Question 1

Is this plaster stronger than plaster of paris? can it be mixed with pva for increased strength? thank you!

Accepted Answer

Hi, Yes this plaster is stronger than traditional plaster of paris. It dries much harder which if you are making thinner parts i.e. thin rocks as opposed to thick ones then it is less likely to break. You still have to treat it gently if removing from a mould. As with all plasters, you can add pva to make it stronger, but I've never had the need too.
If you have plaster of paris you could try adding pva to that first and see how you get on. Cystacal R is more expensive, if I remember right.
Best of luck bud.

Question 2

Does anyone know is this powder form or a premix? Thank you!

Accepted Answer

It's powder form. It's a fine plaster powder which is better than Plaster of Paris, especially if you want to make thin highly detailed moulds etc. Mixing is easy: Put half cup of water and gently add amounts of plaster to water; don't mix yet. Keep adding  plaster until it no longer sinks into the water and sits on top and starts to look a bit like cracking would then stir it in. This will mix well and give time for the pour. Give it a little gentle shake and it will fill the mould and set beautifully. I use it all the time and it's excellent stuff.

Question 3

does this work well as a plaster for making fine detailed press mould for clay

Accepted Answer

It’s great sets rock hard in an hour I used it to make a fine detail Wall Corbel out of a latex  mould great no air bubbles and drys really smooth and shiny

Question 4

Would this product be suitable for candle vessels if sealed? Thanks

Accepted Answer

I have successfully made vessels for candles with this material. Used H Seal to seal them. Lovely and easy to colour too as it’s really white. Good luck x

Brand	British Gypsum
Model Number	CRY00710

Crystacal R Plaster, Hard White Casting Plaster in Sealed Bucket 5kg

Description

Specifications

Common Questions