Mounting a plaster cast head

message from Rob Graham on 13 May 2004

A friend has a very nice plaster cast mask (one of the Three Graces)
which he wants to mount on a bronze shaft (abut 20mm dia.)on a wooden
base. The mask is about 250mm high and is hollow at the back. I take
it is plaster of paris. We discussed various ways of attaching the
shaft and cross bracing it but weren't sure what would stick metal to
the plaster. Anybody help please. One thought would be to hold the
shaft in place in some way and just fill the cavity with foam.

Rob

BigWallop replied to Rob Graham on 14 May 2004

If the back of the mask is un-glazed and rough then you can get some wet soggy plaster
and dip cotton bandages in it. Then make a couple of wraps around the shaft first
about the same length as the mask, and allow to set off a bit (an hour or so). Then
lay the mask backside up and put the shaft along the length. Dip the bandages in the
soggy plaster and lay them across the shaft and press well down on to the mask.
Around five or six layers should do it. Trim off any excess around the edges once
completely dry and bob should be mothers brothers. One mask stuck tightly to a pole.

Rob Graham replied to BigWallop on 15 May 2004

Thanks guys - plaster is probably best. Cataloy is all very well but
I wouldn't want to get involved with something that is so permanent it
might damage the mask.

Rob

The Natural Philosopher replied to Rob Graham on 13 May 2004

Car body filler.

Grunff replied to The Natural Philosopher on 14 May 2004

Lol. Have you watched My Big Fat Greek Wedding? Windex?

I must admit, it is very useful stuff, and would probably work pretty
well for this.

Archived message: Mounting a plaster cast head (UK D-I-Y House Decoration)