Sand-cast Bass

Total Time Needed:: Weekend Projects

There'll be no lamenting about the one that got away in this fish story. Cast right on the beach from plaster and assorted found treasures, this fine specimen makes a unique and lasting souvenir.

Materials

Shells, sea glass, pebbles, or other beach finds
1 (4.4-pound) box of plaster of Paris
Water (fresh or seawater)

Beach bucket or other container and a stick for mixing the plaster
Spray bottle

Instructions

Dig a flat fish shape in moist sand about 2 inches deep (ours was 15 inches long and 9 � wide). While working and molding the sand, use a spray bottle to mist the sand so that the mold will hold its shape.
Arrange shells (facedown), sea glass, pebbles, and other beach finds in the mold to create scales, gills, and other fish features. Gently press the items down to anchor them in the sand so they won't move when you add the plaster of Paris.
Mix some plaster, making it thick and creamy so it will not run under the items in your mold (we used 7 cups of plaster and about 3 � cups of water). Very gently pour the plaster into the mold, filling it slightly more than halfway.
When the plaster has set up enough to hold together but is still not too firm (generally an hour), dig the sand away from the fish and gently brush away any flaws and excess sand. Handle it gingerly until completely cured (about 24 hours).