Casting babies is easy !!! Casting pre-toddlers – Tricky sometimes. Casting toddlers – bribery ALWAYS works ! Remember though, kiddies smell fear, so be calm around them.
It is a bit daunting if you have not done this before, BUT… as I tell all our clients, “It’s not rocket science… Relax and trust the instructions”. Everything has been worked out in detail to make this as easy as possible. You are also welcome to call us directly for tips and advise, in fact, we recommend it.
We’ll try to cover some of the questions people typical ask …. and give some advise that we typically give.
Our stock is received weekly and we take a lot of care to preserve the freshness of of the powders. We do not have expiry dates, but will cannot accept any responsibility for kits over 2 months from purchase date. Please ensure they are stored in a cool, preferably dark place.
We do give full instructions, which are periodically adjusted. A few things, though
- Call Carl 073 587 6870 BEFORE you start. I will explain everything in detail. We ask this a few times, so there is no excuse.
- Use a STICK BLENDER (Long stick with a blade at the bottom). We strongly recommend this because it reaches the bottom of the bucket.
- Use COLD water. Bore water, Filter water, and dam water will make the mould material set too quickly. Please get water from the shop.
Our holding compound sets in 3 minutes. The beauty of the material we selected, is that as it starts setting, and the mould starts setting, it becomes difficult for the hand or foot to move. Our holding compound sets in 3 minutes.
It is also colour coded, so that you know at which stage of the setting process it is. Each minute, will see a change of colour. This helps to plan and time the mould making process.
The casting material remains flexible even when it’s set, so, all that’s needed is one very gentle pull and your baby’s foot is free (heel first).
Casting feet for the little one’s is pretty challenging. They tend to lift their toes and arch the foot.
I normally deal with this by holding the ankle firmly, with my thumb on the top of the foot.
It gives a degree of control to keep the foot immersed. Once the moulding material starts to set, I will move the container with the foot.
If the baby is fussing, they usually do so in spurts of a few minutes. Wait until he /she takes a breath, and quickly remove the foot.
Ideally there should be no residue on the foot for a clean mould.
We don’t! We just make sure they’re comfortable and take the casts as quickly as possible!
As the mould sets, the little one’s limb becomes locked in, making movement harder, and they usually give up trying.
The best is to put the little one on someone’s knee facing a loud tv, or somebody keeping the attention.
The arm you need should hang slightly to the back. – Out of sight – Out of mind.
Instead of baby grows, use socks which allow easier access to your baby’s feet.
If we are casting your baby’s hands, we recommend feeding him/her during the process since we often receive a better physical pose.
Also, bringing along a favourite toy can be useful as a distraction or a means for relaxation for your baby.
You could also rub a little baby oil on the hand or foot to facilitate removal and prevent bubbles.
Depending on the baby or child, you could train him/ her over a few days by placing the hand in a glass of cold water. After a while this will seem normal and he / she will be less curious.
Any age you like. Our youngest so far was 520g, born at 5 months!
All of the materials that come in direct contact with your skin are non-allergenic. Often though, we suggest a barrier of baby cream or baby oil.
The materials have been very specifically selected to be safe for neo-natal. It has a seaweed base, and is perfectly natural.
Remember I developed this using my own kiddies as guinee-pigs, and they are now almost grown up, without any side effects. 🙂
It captures all your skin’s details, including fingerprints, hair follicles, wrinkles, etc.
Feel free to contact us to ask any other questions, or call directly 073 587 6870.
Casting is fun and you should invite a friend or partner along to watch, take photos and help decide on a pose.
All of the materials that come in direct contact with your skin are non-allergenic.