~~~What Is Sandcasting And How Is It Done?~~~
This is a picture taken of my "studio" - a picnic table in our backyard J!
These "blobs" are direct impressions of fresh individual leaves and blossoms from the artist's garden, using a fine cement mixture (without aggregate). This process is called sandcasting, because a sand bed is used to hold the form and shape of the leaf/blossom while the cement cures.The cast piece is cleaned of the remains of the leaf, the edges are filed/shaped if necessary, and is then left to cure for several days or weeks. It is handpainted in detail, using many shades and layers of colors in acrylic or latex paint, then coated with an acrylic seal and cure product, the same that is used for sealing outdoor patios. Except for the largest castings, most pieces have aluminum hangers cast into the back so they can be hung on a fence or a wall.
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I developed this type of casting when I acquired some of these Splitleaf Philodendron leaves (I don't pass up any leaves - sometimes I get them and THEN have to figure out how to work with them!). I knew I couldn't cast them my usual way, they would be way too delicate. We coined a name for them......Fossils! These particular Fossils are cast in a shallow bowl shape with copper fittings on the undersides. They are then placed on copper pipes to use as birdbaths/feeders. Cricket (one of our cats) is in the picture for size reference.
A few more birdbath styles
Another fossil~ a hanging plaque
Have fun with FUN~GI!
Contact me! www.nancis_creative_castings@yahoo.com 419-708-8414
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