Here’s our Etsy shop DISCOUNT link - www.etsy.com/shop/HappyDottingCompany?coupon=UA-cam Popular casting powders include Hydrocal powders (Hydrocal is mainly composed of plaster of Paris and a small amount of Portland cement) and Dental stone plaster, however many casting powders work well. Here’s a UA-cam link for casting - ua-cam.com/video/_zGlQ4gA4Jk/v-deo.html
Thanks for teaching how to make the stones. I just recieved my mold kit. Thank you for packaging them carefully. Quick delivery. I am so very excited to get started.🖌👩🎨🎨🍀🌷💖🦓🇺🇸🤩
Hi Angela. This was very helpful. I've bought your molds, and I love them. I didn't see on your channel a tutorial about how to dot the sphere once it's been cast. I'd love to see how you did yours firsthand. Thank you again for your wonderful products.
It's only takes a few hours to cure - but I often leave mine overnight. You then need to let them dry out properly - at least a few days but depends on your climate. :)
I wonder if the company says they arent meant for outside use because of the mediums used on the rocks more than the rock degrading itself. I have heard from many that watercolors even with a coat of resin will fade outside, maybe this is why?
Hello, normally yes we send everywhere. However I've just had a parcel stopped by customs and I don't know why - trying to sort it out now. Thank you, Anjela 😊
If you use ultracal 30 the ratio is about 1 cup of water to 2 cups of powder. If you use another casting powder like something cheaper from your hardware store you can just experiment to find the mix that works the best. 😊
hi i just ordered some of your molds and im watching you on utube and i see u have an sheet of paper with the mesurments for the t lights and round molds i really need one where can i get that
Hi Anjela, I'm very new at dotting and it has become an obsession. I want to have the sphere in your video, but it's not in your Amazon store. Please tell me where I can find it. Thank you so much.
@@amandaji4466 Hi 👋 We can definitely help you with this. Send me a message on Etsy and I will create you a custom order. Thanks Anjela happydottingcompany.etsy.com
I just use acrylic paint - (no particular brand) for the background colour. If you getting heavily textured brush marks you could try thinning your paint with some water (give a couple of coats if necessary) or use a finer bristled brush if you think the bristles are very coarse or stiff. I wouldn't be too fussy about the background as any art you put on top will hide the background.
Hello, I just bought 3 Happy Dotting Company molds and I made my first mandala stones using UltraCal 30. My question is, can I use Portland cement in these molds? Has anyone tried it? I’m thinking, if I used Portland cement they would be more durable. I think they would come out of the molds just fine but on the other hand I don’t want to ruin the molds I just bought. So if anyone has tried Portland cement with their molds let me know how it went. Thank you.
Hi! Many people use a range of different products including cement based ones. I don't know if Portland cement exactly has been used. You may find a comment on this in the pinned post on our FB page which is about casting. 😊
Do all of your casting molds leave the HDC logo in what is cast? I don't really want your advertising on everything i make for other people - especially if I'm going to be selling it. (IE: that candle holder mold leaves it in the place where the candle goes.)
Hi, the tea- light molds do have HDC in the casting that sits under the candle, but the round molds have the HDC outside the mold so it's not in the casting. It was never intended to be advertising but to prevent copy cats - a huge problem in manufacturing. Thank you, Anjela
No, you need to let the casting dry thoroughly and this can take about a week. Any moisture remaining in the casting may result in problems with paint adherence. It’s best to make a number of stones ahead of when you want them so you’re not “waiting” for them to dry. 😊
Could you possibly advise me which Cement in the UK is equivellent to what you use in the US please, I have been searching for a long time now, and can't seem to buy the brands you use...
What mix you use depends on your location and what you have available. Many different casting plasters work well. I like using Ultracal 30. Unfortunately, in some places it can be hard to get or expensive. Please note there is a downloadable data sheet on my website with the mixing quantities for Ultracal 30 for each mold and stone dimensions (the same ratios work for Perfect Cast). www.happydottingcompany.com Some alternative casting plasters include - USA/Canada - Perfect Cast, Rapid set Mortar mix from Home depot, Quikrete, Mapei, Dental Stone powder, Hydrocal powders, In the UK - Crystacast or Herculite Stone.
@@HappyDottingCompany Thank you for your quick reply, there seems to be more and better options in USA and Canada than here, however I will take a look at the couple of options you have kindly given me. When I find something to make the stones with, I will definitely be back to buy your molds...Thank you once again, with kind regards to you :)
Thank you sooooo much for this video, I literally just ordered my very first art stone mold from you last night, I ordered the #5 & I’m soooooo looking forward to making one & trying the amazing Mandala painting technique for the very first time & yeah I know I probably should of started smaller, but I like big things so that’s why I jumped straight to your biggest mold YIIEEEEEW Ohhhh & I didn’t realise you were in Australia when you started talking about Bunnings I was YIIEEEEW now I can use the same products hahaha
Thank you for this. I was so scared to get started. Your instructions are awesome and thank you for the sheet on how much to use. I order my molds from your company through Amazon because I could get them faster😊.
