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.

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Published: August 26, 2014 at 6:45 am

All illustrations by Alan Batley

1

Find a clear print. Press a circular 'collar' around it made from cardboard or a section of plastic bottle.

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2

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

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3

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

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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.

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