Plaster on wood

Question

I have a rocking horse that I have stripped of old Scrim and plaster. If I replace the scrim, what type of plaster do I need to re-coat it.

Henry · Accepted Answer

To recoat a rocking horse after stripping old scrim and plaster, you’ll need to choose a plaster suitable for the material and finish you want to achieve. Here’s what you should consider:
1.  Scrim Replacement: Before applying plaster, replace the scrim with a fine, strong fabric like muslin or cheesecloth. This provides a stable base for the plaster to adhere to.
2.  Plaster Type:
	•  Traditional Option: Use gesso, a mixture of plaster of Paris (calcium sulfate hemihydrate) and rabbit skin glue (or a modern equivalent like hide glue). This is historically accurate for rocking horses, as it creates a smooth, durable surface that can be sanded and painted.
		•  Mixing: Combine plaster of Paris with warm water and a small amount of glue to form a creamy consistency. The glue improves adhesion and reduces cracking.
		•  Application: Apply in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry fully before adding the next. Sand between layers for a smooth finish.
	•  Modern Alternative: Use

Darren · Answer

Fast setting plaster of Paris and bond on the new scrim use plaster of Paris with pva mixed its the  nearest you will get to gesso now days 
Old rocking horses were typically coated with gesso, a plaster-like substance, to provide a smooth surface for painting. Gesso is a mixture of plaster and a binder, traditionally rabbit skin glue. This coating was applied over the wooden frame of the horse, which was often carved from several pieces of wood and then pegged together.

Stephen · Answer

Use a plaster called gesso it’s a mix of plaster of Paris and something else

Meurig · Answer

Best coat the area with pva glue and use polefiller  instead of as an alternative to plaster.

Neil · Answer

Whats the condition of the wood, - Sealing with pva may be a good idea, but check the wood over for any signs of moisture or rot before going ahead.

Jose · Answer

Hi, this type of restoration usually involves using plaster of Paris or a fine modelling plaster over new scrim. It can be a bit tricky to get a smooth and durable finish, so if you’d like it done properly I’d recommend contacting a professional restorer or carpenter who has experience with plaster work on wood.

Pavol · Answer

Multi finish would be your best option I guess, however not on timber

Balazs · Answer

For a rocking horse, you'll want to use a lightweight filler or a two-part epoxy compound rather than traditional plaster. Traditional plaster is heavy and not ideal for the flexible structure of a rocking horse. A lightweight filler, like a pre-mixed, sandable filler, is a good option for re-coating the scrim. Alternatively, a two-part epoxy filler, like feather fill, can be used and sanded smooth.

Steffen · Answer

I would personally bind the wall first and then plaster in top

Plaster on wood

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