https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/cement-or-plaster-of-paris-candle-holder • Posted by Bella Nunn
Turn an old rice packet into a sculptural candle holder, or even a plant pot. You can use either Plaster of Paris or cement for this tutorial. In the images there are examples of white Plaster of Paris pots- the larger one was made from a pasta packet and an old tin, to create a plant pot. The Plaster of Paris is easier to use than cement, so I would recommend this for beginners, but you can use whichever is available to you.
Turn an old rice packet into a sculptural candle holder, or even a plant pot. You can use either Plaster of Paris or cement for this tutorial. In the images there are examples of white Plaster of Paris pots- the larger one was made from a pasta packet and an old tin, to create a plant pot. The Plaster of Paris is easier to use than cement, so I would recommend this for beginners, but you can use whichever is available to you.
Equipment: You can use cement or Plaster of Paris. You can lay newspaper onto your work surface as it can get messy. You will also need a tea light or a similar candle.
Use around 1-1.5kg of cement, or similar for Plaster of Paris and add to a container. You can add extra cement as you mix it. If possible, wear a dust mask, mix it outside or mix it at arms length.
Mix the cement: Add 1 part cold water to 2 parts cement. It's the same ratio with plaster. Add the water a little at a time and keep mixing. Mix for around 10 minutes, until it becomes a smooth paste.
Get your rice bag ready, making sure it can sit flat on the surface.
Pour in your mixture, gently moving the bag from side-to-side to level it out and get rid of any air bubbles. If there is excess water on top of the mixture, you can soak it up with some tissue.
Before the cement sets, tie some string around the bag, so that once it dries it will keep this shape.
Once the mixture is beginning to set, but is still workable, gently push your tea light into the cement. Then leave it to dry for 24-48hrs for cement, or 24hrs for Plaster of Paris.
Once it's dry, cut the rice bag away from it. Smooth any edges with a damp cloth.
Tie some sting or ribbon around it and now it is complete.