What Does Plaster of Paris Not Stick To?

By Michael Ferguson

Plaster of Paris is a versatile material that can be used for various purposes like creating sculptures, molds, and casts. It is made from gypsum powder and water, which when mixed together form a paste that hardens quickly.

However, not all surfaces are suitable for plaster of Paris to adhere to. In this article, we will explore what plaster of Paris does not stick to.

What Is Plaster of Paris?

Plaster of Paris is a white powder that hardens into a solid material when mixed with water. It is created by heating gypsum rock at high temperatures until it becomes a fine powder. The resulting powder is then mixed with water to form a paste that can be molded into various shapes.

What Does Plaster of Paris Not Stick To?

Plaster of Paris does not stick well to surfaces that are porous or have a low surface energy. Some common materials that plaster of Paris does not stick to include:

  • Wax or oil-based surfaces – Plaster of Paris will not adhere well to surfaces coated with wax or oil-based substances as they repel water. This includes surfaces like plastic, vinyl, and silicone.
  • Metal surfaces – Plaster of Paris may not stick well to metal surfaces as they are often non-porous and have low surface energy.
  • Smooth or glossy surfaces – Surfaces that are smooth or glossy do not provide enough texture for the plaster to grip onto. This includes materials like glass and ceramics.

Prepping Surfaces for Plaster of Paris

To ensure that plaster of Paris adheres well to the surface you want to use it on, proper preparation is key. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Clean the surface thoroughly – Make sure the surface is free from any dirt, dust, or debris. Use a damp cloth to wipe it down or a brush to scrub off any stubborn stains.
  • Apply a primer – If you’re working with a surface that is non-porous or has low surface energy, consider applying a primer.

    This will help the plaster adhere better to the surface.

  • Add texture – If the surface is too smooth or glossy, you can add some texture by sanding it down or using a rough cloth to create some friction. This will help the plaster grip onto the surface better.

Conclusion

Plaster of Paris is an excellent material for creating molds, casts, and sculptures. However, it does not stick well to all surfaces.

Surfaces that are porous, wax or oil-based, metal, smooth or glossy may not provide enough grip for the plaster to adhere properly. By following proper preparation techniques like cleaning and priming surfaces and adding texture where needed, you can ensure that your plaster of Paris projects turn out well.