Lifecasting Process

What Is Lifecasting? (A.K.A. Bodycasting)

Photographs can capture a 2-Dimensional moment in time, but a Lifecast captures the body at a moment in time in 3-Dimentions.

The moulding process picks up the skin texture and will give you an exact 3D replica of a body part clearly showing each line, each wrinkle and fold of the skin which is unique to each individual.

The mould is then filled with a special high quality plaster and this is what forms your final cast producing an amazing piece of art which can be finished in many different ways or left in its natural plaster state.

As with the finishes there are many different way to display your Lifecast, it can be hung on a wall either as it is, framed or mounted on a plaque which can be wall hung or laid flat. Larger pieces lend themselves to being mounted on a stand for Floor or shelf display.

It is the variation in finish and mounting of a lifecast that determine the final cost. Prices quoted are for making the mould and producing a plaster cast, after that the choice is yours. If you want the cast without finishes being applied and un-mounted the quoted price is what you pay.
I never produce Lifecasts using plaster bandages applied directly to the skin as the results only give a general size and shape with little or no skin detail. I only use high quality Alginate or Skin Safe Silicones to take the initial mould directly from the client.

The Lifecast itself can be made in Plaster, Coloured Resins, Cold Cast Metal Resin and Acrylic Resin all of which have different properties that lend them to different finishing and display options.

Several factors determine the exact method and materials used. These factors include what body part is being reproduced and where or how the final cast will be used or displayed, but the general procedure is similar in all cases

Making a Basic Plaster Lifecast.

Step 1: Mould Making
The mould or impression is taken directly from a body or body part. This mould picks up the skin texture and captures an exact 3D replica of the body part, clearly showing each line, wrinkle and fold of the skin making every Lifecast unique and personal.

Step 2: Plaster Casting
A special high quality plaster is then poured into this mould and allowed to set for up to 24 hours before being de-moulded leaving an exact plaster replica of the original body part.

Step 3: Drying
The plaster cast then has to be allowed to dry and harden properly before any finishing can be done. This drying process can take several weeks to complete depending on air temperature type and thickness of the plaster.

Step 4: Finishing
Only when the plaster is completely dry can work be started on any finishing that may be required. We are often asked for a smooth finish leaving only important skin detail, which allows the final cast to be highly polished producing a more artistic and tactile lifecast or we may be asked to do minor modifications to the overall shape of a cast.
Different finishes can be applied to a plaster cast, these include simply applying a clear sealer or wax to leave the natural plaster look or you could opt for a metal loaded wax finish that simulates bronze, gold or silver. Paint finishes can be applied which includes colours, textures and stone effects.

Step 5: Displaying Your Lifecast
There are many different way to finish and display your Lifecast, it can be hung on a wall just as it is. Smaller pieces can be framed or mounted on a plaque which can be wall hung or laid flat. Larger pieces lend themselves to being mounted on a stand for floor or shelf display.

It is these variations in materials, finishing and mounting of a lifecast that plays a large part in determine the final cost of you Lifecast.

And Finally:
Lifecasting is an art form, each piece is unique; it’s not a science or a manufacturing process, each piece is made and finished by hand and as such some minor imperfections will inevitably exist in the final piece. Having said that, a great deal of care is taken to ensure that our Lifecast are of a very highest standard.