Casting & Sculpture in Jesmonite (Sat & Sun, 17 - 18 Oct 2026)

This two day course is an introduction to working with Jesmonite. You will have the opportunity to work hands-on, constructing geometric and curved forms, creating decorative effects using pigment and you will learn how to replicate other materials and textures using Jesmonite. Jesmonite can be used to replicate the appearance and texture of any surface finish, and even the finest of detail. It can mimic the appearance of most materials such as stone, wood, leather and fabric. It is strong and durable, can be pigmented to any colour and used to create decorative surface effects. It is often used as lightweight alternative to stone and concrete. It has become an increasingly popular material widely used by artists, designers and prop-makers. Jesmonite is a brand name for a group of products that have either a gypsum or cementitious base and a water based acrylic resin making it kinder to the environment than others. This two day course will teach you how to use both Jesmonite systems to cast from different types of moulds, how to colour Jesmonite, how to laminate it and how to use it to mimic other materials. Day 1: Introduction to the two different types of Jesmonite before experimentation with mould making techniques using Polypropylene sheets that can be cut, scored and folded to make geometric and curved moulds to cast into. You will learn how to use Jesmonite pigments to create decorative effects such as Terrazzo and marbling and make use of metal powders to produce imitation metal casts. We will finish the day by making a small, simple silicone mould ready for tomorrow and finishing processes such as polishing. Day 2: Using the silicone moulds, we will look at laminating Jesmonite to produce very strong thin castings before progressing onto making larger moulds (either in polypropylene, wood, card or moulds brought from home) to learn to cast hollow objects. In both cases we will be using the cementitious Jesmonite casting system to explore the types of imitation stone finishes. Please note there will be a 1 hour lunch break each day (lunch is not provided) Basic materials are all included. Please note the cost of the course includes 1 kg of jesmonite. Additional jesmonite is available to purchase on the day if required. Open to all levels including beginners. Please wear protective clothing. Health and Safety briefing will be given. Course cost: £295 Course date: Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October 2026 Course times: 10am-1pm & 2pm - 4pm Number of places available: 12 Tutor: Dr. Sarah Fortais Website: www.sarahfortais.com