I am having trouble when I use the Ultracal 30 or cement with the acrylic Folk art or Apple Barrel paint peeling off or scuffing very easily. I usually allow the #3 mold stones and tea light holders dry for at least 3 full days. Any ideas?
Hi Rhonda, I think 3 days drying is still not long enough - allow at least a week - also depends on your climate. Some people actually put the art stone castings in a slow oven to speed up the process. Any moisture remaining in the casting will be a problem for paint adhering. You could also try a spray sealer (from a hardware store) before applying your base-coat. Anjela 😊
amazing!!!!! I am soooooooo happy!!!! that and i checked out the website and you have a new tightlight mould and lowered the shipping cost for free shipping thats just awesome. i already have the moulds in my etsy basket ready and hopefully soon I can buy them :D keep them coming hahaha I love it also question how long do you wait after demoulding the castings to paint?
Hi Anjela, I'm about to order one of your molds from Amazon and I'm learning a lot from your videos. I would like to suggest that you invest in a microphone. I find it difficult to hear you. I'm looking into to getting one as well. I understand a simple mic that plugs into a USB port on the computer will help quite a bit.
This helps so much! I had never thought about mixing with a gloved hand, that may make a huge difference in the bubbles I'm getting along with using surfactant. Thank you so much!
Hi! I'm new to your chanel and new to gypsum casting and I want to know, would you say the final pieces made with Ultracal are heavier than the ones made with regular gypsum??
Yes that's correct Michelle. The Ultracal is heavier and more like a real stone weight - but it can also be pricy depending where you are. All casting powders will work just have different pros and cons. Anjela 😊
Angela, what did you spray into the molds? I couldn’t hear what use said and could read on the bottle :) I have several of your molds but have never sprayed anything in them. Thanks, Judy
Hello. Thank you for making these wonderful videos. My first mold just arrived the multiple hole for rock painting. I couldn’t understand what the spray surfactant is. Is this water? Thank you for clarifying for me.
Hi, thank you for your mould! It’s now sitting, waiting to set. However I wasn’t able to get the same stuff, I have resin plaster. But the algorithm might help others as it’s worked well for me. You give measurements to fill the mould, which I used for #4. The one you advise has a different ratio to mine, so here it is: I explain below but here’s the math: 142+375=517 divide by 4=129.25, x 3 = 387.75 (round up) 388. So for me it’s water 129g to powder 388. It fills the mould with no overflow (or under) 142+375=517. My ratio is 3 to 1, which =4. So divide 517 by 4= 129.25. That’s one unit. My water. To find out the powder I multiplied by 3: 129.25x3=387.75 which I rounded up to 388g. To see if I’d got it right I added them together and got 517! So it’s looking hopeful.
I love your molds although my old hands had a very hard time getting the stone out of the mold. What I did was add some Brusho crystal colour to the dry mix. The result was stunning. I made one green and one yellow. The Brusho is SO concentrated that I only used ⅛ teaspoon for the large mold. I tried the green because I want to paint turtles on the rock and thought a base of the green would make things easier. I highly recommend using the Brusho crystals.
Thank you for all of the very helpful videos! I just received my 4-mold set and I'm excited to get started this weekend (it arrived very quickly and was packaged so nicely, thank you!). One question - sorry if I missed it in the video, but how long should the stones set before painting after they come out of the mold? Thanks again!
Thank you for the lovely feedback Mia. The castings need to be thoroughly dry. This can take up to a week in some climates. Some people put the castings in a fan oven to speed up the drying process. Any dampness in the castings may result in problems with paint adherence. :)
@@HappyDottingCompany Thank you so much, that's very helpful! I live in South Texas where it's very hot and humid, so it might be the longer wait time for me :-). Getting started here in about 10 minutes. Wish me luck! :-D
Dear Anjela and everyone in Australia, you have already made it into 2020 while we still have 12 hours to go. Let me wish you all the best and thank you for so much wonderful dotting time with you all on UA-cam. Love from Germany. Mónica
Thank you. I believe I have all of your products and two of a couple of them. Keep the molds coming. I love them. I really do appreciate, I am not sure what you call it, the text showing what you are saying. I do not have great hearing and this helps alot. Now off to order the sphere mold.
4 роки тому
I didn't realize I needed to let the mixture set for a few minutes before starting to mix. Is this why my spheres are flaky and bubbly on the bottom 1/4 of flat part of the sphere?
Hi, I doubt it's got anything to do with it - I think that's just how the mixture sets. You can give it a light sand with sand paper to remove any loose bits before base coating.
4 роки тому
Happy Dotting Company ok thank you for responding!
Ah ha, I've been watching Rachel from Canada for ages, I didn't realize you were in Australia, lol, I'm in nz, thank you for the video, much appreciated 😀
I bought a product called a Dental Plaster from Bunnings. I saw on the web that this was a good thing to use! I really hope so as it only came in 20kg bags!!
I’m very interested in this large dome mold!!! I don’t see it in your shop. Is there ANY way I can purchase one? 2 years ago I wish I had seen this sooner.
