TEAMYAKIMA Posted January 25, 2020 Share Posted January 25, 2020 Back in the day when I modelled mountains and valleys I remember that there was a 'better quality/stronger' plaster but can't remember it's name or brand - it was 30 years ago anyway so times change. I'm looking for something stronger than standard plaster of paris. And will it be something my 'local' model shop will stock? Gaugemaster? Hobbycraft? Thanks Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gordon s Posted January 25, 2020 Share Posted January 25, 2020 Back in those days, Polyfilla was as good as any, but I can't recall a specific product name. When we've had work done at home, the plasterers have used 'Thistle' plaster. I guess it depends how much you have to do. The best place is probably a builders merchant if it's a bigger job.... https://www.british-gypsum.com/product-range/plaster-products Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
royaloak Posted January 25, 2020 Share Posted January 25, 2020 Modroc? Was it a proper modelling filler or a general building filler? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium TheQ Posted January 25, 2020 RMweb Premium Share Posted January 25, 2020 Just add PVA to any old plaster mix, set as hard as a rock. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
steve W Posted January 25, 2020 Share Posted January 25, 2020 (edited) Dental plaster for high definition rock castings. On the current scene Woodland Scenics 'Lightweight Hydrocal' C1201 is a general purpose modelling plaster and a for a bit of rock carving, they also do one for casting rocks. Both good, but If it's simply terrain covering then I no longer use plaster as they are all too brittle with baseboards banging around in transit. Instead we picked up on an American recipe that works very well and remains somewhat flexible known as 'goop'. Briefly, 50% each 'Sculptamold' or similar cellulose plaster and 'reptile grade' vermiculite (used for incubating reptile eggs), a blob of white PVA and emulsion paint. Mix to with a drop of water to give a stiff spreadable mix. Takes all kinds of scenic treatment, more details if required. ('Modroc' is the plaster bandage stuff) Steve Edited January 25, 2020 by steve W added words 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium ColinK Posted January 25, 2020 RMweb Premium Share Posted January 25, 2020 Have you tried Sculptmold? It’s more like paper machie in texture, but sets quickly, is strong and light. 1 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
TEAMYAKIMA Posted January 25, 2020 Author Share Posted January 25, 2020 2 hours ago, steve W said: Dental plaster for high definition rock castings. On the current scene Woodland Scenics 'Lightweight Hydrocal' C1201 is a general purpose modelling plaster Thanks Steve Ahhh! Dental plaster or hydrocal those names/terms ring a big bell. TBH it's not for rock casting it's for making a flat smooth road so something not too hard as I will need to sand it nice and smooth for the Faller roadway vehicles to run down. Other than Woodland Scenics any other sources of hydrocal/dental plaster? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HSB Posted January 25, 2020 Share Posted January 25, 2020 I use Tetrion for moulding cliffs. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium BR60103 Posted January 26, 2020 RMweb Premium Share Posted January 26, 2020 Hydrocal is said to turn into alabaster when it sets. You could check with your local sculpting shop. One property of Hydrocal is supposed to be no change of volume when it sets, making it good for castings. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
steve W Posted January 26, 2020 Share Posted January 26, 2020 15 hours ago, TEAMYAKIMA said: TBH it's not for rock casting it's for making a flat smooth road so something not too hard as I will need to sand it nice and smooth for the Faller roadway vehicles to run down. Then 'Sculptamold' is probably one of the better options. (EDM Models is one source) It's fibrous texture gives it flexible strength and lightness. When dry it is very easy to sand smooth if neccesary. It also has the advantage that wetting it allows it to be reworked if neccesary e.g. adding the Faller guide wire. I have found plain 'Sculptamold' to drag and be a bit 'sticky' when trying to get a flat surface (possibly being impatient and not waiting for it to partially set first) and this is where adding 30-50% vermiculite with a drop of pva ('goop' mix) has worked to make a better spreading mix that can be sanded smooth when dry. Steve Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
AndyH Posted January 26, 2020 Share Posted January 26, 2020 At work we use herculite plaster, as it is tougher than normal and actually expands a little (which can match casting shrinkage). I have used it to make things I know may be damaged. Problem is it is generally in 25kg bags. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
shipbadger Posted January 26, 2020 Share Posted January 26, 2020 I have used one of the lightweight fillers from the DIY sheds or Screwfix/Tool Station. These are the ones which when you pick up the pot you wonder if there is anything in them. Doesn't add much to the weight of a baseboard. For all these 'plaster' tasks I always add PVA to the mix or brush it on to the surface I'm about to cover. Tony Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now