold that’s more prone to breaking or cracking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pottery plaster and Plaster of Paris are not the same thing. Pottery plaster has a higher density and hardness than Plaster of Paris, making it ideal for creating molds for pottery making.

While both materials are made from gypsum, they have different properties that make them suitable for different uses. If you’re interested in pottery making, it’s important to use the right type of plaster to ensure the best results.