preparing to start my first hypertufa project

lisa2004

13 years ago

This is something I've wanted to do since I discovered this forum years ago. I finally bought the material and I'm eager to get going. My biggest area of confusion relates to choosing a mold. I see there are inside molds and outside ones. It also seems that some people use an inside AND outside simultaneously...does anyone have pics? What is the best way to start? I want to make a small planter to start, but then a few large ones. I also want to try to make a leaf impression eventually.

For planters I prefer the more natural, rough look (like the pics on the main 'hypertufa' page), than the very smooth look.

This post was edited by lisa2004 on Thu, Apr 11, 13 at 15:11

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Comments (3)

Mike Larkin
13 years ago
Go to the Dollar store.
Find a large bowl. Like the ones for Chips. Start Small.
Spay the inside of the bowl with PAM

Then mix and apply to the inside

Show us pictures

Here is a link that might be useful: my blog
Kim The Hypertufa Gardener
13 years ago
I have had the best luck with using plastic to line the mold. Use anything with at least a slightly larger top then bottom. I put the bag inside, then plop the tufa mix in and build up the sides. Press it in tightly. But as you work it, pull up on the plastic just slightly so no "folds" develop in the sides. If they do, the plastic still pulls off when unmolding ( and sometimes creates a real rock-like appearance.) Lost 2 large "turkey roaster" pan tufas because the spray release didn't release! It hurt! They were the coolest shape. I am selling some at our annual plant sale fund raiser for our garden club. Hope they sell.
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lisa2004
Original Author
13 years ago
Ok, today's the day! I think I'm going to try an inside and outside mold. The inside sounds easier but I'm not sure how you would get a natural "rock" look, vs the smooth look (which I don't really like).