This course is a hands-on introduction to creating alginate moulds for casting in Jesmonite. Whether you want to realise a small sculpture, cast a found object or take an impression of your hands or feet, this workshop will guide you through the process of making a detailed waste mould using alginate. Alginate is a safe, fast-setting material that captures fine details, making it ideal for life casting and small-scale sculptural projects (no larger than 15cm please).

You will learn how to mix and apply alginate, prepare objects for moulding and create a one-off cast by pouring Jesmonite into the mould. Once your cast is set, you will refine, finish and add colour to enhance the final piece. This course provides a great introduction to mould-making and casting, giving you the foundational skills to explore further creative projects.

During the course, you will be introduced to the basic principles of alginate moulding and casting. You will learn the correct mixing, application and use of alginate. There will be a demonstration on how to prepare objects for moulding and ensure successful casting. You will explore finishing techniques, including surface refinement and colouring.

By the end of this course, you will:

• Understand the properties and uses of alginate in mould-making
• Be able to create a waste mould from a simple object, body part or small sculpture
• Successfully cast an object in Jesmonite
• Apply basic finishing techniques to complete and personalise your sculpture

This course is ideal for beginners or those looking to expand their skills in mould-making and casting. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your creativity, an object/sculpture and a willingness to experiment!

Included

On this course the College will supply most of the materials, including alginate, Jesmonite, clay, acrylic paints and Vaseline.

What students need to bring

• An object or small sculpture – please note the tutor will contact you prior to the course to review the object or small sculpture you are intending to cast. (If you book last minute, please make sure the bookings office advises the tutor of your email address so the tutor can contact you to discuss your object prior the course starting.)
• Paintbrushes to paint your mould

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes). Possible equipment restrictions in tutor absence.

Daily Timetable

Course teaching: 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive: 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching: 11am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching: 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions