Footprints in the Sand

On beach vacations, sand seems to end up everywhere, especially between the toes. This simple plaster-casting project lets your child capture that sandy barefoot feeling--and a record of his feet.

Choose a site to cast your molds. The moist, hard-packed sand near--but not too near!--the water's edge works best. Have your child firmly press both feet into the sand. The prints should be about 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep. If your child can't press down that hard, he can use his finger to dig down into the print, following its shape. Mix up the plaster, according to the directions on the package, so that it has a thick, creamy consistency. Pour the wet plaster gently into the footprints.

If you want to make hangers, tie a knot about 1/2 inch in from each end of your pieces of string or wire. As the plaster begins to harden, push the knotted ends into the plaster and let dry. After 20 to 25 minutes, gently dig the footprints out of the molds and brush away any excess sand. Set sole-side up in the sun (away from the rising tide) for about an hour to let harden.