I'm not sure which one you mean. The sphere mold? Please send me a message in our Etsy shop and I can send you a link when I know which one you mean. 😊 www.etsy.com/shop/HappyDottingCompany
I have been using straight cement - type GB Builders Cement from Bunnings for my stones and they seem good. Do you think there will be a problem with them in the future?
Hi Sandra, they need to dry thoroughly approx 1 week. A bit quicker for smaller art stones. Some people put them in a fan oven for a couple of hours on low to speed up the process. Any moisture in the stones will result in problems with paint adherence. Thank you, Anjela 😊
i followed your shop link, but I cant work out how to view the prices in $AUD. everything is in $CA. I'm probably just stupid cos i never used Etsy before!
@@HappyDottingCompany ah got it now, thanks for that! just so I am clear, are you saying that instead of Ultracal30 I can just make up a mix of 90% plaster of Paris and 10% cement powder, and that will be the same thing? And then I can just use it in the same ratios that you provide? I would be willing to do that as it seems a lot cheaper, but just want to be certain it will do the trick properly
@@kymbo72 yes that's how to make up the mix (90% plaster of Paris and 10% cement powder) however it won't be the same mixing ratio's with water as ultracal 30. You'll just have to estimate how much powder to use and then add water until you get a sloppy mix to pour. 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany OK thanks. I'll see how i go. Hopefully it is somewhat similar to your ratios as a guide, but maybe a bit of trial and error involved.
Yes I think they would be too heavy to hang. Zdotdesigns on Etsy has some patterns for Xmas ornaments - there's probably some ideas there of how she does it. 😊
I'm curious what others do to support the mold while it's curing. It looks like you've got some packing/plasticky material rolled up and a rubber band to hold it. Clever idea... any other methods folks have used to support the mold??
Hi Judy, one of those large stadium cups works well. However the packaging has changed since making this video - the mold is now sent with a cardboard cup to suspend it. Thank you, Anjela 😊
Thank you so much for the info. I bought my first two molds several weeks ago and will be making my art stones very soon. I was just wondering about clean-up. How do you clean the container that you mix the water and Ultracal 30 in?
@@HappyDottingCompany Thank you so much for replying. I figured it wasn't good to have it go down the sink drain, LOL. I made my first stones and used the little bit extra to fill the cavities of one of my paint pallets like I believe you have done. I used a dry paper towel to clean out the container and then a wet paper towel to finish. Worked great. My heart and 3 inch round art stones turned out great. Can't wait to make more. (The little paint pallet molds turned out as well.) Thank you so much for your wonderful tutorial and download tor the amounts.
If you live in an apartment like me line the bowl or whatever container you’re mixing in with a sturdy plastic bag. Then once you’ve poured out your mix into your mold just tie up the bag and place in the trash. Hope this helps.
I placed an order for the new molds, I did not find the download data sheet, where do I find that to purchase? Thanks. I also want to know if you are ever going to try and make a mold cover for the tealight candle diamond shaped holder? Just love your products. I have all of them, some I have 2 and 3 of the molds.
Hi Angela, I noticed you didn’t tap your molds at all to release any bubbles. Im going to try the surfactant as i do get tiny micro bubbles even after tapping. Thank you for sharing your tips.
Hi Anjela, Sandra from the USA...I cast my first 4 molds today using your products...You would be so proud. They came out great. Smooth as can be I can't wait to get painting.Thanks for sharing. Excellent product I will use over and over again.
Hi Carole, I suggest letting them dry thoroughly - in my climate this takes about a week. I know some people will put the stones in a fan oven (not too hot) to speed up the drying out process. They shouldn't feel cool or moist at all. Any moisture left in the casting will result in problems with paint adherence. :)
Hello, no definitely don't wash residue down the kitchen sink - otherwise after repeating this you risk blocking your drain. I rinse the container outside in the garden. Thank you, Anjela 😊
If you live in an apartment like me you can line your mixing bowl with a sturdy plastic bag and once you’ve poured out your mix into your mold just tie up the plastic bag and put it in the trash.
Hi Christine, the dome template is really used just like any other stencil for dot art. So here's a link to a beginner dot art video that will help - ua-cam.com/video/q7ZnExazlKo/v-deo.html
Angela, if I could hug you, I would. You have made a project that was intimidating much more achievable for me. Here in Colorado, we don't find smooth stones easily. With your products and your tutorials, I am ready to really have some fun. THANK YOU for sharing your wisdom with us. Please know I'm sending (safe) hugs from chilly Colorado. Tiffany
Thank you so much for this video! I just purchased your round stone and heart combo set. I’m so excited to receive them. We are going to make mini mosaics for our garden using concrete then seal them. Thank you!!!
Thanks for this useful tutorial, you mention you put Resin on after you have finished dotting, do you have a tutorial on this as i have never used this before on anything and so worried I might ruin my work, but think it looks brilliant and would love to try. If no tutorial do you have any tips ie what resin and mix, do you dip the stone or what? Many thanks
This is just a temporary disruption because we're waiting for stock to arrive to our USA dispatcher in Wisconsin - it should only be a few days and then the settings will change 😊
Happy Dotting Company Thank You so much for the response. I will keep checking back with your store to see when they are avaiable. Thanks again. Sandra
Your moulds arrived today after a long trek across the world, they're fabulous and well worth the wait. Have plaster of paris, will pick up 12.5kg cement tomorrow and start sieving as no Ultracal available but this will give me added satisfaction and I don't want to take the short cut of neat plaster of paris. I don't want to frighten any kangaroos but if it works first time you'll hear a sonic hallelujah boom from England to Australia & beyond!
