Just received your Jesmonite order and wondering where to start? Don't worry: working with Jesmonite doesn't call for specialist or expensive equipment. A few well-chosen tools are all you need to get going and achieve clean, professional results. Here are the tools you need to get started with Jesmonite, and why each accessory really makes a difference.
If you are brand new to this material, we recommend starting with our guide “What is Jesmonite? Uses, tips and recipes”, which explains how it works, what it can be used for and the key points to know before you begin.
Essential accessories for getting started with Jesmonite
A precision scale (0.1 g): the non-negotiable tool
Working with Jesmonite is a lot like baking: the quantities have to be accurate to the gram. A 0.1 g precision scale saves you from wasting material, running short mid-pour or ending up with an unbalanced mix that compromises the setting and strength of your piece. It is the most useful starter investment, and you will use it for your Jesmonite creations as well as for projects in wax or other materials.
Mixing containers: at least two, ideally reusable
You will need one container for the liquid and one for the powder, plus an extra container for each colour or effect you have in mind (marbled effect, several shades…).
Our recommendation: stainless steel containers, which are durable, easy to clean and endlessly reusable.
Clean your containers in hot soapy water immediately after mixing. Jesmonite dries quickly: the longer you wait, the harder they will be to clean.
Silicone moulds: the only type compatible with Jesmonite
Only flexible silicone moulds let you demould cleanly without damaging the piece. Don't use any other type of mould for your Jesmonite creations.
Drying time before demoulding, by range:
- AC100: ~30 minutes
- AC84: ~2 hours
- AC730: ~4 hours
Three key points to remember:
- Make sure your mould is perfectly clean and dry before every use: any dust, residue or water can cause surface defects and weaken your piece when you demould it. Get into the habit of cleaning and inspecting the mould before every pour.
- Wait until the piece has cooled before demoulding: Jesmonite heats up as it cures (a normal exothermic reaction).
- Don't leave the piece in the mould for too long: condensation can leave marks on the finished surface.
Good news: Terre de Bougies silicone moulds are fully compatible with all Jesmonite ranges.
How do you work out the right quantities for your Jesmonite creations?
You don't need to be a maths whizz. One simple step is all it takes to work everything out, and we'll show you how.
Step 1: measure the volume of your mould
- Place your empty mould on the scale and reset it to zero (tare).
- Fill the mould to the brim with water.
- Read the weight shown: this is the weight of the water alone, and it is all you need.
Taring is essential: it cancels out the weight of the mould so that only the weight of the water is counted.
Step 2: apply this formula
| Range | Divide the weight of the water by… | Then multiply by… |
|---|---|---|
| AC100 | ÷ 2 | × 2.5 for the powder |
| AC84 | ÷ 3 | × 5 for the powder |
| AC730 | ÷ 3 | × 5 for the powder |
The Terre de Bougies Jesmonite calculator: a real time-saver
If you would rather save time and skip the maths, use our Jesmonite calculator. In just a few clicks, it automatically works out the quantities of base and liquid you need for the volume of your mould.
Cleaning: a step you shouldn't skip
To keep your tools and moulds in good condition for the long term:
- Wash them in hot soapy water immediately after use; don't wait for the material to dry.
- You can also use Jesmoclean for a more thorough clean.
- Dry your moulds thoroughly before pouring again: pouring into a mould that is still damp can create surface irregularities on your next piece.
How to store your Jesmonite products
- Always close the containers tightly after each use.
- Store the products in a dry place between 5 and 25°C.
- Protect them from frost and high temperatures.
In a nutshell
A precise scale, a few reusable containers and silicone moulds: that is all you need to get started with Jesmonite confidently. The secret to a professional result lies not in sophisticated equipment, but in precise measuring and sticking to the drying times.
Now that you know which tools to use, it is time to choose the Jesmonite range best suited to your project. Discover the differences between the AC100, AC730 and AC84 ranges to pick the one that best meets your needs.
