General FAQ
Handcastings
1. What are the castings made from?
Hand casting is a very safe process. The mold is made from a non-toxic dental grade alginate. The process is completely safe, even for infants.
2. How long will it take to make the mold?
After the mold mix is made, the hand or hands are placed inside and takes about a one-two minutes to set. The process is quick and painless.
3. Why does it take 4 weeks after the mold is taken to get the finished product?
After the mold is made, a strong plaster is poured inside. It takes a few days to weeks (depending on temperature and humidity) to dry and then the work needs to be done to perfect each piece.
4. Can many several castings be made from the same mold?
No each mold only makes one casting. Since the mold needs to be carefully peeled away from the plaster, only one casting can be made per mold.
Bellycastings
1. How long does a pregnancy belly casting session take?
This is a more involved casting. It involves placing plaster bandages on the belly. Be sure to wear "work clothes" that you wouldn't mind being damaged as the plaster can get messy. Depending on the size of the cast, the time can vary. It usually takes 30-45min. to complete a pregnancy belly casting.
2. When is the best time to cast a pregnant belly?
The nicest castings are done when you are at your fullest to really capture the pregnancy. I recommend between 32-36 weeks. However, some clients choose to cast earlier or several times during pregnancy.
3. Does it take 4 weeks to get a pregnancy belly casting in it's finished form?
Yes, even though the process is different, much work needs to go into the completion of the final product.
4. I want to get a pregnancy belly casting, but just can't afford it. What can I do?
Send me an email! On many occasions I am looking for a pregnant model to try out a new pose or medium. If you'd be willing to work with me, then we could work out a deal.
Infant/Terminal Illness FAQ
1. Is the process safe for my infant?
Yes. The alginate is non-toxic and completely harmless.
2. What if my infant or child moves?
The alginate sets quick and should capture your childs hand. If, in the rare occassion it doesn't, I will call you back for another casting free of charge.
3. When is the best time to cast my infants hand and/or foot? The best time to cast your infants hand and/or foot is from birth - 6 months. It is easiest to cast them when they are napping and they sleep most at this age. Casting older infants/toddlers is not recommended as they move to much. The best way to cast an older infant/toddler is to cast a holding hand cast with one or both parents or an older sibling.
4. Will you cast the hand of a terminally ill family member? If they were holding another family members hand?
Yes. This is possible. We can make arrangements to have the hand casted. Keep in mind, only one plaster cast can be made from each mold, so know exactly how many you would want.
