M's belly cast

This was the first belly cast I did.  This mama was very liberal about being naked, so it made for an easy casting. 

When creating a cast, the mama must be pretty exposed.  Mamas can tape up their nipples, if desired.  Some casts may show the shape of the areola.  It all depends upon the cast and the woman. 

Once the mama is taped up, or not, a lubricant must be applied to the area that is to be cast.  Petroleum jelly may be used, or something similar.  If there is no lubricant, the cast will adhere to the body. 

Plaster strips will then be wet and applied to the body, one at a time.  They harden relatively quickly, so the caster must move pretty quickly. 

Once the last strip has been applied it is usually hard enough underneath to come off the mama.  The cast should be placed in an area where it will not be subject to crumbs, curious little hands or paws.  It takes about 24 hours for it to completely harden. 

Then, it is ready for sanding, prepping and decorating, if one so chooses. 

A belly cast is a beautifully unique way to mark such a wonderful time in a woman's life.  Casts can be decorated in gold leaf and embellished in jewels.  They can be painted to reflect the spirit of an individual or a home.  Families can sit together and decorate the cast together with hand prints, written messages to baby or even decoupaged with family photos.

It's your belly cast...the possibilities are endless!

Monkey Face

A client has a monkey-themed nursery and wanted her belly cast painted to reflect that.  She saw a picture of a cast painted like this one on a Proudbody insert.  So, here is my rendition.  I used Gesso to prime the cast.  Then I used acrylic paints.  I finished the entire piece off with two coats of a spray acrylic sealer . 

Belly Casting

Belly casting is a beautiful and creative way to honor your pregnancy.  It is relatively quick - under an hour and can be done in the privacy of your own home.  The cast can be left white or painted to reflect the family's personality.  The one pictured here was done just yesterday for a client.  I will be painting it for her next week.  It takes 24 hours to completely dry.  Then it will be sanded, primed, painted and sealed.  This particular client is doing a monkey-themed room for her little one.  This cast will become a monkey's face.  I will post pictures when it is completed. 
As a part of my regular doula package a belly cast is included.  For more information, please contact me.