Jeff Childs uses Plaster Molds to create Ornamental Plaster Ceiling Designs

I wanted to create a specialty box for my girlfriend for Christmas. Something I did that had "my" signature on it. So I perused the thrift store and low and behold, I found the perfect wooden box for just $7.00

Wooden Box Before

With outdated toll painting on it, I gave it a quick coating of primer and let it dry.
Apply Raised Plaster Stencil

I then added one of our Raised Plaster Stencils using joint compound to create a raised design on the top and sides. Choose your favorite! Even a simple vine design can be repeated to create a very ornate background for plaster molds.
Apply Cast Plaster Ornaments

To add further dimension and detail, I cast two plaster ornaments from our Plaster Molds and adhered them to the top using common joint compound as the glue.

I let the whole thing dry and then painted the inside and outside with gold metallic paint. Let it dry.
Corbel

I mixed dark brown craft paint with translucent wall glaze and brushed it over the entire surface to bring out the detail of the added designs.
Wipe color wash

I used an old terry towel to wipe off the excess. Allowing the color to remain in the recesses really shows off the detailing in the plaster stenciling and cast plaster pieces.

A couple of coats of varnish and Wha La! I have a gorgeous, hand done gift box that my girlfriend will treasure because I created it especially for her! It's unique, it's something no one else will ever have and it's hand done especially with her in mind. Who wouldn't love that?
An Elegant Christmas Gift

Remember that the stencils and molds that you purchase for your hand made gifts, can then be used to decorate your walls and cabinetry or furniture in beautiful ways.