How to make a print cast
Making casts of animal prints is fun for children and an interesting way to collect evidence of the wildlife visiting your patch.

Published: August 26, 2014 at 7:45 am
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All illustrations by Alan Batley
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1
Find a clear print. Press a circular 'collar' around it made from cardboard or a section of plastic bottle.

2
Mix some plaster of Paris to the consistency of pancake batter. Let the air bubbles rise.

3
Pour the mix carefully over the print. Fill the collar to 10mm above the highest point, and leave for 30 minutes.

4
Prise up the cast (dig away the soil around it to help). Allow it to set firmly, then you can wash and paint it.

Authors

Sarah McPhersonFeatures editor, BBC Wildlife Magazine
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