Learn all about my body casting process! Whether you are wanting to see what it would be like to get cast by me, or are not local and want to try and cast yourself, this video and blog post is intended to be an informative tutorial on vulva casting. The first of its kind.
When I first started learning how to cast vulvas I quickly discovered that there were little to no resources for me to lean on. I truly had to discover how to create a process that worked for me all on my own. I finally feel like I am in a place to share my findings with the world. I saw a need for quality instruction on body casting, specifically vulva casting. So this is me fulfilling that need.
.
The adults in this video and photo gallery are aware of it's creation and have provided me with clear and explicit consent for their use.
Materials Needed:
Plaster Bandage: https://a.co/d/1qamGWa
Step 1: Setting Up Space
My first step in a casting session is to clean and organize my space. Once we start casting, you have to be ready to act fairly quickly as the alginate can cure relatively fast. I will start by placing a large canvas drop cloth down as a base. I then layer on top of it some comfy blankets and cover it all with a disposable plastic drop cloth. I also provide a pillow that has an old t shirt as a cover (things can get messy and alginate does not come out of fabric).
I then will gather my materials, and start preparing the plaster bandage strips, cutting about 3-4 strips for each cast I plan on taking.
I then will fill one bucket with ice cold water to mix with the alginate, and one bucket of room temp water to use for dipping the plaster bandage into.
After I am all set up, I will inform my client about the casting process, and ensure I have clear and enthusiastic consent. I will use a mold release (Vaseline or vegetable shorting) if necessary (i.e. longer pubic hair).
Step 2: Mixing the Alginate
Alginate comes with instructions on the best ways to mix it with water. I personally like using an immersion blender. It's recommended that you measure out 1 parts alginate to 1 part cold water. However, I eyeball this, and wait until I see a 'goldilocks' consistency. This is something that can only be taught through experience. I always wear gloves whenever handling material that will come in direct contact with my clients vulva.
Step 3: Applying the Alginate to the Vulva
Once you have mixed the alginate and it is no longer super watery, but has the consistency of a loose Jell-O, it is time for me to act quickly and pour the alginate over the vulva in order to cast it. I apply the alginate generously. I then will agitate the material slightly to help ensure a clean cast, releasing any possible air bubbles.
Step 4: Placing Plaster Bandage
After the alginate is poured onto the vulva, I will place plaster bandages on top of the cast to give it strength and help ensure it stays in place long enough to cure. The first strip goes on dry, the following strips will be dipped in water first, and then applied.
Step 4: Waiting for Vulva Cast to Cure
It is at this stage that we will wait for our cast to cure so we can successfully remove it. The time it takes will vary depending on room temperate, alginate temperature and humidity. Generally it will take about 5-15 minutes.
Step 5: Removing Vulva Cast
Once The alginate no longer is mailable to touch I know it is ready to be removed. I will do so gently, as to keep the cast in one piece, wiggling it to help with releasing.
Step 6: Turning Negative Cast into Positive Vulva Sculpture
The alginate impression is a 'negative' of your body. I then will work to transform this cast into a positive sculpture that looks like your vulva. I do this using a combination of clay and plaster, but this process will vary depending on what casting medium you choose.
Medium Options (not a complete list)
Plaster
Resin
Silicone
Vulva Sculpture Examples:
The following are client and personal vulva casting examples of the finished product.
