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.
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.
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.
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