@@HappyDottingCompany Success! Cast all 7 moulds using a 80/20 plaster:cement mix. Hand-squidging with gloves and your surfactant worked beautifully and the casts dried out after a week, slowly turning almost white and I used a tiny bit of filler for the few airholes which occurred fortunately underneath. So incredibly smooth, I'm really thrilled and excited to start painting them. Brilliant video, thank you again!
Here’s our Etsy shop DISCOUNT link - www.etsy.com/shop/HappyDottingCompany?coupon=UA-cam
Popular casting powders include Hydrocal powders (Hydrocal is mainly composed of plaster of Paris and a small amount of Portland cement) and Dental stone plaster, however many casting powders work well. Here’s a UA-cam link for casting - ua-cam.com/video/_zGlQ4gA4Jk/v-deo.html
Finally I have purchased my first order of Ultracal 30. I am looking forward to using my rocks made from it.
Thanks for teaching how to make the stones. I just recieved my mold kit. Thank you for packaging them carefully. Quick delivery. I am so very excited to get started.🖌👩🎨🎨🍀🌷💖🦓🇺🇸🤩
Thank you for the tips! I will using the surfactant . I always get the little bubbles. I hope to purchase the two new molds very soon.
Hi Angela. This was very helpful. I've bought your molds, and I love them. I didn't see on your channel a tutorial about how to dot the sphere once it's been cast. I'd love to see how you did yours firsthand. Thank you again for your wonderful products.
Thank you Nancy for your feedback. I'll aim to do another youtube clip showing the dotting a sphere :)
Hi Angela..very informative video..thank you! I'm on my way to your shop to purchase the sphere mould..so happy you have another creation to dot. ♡
What is the black paint you use as a base coat??
Just regular acrylic paint - I don't recommend any particular brand. 😊
Hello! Do you have a link I could use to purchase Hydrocal? And perhaps a list of supplies for a beginner to casting?
Please message me via Etsy and I can send you some casting powder information. Thank you, Anjela 😊 happydottingcompany.etsy.com
I have a hard time getting the sphere and the newest candle holder out of the molds. Is there an easy way that I haven’t figured out?
They can be stiff and require strong hands but you'll find they loosen up a bit with use. :)
hi pam again just wondering how long it takes to harden it doesnt look very thick is that the way its suppose to be
It's only takes a few hours to cure - but I often leave mine overnight. You then need to let them dry out properly - at least a few days but depends on your climate. :)
What do I do with the surfactant? Do you spray the mould before you add the casting powder mix?
That's correct Karen - just a light spray to cover - tip out any excess before pouring casting mixture. 😊
I wonder if the company says they arent meant for outside use because of the mediums used on the rocks more than the rock degrading itself. I have heard from many that watercolors even with a coat of resin will fade outside, maybe this is why?
Thank you so much for this video. Do you send your moulds to Spain? 0r could you recommande someone near to buy them? Greeting
Hello, normally yes we send everywhere. However I've just had a parcel stopped by customs and I don't know why - trying to sort it out now. Thank you, Anjela 😊
Yo soy de España y pedí los moldes y ya los tengo en mi poder sin problema. Lo único que tuve que pagar 30€ por aduana
I don't own a scale --- is this necessary. If so where do I get. Thank you, I'm just starting out.
If you use ultracal 30 the ratio is about 1 cup of water to 2 cups of powder. If you use another casting powder like something cheaper from your hardware store you can just experiment to find the mix that works the best. 😊
hi i just ordered some of your molds and im watching you on utube and i see u have an sheet of paper with the mesurments for the t lights and round molds i really need one where can i get that
Hi Pam, there's a downloadable data sheet with all the mixing quantities on my website - www.happydottingcompany.com. Thanks, Anjela :)
Thank u so so much now i can start using my molds thanks again
Whats the name of mixture pls
I like using ultracal 30 but very often you can find something inexpensive from a hardware store. 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany thanks
Hi Anjela, I'm very new at dotting and it has become an obsession. I want to have the sphere in your video, but it's not in your Amazon store. Please tell me where I can find it. Thank you so much.
@@amandaji4466 Hi 👋 We can definitely help you with this. Send me a message on Etsy and I will create you a custom order. Thanks Anjela happydottingcompany.etsy.com
Hello, Anjela. What type paint do you use for the background? Any tips on how to avoid brush marks?
I just use acrylic paint - (no particular brand) for the background colour. If you getting heavily textured brush marks you could try thinning your paint with some water (give a couple of coats if necessary) or use a finer bristled brush if you think the bristles are very coarse or stiff. I wouldn't be too fussy about the background as any art you put on top will hide the background.
