How It's Done:
All materials are safe for both mother and baby. There is usually one sitting to build the first “shell” of the cast, although a second sitting may be necessary. The first sitting takes two to three hours. This can be challenging for a woman in her third trimester of pregnancy especially since she may have to stand for a few minutes while the casting material is placed on the underside of her belly.Cool water to drink and treats like chocolates or cookies are provided, but it is wise for women to bring their favorite helpful snacks - like crackers or fruits to help them stay comfortable.
Belly casting is messy so it is best to wear casual clothing because clothes will get chalky during this process. Usually the residue will wash out in the laundry. In addition to getting messy- pants, leotards and underwear will get soaked so having a dry change of clothes to wear home is important. It is also necessary to bring a small personal jar of petroleum jelly. All areas to be cast must be coated with petroleum jelly. The casting material hardens relatively quickly, but it must be laid meticulously and rubbed to release air bubbles and to allow the casting paste to cure. Once the shell is removed from the woman’s body, it is quite frail at this stage. Several additional layers will be added but the mother’s presence is no longer necessary. A warm shower is available and usually desired.
Belly casting is messy so it is best to wear casual clothing because clothes will get chalky during this process. Usually the residue will wash out in the laundry. In addition to getting messy- pants, leotards and underwear will get soaked so having a dry change of clothes to wear home is important. It is also necessary to bring a small personal jar of petroleum jelly. All areas to be cast must be coated with petroleum jelly. The casting material hardens relatively quickly, but it must be laid meticulously and rubbed to release air bubbles and to allow the casting paste to cure. Once the shell is removed from the woman’s body, it is quite frail at this stage. Several additional layers will be added but the mother’s presence is no longer necessary. A warm shower is available and usually desired.
The belly cast is then prepared for the baby’s portrait. It is reinforced, primed and a support rod is mounted to the backside. When the baby is born photographs and stories are shared and the surprise portrait is painted in oils. The time frame for this varies according to the artists schedule but drying time between layers is necessary for all oil paintings. When the painting is finished it must be thoroughly dried. This may take several days before it can be glazed and dusted with shimmer. Some pieces may include details such as glass gems, which are additional options.
Every belly cast is signed and the baby’s birth information including his or her weight, height and time of birth are documented on the inside of the cast.
Every belly cast is signed and the baby’s birth information including his or her weight, height and time of birth are documented on the inside of the cast.
