3 replies to this topic

[smares]

Has anyone tried reinforcing plaster nests? I read on the inter web that plaster can be reinforced by mixing it with white glue. supposedly this makes it stronger, more durable and reduces permeability. I am thinking that if it is less permeable it won't harbor mold as well and will last longer. Thoughts?

[drtrmiller]

You'll need to pay special attention to any ratios and material names to ensure you don't encounter cure inhibition.  Aside from that, most of us don't use hobby plaster (plaster of paris), but instead use gypsum stone or cement formulations like "Hydrostone," which are already very hard and relatively impermeable.

[smares]

So I did some experiments and found that adding a few drops of mod podge does give a more water resistant product buttttt....it takes a long time to cure, around 12 hours or so.  I found another product called water putty that is harder and more water resistant but much more brittle. cures fast too. I'm going to play with the water putty a bit more.

[smares]

Founding chamber made with thin reinforced plaster. the hole in the bottom if for cotton to absorb water from the reservoir. Sits nicely in a 2 oz container.