Hello, I just bought 3 Happy Dotting Company molds and I made my first mandala stones using UltraCal 30. My question is, can I use Portland cement in these molds? Has anyone tried it? I’m thinking, if I used Portland cement they would be more durable. I think they would come out of the molds just fine but on the other hand I don’t want to ruin the molds I just bought. So if anyone has tried Portland cement with their molds let me know how it went. Thank you.
Hi! Many people use a range of different products including cement based ones. I don't know if Portland cement exactly has been used. You may find a comment on this in the pinned post on our FB page which is about casting. 😊
Do all of your casting molds leave the HDC logo in what is cast? I don't really want your advertising on everything i make for other people - especially if I'm going to be selling it. (IE: that candle holder mold leaves it in the place where the candle goes.)
Hi, the tea- light molds do have HDC in the casting that sits under the candle, but the round molds have the HDC outside the mold so it's not in the casting. It was never intended to be advertising but to prevent copy cats - a huge problem in manufacturing. Thank you, Anjela
Once I’ve waited the appropriate time and my stone is set, can I start painting immediately? Thanks
No, you need to let the casting dry thoroughly and this can take about a week. Any moisture remaining in the casting may result in problems with paint adherence. It’s best to make a number of stones ahead of when you want them so you’re not “waiting” for them to dry. 😊
Great Video. I wrote how much water and power on each one of my molds for a quick reference......
Great idea! Anjela 😊
Could you possibly advise me which Cement in the UK is equivellent to what you use in the US please, I have been searching for a long time now, and can't seem to buy the brands you use...
What mix you use depends on your location and what you have available. Many different casting plasters work well.
I like using Ultracal 30. Unfortunately, in some places it can be hard to get or expensive. Please note there is a downloadable data sheet on my website with the mixing quantities for Ultracal 30 for each mold and stone dimensions (the same ratios work for Perfect Cast). www.happydottingcompany.com
Some alternative casting plasters include -
USA/Canada - Perfect Cast, Rapid set Mortar mix from Home depot, Quikrete, Mapei, Dental Stone powder, Hydrocal powders,
In the UK - Crystacast or Herculite Stone.
@@HappyDottingCompany Thank you for your quick reply, there seems to be more and better options in USA and Canada than here, however I will take a look at the couple of options you have kindly given me. When I find something to make the stones with, I will definitely be back to buy your molds...Thank you once again, with kind regards to you :)
We are not getting that molds.... 😕
Sorry I don't know what you mean - I'd love to help - feel free to send me a message on Etsy www.etsy.com/shop/HappyDottingCompany
Thank you sooooo much for this video, I literally just ordered my very first art stone mold from you last night, I ordered the #5 & I’m soooooo looking forward to making one & trying the amazing Mandala painting technique for the very first time & yeah I know I probably should of started smaller, but I like big things so that’s why I jumped straight to your biggest mold YIIEEEEEW
Ohhhh & I didn’t realise you were in Australia when you started talking about Bunnings I was YIIEEEEW now I can use the same products hahaha
Fantastic! Enjoy 😘 Anjela
Is there any requirements for room temp when making the rocks?
Not that I'm aware of. Anjela 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany sweet! Just finished my first one! Love it!
What do you use to paint the stone black ?
Just black acrylic paint. :)
Complete Newbie here. I'm confused on how you make your dots on the chalk lines. How do you know where to put the dots?
Hi Brandi, this is a more comprehensive youtube for beginners about Dotting and how to use stencils - ua-cam.com/video/q7ZnExazlKo/v-deo.html
Thank you for this. I was so scared to get started. Your instructions are awesome and thank you for the sheet on how much to use. I order my molds from your company through Amazon because I could get them faster😊.
I am having trouble when I use the Ultracal 30 or cement with the acrylic Folk art or Apple Barrel paint peeling off or scuffing very easily. I usually allow the #3 mold stones and tea light holders dry for at least 3 full days. Any ideas?
Hi Rhonda, I think 3 days drying is still not long enough - allow at least a week - also depends on your climate. Some people actually put the art stone castings in a slow oven to speed up the process. Any moisture remaining in the casting will be a problem for paint adhering. You could also try a spray sealer (from a hardware store) before applying your base-coat. Anjela 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany Thank you!
amazing!!!!! I am soooooooo happy!!!! that and i checked out the website and you have a new tightlight mould and lowered the shipping cost for free shipping thats just awesome. i already have the moulds in my etsy basket ready and hopefully soon I can buy them :D keep them coming hahaha I love it
also question how long do you wait after demoulding the castings to paint?
Hi Anjela, I'm about to order one of your molds from Amazon and I'm learning a lot from your videos. I would like to suggest that you invest in a microphone. I find it difficult to hear you. I'm looking into to getting one as well. I understand a simple mic that plugs into a USB port on the computer will help quite a bit.
This helps so much! I had never thought about mixing with a gloved hand, that may make a huge difference in the bubbles I'm getting along with using surfactant. Thank you so much!
Hi! I'm new to your chanel and new to gypsum casting and I want to know, would you say the final pieces made with Ultracal are heavier than the ones made with regular gypsum??
