Memory Frame for Plaster Casts & Photo

This frame has space for two plaster casts – for example, baby feet and hands – as well as a 10x15 cm photo and can be hung or stood up as desired. The photo is inserted through a narrow slot on the top. To fit well, its height should be slightly trimmed beforehand. The frame has the following dimensions: 254mm x 220mm x 67mm (hxwxd).

The frame consists of two parts: an inner part with cutouts for the casts and the photo, and an outer frame that slides over the inner one. This covers the photo slot. The outer frame can optionally be secured with small round magnets or – for a fixed solution – with hot glue. On the back, there are holes for hanging on all four sides, so it can be hung as needed.

An acrylic glass plate can be used to protect the casts and the photo. An A4 acrylic glass is well-suited for this: the width already fits, only the height needs to be adjusted.

The frame is suitable both as a personal keepsake and as a gift for birth, baptism, or other special occasions.

Instructions

1. Glue in magnets (optional):
   If you wish for a magnetic attachment of the outer frame, glue small round magnets with suitable adhesive into the designated holes.
2. Cut acrylic glass:
   Cut an A4 acrylic glass plate to the correct height so it fits into the frame. The width is already correct.
3. Create negative impression with alginate:
   Mix alginate according to instructions and create an impression – e.g., of a hand or foot. Make sure the impression is not too deep (max. 4–5 cm) as the frame's depth is limited. A cardboard cup up to 0.5 l volume is suitable as a mold.
4. Pour plaster cast:
   Once the alginate is firm, fill the negative impression with casting plaster and let it fully harden.
5. Demold and clean cast:
   Carefully remove the finished cast from the alginate and clean it of any residues.
6. Paint (optional):
   If desired, you can now paint the casts – e.g., with gold paint. Cover the bottom with painter's tape beforehand so it adheres well to the frame later.
7. Glue in casts:
   Glue the casts into the designated cutouts in the frame with suitable adhesive (e.g., superglue). Align them beforehand and check that they do not protrude beyond the frame.
8. Fill frame base with fluid plaster:
   Pour fluid plaster into the frame base to create a level surface and conceal the edges of the casts.
9. Finish and enjoy:
   Insert the photo and acrylic glass, attach the outer frame – and give the finished keepsake as a gift or keep it as a loving memento.

Required Materials

• Acrylic glass (A4) – as cover, cut to height
• Alginate – for creating the negative impression
• Casting plaster
• Cardboard cup (up to 0.5 l) – as a mold for alginate
• Round magnets 5x1 (optional) – for attaching the outer frame
• Round magnets 5x3 (optional) – for attaching the inner frame
• Hot glue (optional) – for permanent attachment of the outer frame
• Superglue – for fixing the plaster casts in the frame
• Varnish (optional) – for finishing the casts (e.g., gold varnish)
• Painter's tape – for masking the bottom when painting
• Photo (10x15 cm)
• Utility knife – for cutting the acrylic glass