DIY Network

Plaster Handprints Scrap reveals a new way to display plastered handprints. From "Scrap" episode DSCD-104

Host Scott Petti and his sister Betsy share a new way to display plastered handprints, themed after Hollywood's famed Chinese Theater. He hangs the plaster handprints on the wall in perfect square to create the illusion of a marquee. Then he finished with red velvet drapes and a Chinese paper pagoda.

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	Host Scott Petti applies the hands-on treatment for this fun craft project.
	PDF Download the main template for the Chinese Theatre.
	PDF Download the entry template for the Chinese Theatre.
	PDF Download the towers template for the Chinese Theatre.
	PDF Download the laser-cut file for the project.
	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Plaster Handprints

Project designed by Scott Petti.

Materials:

12 x 12 wooden frames for plaster cast
plaster
foam core (to mount photos)
light and dark grey paint
painting sponge
toothbrush
1/8" Masonite
1/2" plywood
6 wood strips for frame
wood glue
finishing nails
wood paint: Chinese Red, Black and Gold
black matte board (if hand-cutting theatre)

NOTE: All of the PDF files you'll need to complete this fun project, including the laser-cut file promised on-air, are right. Simply click and print!

1. Make a 12 x 12 plaster handprint cast to mimic the cement handprints of the "Walk of Fame." For the cast boxes you will need the following pieces of lumber:
   • Two 1-1/2" x 3/4" x 13-3/8"
     
   • Two 1-1/2" x 3/4" x 11-7/8"
     
   • Plywood bottom: 1/2" x 11-7/8" x 11-7/8"

2. For the third space, add a picture of the cast making, use the same frame but pour the plaster around a stack of foam core to frame the photos.

   Tip: Use petroleum jelly in the wooded frame to make removal of the plaster easier.

3. To give the dried plaster the look of cement start by sponging on a light gray paint and then follow with sponge coats of a darker gray (figure A). Finish by flicking the dark gray point using a toothbrush.

4. For the back of the piece, cut a piece of 1/8" Masonite 53" x 17-1/2" and cut a half-circle edge to the top. Then paint Chinese Red (figure B).

5. For the frame, cut a piece of 1/2" ply to measure 12" x 37-1/2".

6. Cut the wood strips as follows:
   • Two at 3/4" x 1-1/2" x 39" for the long sides
     
   • Two at 3/4" x 1-1/2" x 12" for the ends
     
   • Two at 3/4" x 1" x 12" for the dividers

7. Glue and nail the frame to the plywood and then paint it black and dry brush it with gold highlights.

8. Glue and nail this to the Masonite, leaving 2" of red Masonite edge all around.

9. Place plaster casts into the frame; add glue to the bottom for added security.

10. Add a cutout of the Chinese Theater (figure C) to the top of the Masonite.

11. File is available for download, as a AI (for laser) or PDF (to print and hand-cut). If hand-cutting, use black matt board and the three PDF files. Instructions for printing the pattern:
    • Double click the PDF file to open.

    • Hold the Ctrl_1 (this will made the PDF actual scale).

    • If you need to rotate the image, Shift_Ctrl_+ is clockwise and Shift_Ctrl_- is counterclockwise.

    • Use the little hand to move the picture to line up for printing ( you can also use the slider bar on the right and at the bottom.

    • Hold Ctrl_P (you will get the print window dialogue box).

    • Print Range—click current view.

    • Page Handling/Paper Scaling—set this to "none."

    • In the preview window you will see who the image will print on the page.

    • If you need to align it better, click cancel, use the little hand to reposition and follow the same steps from Ctrl_P.

    • If you want to change the paper size to legal or 11 x 17, Shift_Ctrl_P under the paper size and then select the correct paper.

12. If laser cut, send the AI file to a laser cutting company, then paint finished plex piece black and add gold highlights using a dry brush technique.

13. Assemble theater using glue and add height to the side pieces (figure D) with blocks of scrap wood.

14. When you hang it on a wall, be aware that this will be a heavy piece and will probably require drywall anchors.

RESOURCES :

General Scrapbook Supplies and Tools
EK Success
Website: www.eksuccess.com

Specialty Paper
Mimio The Artistry of Paper
Website: www.mimiopapers.com