Yes that's correct Michelle. The Ultracal is heavier and more like a real stone weight - but it can also be pricy depending where you are. All casting powders will work just have different pros and cons. Anjela 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany thank you so much! I found a distributor near me and I think it's at good price so I'm gonna give it a try 🙆🏻♀️
Hola, en mi país no existe Ultracal30. Cómo puedo sustituirlo? Gracias
Looking forward to purchasing one! Thank you, Angela!
Angela, what did you spray into the molds? I couldn’t hear what use said and could read on the bottle :) I have several of your molds but have never sprayed anything in them. Thanks, Judy
A homemade surfactant - a weak mixture of dishwashing liquid and water - it prevents bubble holes. 😊
Happy Dotting Company Ok! Thank you so much Angela 😘
Can the same affects on the silicone be made by washing it in dish soap as to spraying it?
Probably 😊
Thank you Anjela. In Belgium the product to use is called Raysin 100. Your molds are fantastic by the way. Love, Karin
Thanks for that info Karin. :)
Hello. Thank you for making these wonderful videos. My first mold just arrived the multiple hole for rock painting. I couldn’t understand what the spray surfactant is. Is this water? Thank you for clarifying for me.
It's a weak solution of water and dish-washing detergent. A surfactant breaks surface tension and reduces the likelihood of bubbles in the casting. 😊
For NZ fans of dotting. You can get quality casting mix, including Ultracal30 from BarnesNZ located in Auckland 😁
Hi, thank you for your mould! It’s now sitting, waiting to set. However I wasn’t able to get the same stuff, I have resin plaster. But the algorithm might help others as it’s worked well for me. You give measurements to fill the mould, which I used for #4. The one you advise has a different ratio to mine, so here it is:
I explain below but here’s the math: 142+375=517 divide by 4=129.25, x 3 = 387.75 (round up) 388.
So for me it’s water 129g to powder 388. It fills the mould with no overflow (or under)
142+375=517. My ratio is 3 to 1, which =4. So divide 517 by 4= 129.25. That’s one unit. My water. To find out the powder I multiplied by 3: 129.25x3=387.75 which I rounded up to 388g.
To see if I’d got it right I added them together and got 517! So it’s looking hopeful.
I just ordered my moulds. Can't wait. Thank you :)
Do you have parrots? It sounded like a parrot in the background :)
Sounds like a crow.
Thankyou so much. A wonderful comprehensive tutorial. I think k I just found my new hobby. I'm looking forwards to being able to buy some new toys.
I love your molds although my old hands had a very hard time getting the stone out of the mold. What I did was add some Brusho crystal colour to the dry mix. The result was stunning. I made one green and one yellow. The Brusho is SO concentrated that I only used ⅛ teaspoon for the large mold. I tried the green because I want to paint turtles on the rock and thought a base of the green would make things easier. I highly recommend using the Brusho crystals.
Thanks so much for letting us know Sarah. 😊
After more practice I am now able to roll out the stone without a problem. Love the mold.
@@sarahyoung1676 Fantastic! , Anjela
Angela I looked on you Etsy and can’t find the sphere or octagon mold. I would love them. Where can I find em
TFS-Rebecca
Here's the link for you . :) . www.etsy.com/listing/761876645/sphere-mold-with-dome-template?ref=shop_home_feat_3&frs=1
Thank you for all of the very helpful videos! I just received my 4-mold set and I'm excited to get started this weekend (it arrived very quickly and was packaged so nicely, thank you!). One question - sorry if I missed it in the video, but how long should the stones set before painting after they come out of the mold? Thanks again!
Thank you for the lovely feedback Mia. The castings need to be thoroughly dry. This can take up to a week in some climates. Some people put the castings in a fan oven to speed up the drying process. Any dampness in the castings may result in problems with paint adherence. :)
@@HappyDottingCompany Thank you so much, that's very helpful! I live in South Texas where it's very hot and humid, so it might be the longer wait time for me :-). Getting started here in about 10 minutes. Wish me luck! :-D
Just poured my 1st 4 moulds. Thanks for the easy download measurements!
Do you think a 50/50 mix of plaster and cement would work?
You can, I have done it but just remember work fast. Plaster of Paris sets quickly
What is ratio of water
Just poured my first stones, so exciting. Thank you for very clear directions Anjela x
Wonderful! Enjoy. 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany they turned out fantastic 😃
Dear Anjela and everyone in Australia, you have already made it into 2020 while we still have 12 hours to go. Let me wish you all the best and thank you for so much wonderful dotting time with you all on UA-cam. Love from Germany. Mónica
Thank you. I believe I have all of your products and two of a couple of them. Keep the molds coming. I love them. I really do appreciate, I am not sure what you call it, the text showing what you are saying. I do not have great hearing and this helps alot. Now off to order the sphere mold.
I didn't realize I needed to let the mixture set for a few minutes before starting to mix. Is this why my spheres are flaky and bubbly on the bottom 1/4 of flat part of the sphere?
Hi, I doubt it's got anything to do with it - I think that's just how the mixture sets. You can give it a light sand with sand paper to remove any loose bits before base coating.
