Plaster

Properties of Plaster and Handmade Products

Cast pieces of plaster are made by hand. Imperfections and uneven surfaces are a part of this process. These techniques are intentional and are used to duplicate the original pieces that are used for templates or inspiration.  They are not intended to be perfectly smooth, and each will very slightly from the other - just as the originals do.  These are not the plastic-y medallions that can be found at big-box stores.

Special care must be used handling and installing these products. Although plaster can be painted, stained, and drilled like wood, it is not as hard and can be easily cracked, broken or chipped if too much pressure is applied. 

Recommended Installation for Plaster Ceiling Medallions:

Place the medallion flat on a padded surface and pre-drill / slightly countersink 3 holes for sheet rock screws in an inconspicuous place.  Liberally coat the flattest part of the back surface with a contractor's all-purpose adhesive.  Make sure the ceiling is free and clear of all dust, dirt, etc.  The medallion can then be lifted and installed in place, taking care not to apply too much pressure or tighten the sheet rock screws too tightly.  Wipe away any excess adhesive that may bulge from the rim of the medallion. Do not worry that the medallion may not sit completely flat against the surface. Once the adhesive is dry, these gaps can be filled with sheet rock compound or caulk. The compound should also be used to cover the heads of the countersunk screws. Lightly sand down the patches as desired. After priming, the medallion is ready to paint just as any other plaster or sheet rock surface would be painted.

For those serious about preserving the integrity of their historic home, or adding true quality to their new construction, plastic can never take the place of honest plaster. Our hand-cast, hand-carved medallions can be your at the most competitive prices to be found for such a product that is truely becomming a lost art.