Materials:

• Sand (damp, not dry)
• Cardboard box or shallow tray
• Object to press (shoe, shell, leaf, animal track, etc.)
• Plaster of Paris
• Water
• Mixing bucket
• Mixing stick (old spoon or paint stick works)
• Measuring cup
• Old newspaper or plastic to cover work area
• Safety goggles (optional)
• Disposable gloves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cover your work area with newspaper or plastic. Plaster is messy.
2. Fill the cardboard box about halfway with damp sand. The sand should hold its shape when pressed.
3. Press your object into the sand to make a clear print. Then gently lift it out.
4. In your bucket, mix the Plaster of Paris with water. Follow the directions on the package.
5. Stir the mixture well until smooth. Use the mixing stick.
6. Carefully pour the plaster into the sand mold. Fill it slowly.
7. Let the plaster sit for several hours or overnight until it is hard.
8. Once dry, lift the plaster out of the sand. Gently brush off any extra sand.

Safety Notes:

• Do not touch wet plaster with bare hands for too long. It can irritate the skin.
• Do not pour extra plaster down the sink. It can clog the drain. Let it harden first, then throw it away.
• Supervise younger Scouts closely during mixing and pouring.

Variations:

• Use natural objects like leaves or sticks to make nature prints.
• Try making a track mold on a hike. Bring damp sand in a tray, press a track, then pour plaster when back at your meeting place.
• Use this craft during a forensic-themed meeting to make “crime scene” shoe prints.

For more information, see https://scoutermom.com/5744/making-plaster-prints/