Happy Dotting Company ok thank you for responding!
Ah ha, I've been watching Rachel from Canada for ages, I didn't realize you were in Australia, lol, I'm in nz, thank you for the video, much appreciated 😀
Hello Neighbour! :)
I bought a product called a Dental Plaster from Bunnings. I saw on the web that this was a good thing to use!
I really hope so as it only came in 20kg bags!!
How did it go?
I received my second package of molds. I am so excited. Your quality is always awesome. Thank you very much!!! Belle Cerezo from Germany.
Thank you Belle, enjoy! Anjela 😊
I’m very interested in this large dome mold!!! I don’t see it in your shop. Is there ANY way I can purchase one? 2 years ago I wish I had seen this sooner.
I'm not sure which one you mean. The sphere mold? Please send me a message in our Etsy shop and I can send you a link when I know which one you mean. 😊 www.etsy.com/shop/HappyDottingCompany
I have been using straight cement - type GB Builders Cement from Bunnings for my stones and they seem good. Do you think there will be a problem with them in the future?
I certainly don't know of any problems using cement problems. 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany Thanks Anjela, will so how they go. Love your moulds and tutorials by the way! Thanks so much.
love that mold, and the idea for using surfactant to reduce bubbles thank you
Thank you for the great info
Just found your company from Rachel's rocks and made my first purchase! Looking forward to my new hobby!
Enjoy Cyllyn. :)
Hi there we enjoyed this so much. Is there a place to order from in South Africa?
Thank you for this video.. I'm brand new to this and am looking forward to making my own stones and dotting away! ❤
Enjoy 😊 Anjela
Thank you so much for all your products! They're fantastic!!! And your tutorials are very helpful! 💕🌴💃
Hello from ITALY I would love to get this mold but it is very defficult have come ??
How long do the stones need to cure before painting them?
Hi Sandra, they need to dry thoroughly approx 1 week. A bit quicker for smaller art stones. Some people put them in a fan oven for a couple of hours on low to speed up the process. Any moisture in the stones will result in problems with paint adherence. Thank you, Anjela 😊
Hi I bought plaster instead of ultra cal this time. Like ultra cal better. Can I mix concrete into the plaster? If so, what type?
FYI-excess stirring will cause bubbles
Another question ... how long do you let the mix sit once you've put the water and powder together (before you use your hand to stir)?
Only about a minute - I’m usually impatient 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany ok. My last one was about that long and I had a lot of water on top as it was in the mold. Though I might have done too soon
I’m so glad you provided the discount code to your Facebook group. I just placed my order. Thank you! Happy dotting everyone!
i followed your shop link, but I cant work out how to view the prices in $AUD. everything is in $CA. I'm probably just stupid cos i never used Etsy before!
In Etsy - there's a location button down the bottom of the screen - check you've got your location set as Australia. 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany ah got it now, thanks for that! just so I am clear, are you saying that instead of Ultracal30 I can just make up a mix of 90% plaster of Paris and 10% cement powder, and that will be the same thing? And then I can just use it in the same ratios that you provide? I would be willing to do that as it seems a lot cheaper, but just want to be certain it will do the trick properly
@@kymbo72 yes that's how to make up the mix (90% plaster of Paris and 10% cement powder) however it won't be the same mixing ratio's with water as ultracal 30. You'll just have to estimate how much powder to use and then add water until you get a sloppy mix to pour. 😊
@@HappyDottingCompany OK thanks. I'll see how i go. Hopefully it is somewhat similar to your ratios as a guide, but maybe a bit of trial and error involved.
Thank you so much!! I just made my first stones!
I would like to buy the tools for dot painting pls and correct paints where from xx😁❤
What is the name of your spray agin pls😁
I’d like to make Christmas ornaments. Are they going to be too heavy?
Yes I think they would be too heavy to hang. Zdotdesigns on Etsy has some patterns for Xmas ornaments - there's probably some ideas there of how she does it. 😊
I'm curious what others do to support the mold while it's curing. It looks like you've got some packing/plasticky material rolled up and a rubber band to hold it. Clever idea... any other methods folks have used to support the mold??
Hi Judy, one of those large stadium cups works well. However the packaging has changed since making this video - the mold is now sent with a cardboard cup to suspend it. Thank you, Anjela 😊
Thank you so much for the info. I bought my first two molds several weeks ago and will be making my art stones very soon. I was just wondering about clean-up. How do you clean the container that you mix the water and Ultracal 30 in?
Hi Kathy, I rinse any residue out and dump into my garden - not down your sink - it can cause drainage problems. :)
@@HappyDottingCompany Thank you so much for replying. I figured it wasn't good to have it go down the sink drain, LOL. I made my first stones and used the little bit extra to fill the cavities of one of my paint pallets like I believe you have done. I used a dry paper towel to clean out the container and then a wet paper towel to finish. Worked great. My heart and 3 inch round art stones turned out great. Can't wait to make more. (The little paint pallet molds turned out as well.) Thank you so much for your wonderful tutorial and download tor the amounts.
Thank you for asking this question! I've been wondering the same thing since I know dumping it down the drain would be a costly mistake
If you live in an apartment like me line the bowl or whatever container you’re mixing in with a sturdy plastic bag. Then once you’ve poured out your mix into your mold just tie up the bag and place in the trash. Hope this helps.
@@carolburton5853 Great tip! I may have to give it a try. 😀
I placed an order for the new molds, I did not find the download data sheet, where do I find that to purchase? Thanks. I also want to know if you are ever going to try and make a mold cover for the tealight candle diamond shaped holder? Just love your products. I have all of them, some I have 2 and 3 of the molds.
Hi Angela, I noticed you didn’t tap your molds at all to release any bubbles. Im going to try the surfactant as i do get tiny micro bubbles even after tapping. Thank you for sharing your tips.
Hi Anjela, Sandra from the USA...I cast my first 4 molds today using your products...You would be so proud. They came out great. Smooth as can be I can't wait to get painting.Thanks for sharing. Excellent product I will use over and over again.
How long would you suggest air drying the stones after making them before painting please?
Hi Carole, I suggest letting them dry thoroughly - in my climate this takes about a week. I know some people will put the stones in a fan oven (not too hot) to speed up the drying out process. They shouldn't feel cool or moist at all. Any moisture left in the casting will result in problems with paint adherence. :)
@@HappyDottingCompany whoops! I only waited 3 days, I will see what happens. Thanks for the advise
We just received our molds from Happy Dotting Company. The rocks are so beautiful. Thank you so much 😊 💖
make from water and ultracal 30,isnt it???
yes 😊
Thank you 😊
Thanks so much for the beautiful video. The exploration is so detail
How do you clean your mixing tub and molds after the ultracal is poured out? Can you wash them in the kitchen sink?
Hello, no definitely don't wash residue down the kitchen sink - otherwise after repeating this you risk blocking your drain. I rinse the container outside in the garden. Thank you, Anjela 😊
If you live in an apartment like me you can line your mixing bowl with a sturdy plastic bag and once you’ve poured out your mix into your mold just tie up the plastic bag and put it in the trash.
I'm new at this, I don't understand how to use the template, once i made my markings with the pencil is a video on how to get started?
Hi Christine, the dome template is really used just like any other stencil for dot art. So here's a link to a beginner dot art video that will help - ua-cam.com/video/q7ZnExazlKo/v-deo.html
I just received my order in Cape Town, South Africa. Thank you 🙏 I absolutely love my molds.
Wonderful! Enjoy 😘
I found this video fascinating.
where would I find the mixing sheet you are using
On our website www.happydottingcompany.com 😊
🙏🏻❤️
Angela, if I could hug you, I would. You have made a project that was intimidating much more achievable for me. Here in Colorado, we don't find smooth stones easily. With your products and your tutorials, I am ready to really have some fun. THANK YOU for sharing your wisdom with us. Please know I'm sending (safe) hugs from chilly Colorado. Tiffany
😘
Thank You!! 😊
Love your products. I don’t have the sphere but it is now on my list to get!
Thank you Teresa 😘
What do you suggest using to support the sphere's if we didn't get the foam bits in our shipping envelope??
A large stadium cup or round takeaway container 😊
Hi I am struggling to order all your moulds
Please send me an email with where you are so I can help - anjela@happydottingcompany.com
Thank you so much for this video! I just purchased your round stone and heart combo set. I’m so excited to receive them. We are going to make mini mosaics for our garden using concrete then seal them. Thank you!!!
Wonderful - thank you - Enjoy! :)
Thanks for this useful tutorial, you mention you put Resin on after you have finished dotting, do you have a tutorial on this as i have never used this before on anything and so worried I might ruin my work, but think it looks brilliant and would love to try. If no tutorial do you have any tips ie what resin and mix, do you dip the stone or what? Many thanks
It says you don’t ship to the USA. Do you know where I can order the molds. I can’t find any other countries that sell the molds. Thanks, Sandra
This is just a temporary disruption because we're waiting for stock to arrive to our USA dispatcher in Wisconsin - it should only be a few days and then the settings will change 😊
Happy Dotting Company Thank You so much for the response. I will keep checking back with your store to see when they are avaiable. Thanks again. Sandra
I found mine on Amazon!
Your moulds arrived today after a long trek across the world, they're fabulous and well worth the wait. Have plaster of paris, will pick up 12.5kg cement tomorrow and start sieving as no Ultracal available but this will give me added satisfaction and I don't want to take the short cut of neat plaster of paris. I don't want to frighten any kangaroos but if it works first time you'll hear a sonic hallelujah boom from England to Australia & beyond!
How wonderful - Enjoy! 😘
@@HappyDottingCompany Success! Cast all 7 moulds using a 80/20 plaster:cement mix. Hand-squidging with gloves and your surfactant worked beautifully and the casts dried out after a week, slowly turning almost white and I used a tiny bit of filler for the few airholes which occurred fortunately underneath. So incredibly smooth, I'm really thrilled and excited to start painting them. Brilliant video, thank you again!
@@susanhamilton3212 You're welcome! Enjoy 😘