This blog gives you the how-to instructions for my Flower Hands as shown in the Spring Savings Spectacular creation!
* Tools Required: one package of nitrile-dipped gloves, light set gypsum (I used SHEETROCK easy sand lightweight setting-type joint compound-20), 1x2-12” grade stakes, gallon airtight plastic bags (I used a Ziploc freezer bag), water, scissors, and clamps
* Suggested: clay pots, pebbles, jewelry (rings, bracelets, watches), accessories
* Skill: easy
* Time: 30 minutes (plus drying time)
* Safety: be sure to clean up any spilled mix quickly with a damp towel
How-To Instructions
1. The flower hands are fashioned in the same manner as those seen on the robot. For the robot, I positioned the hands before they dried.
2. This process works best with two people – one to hold the hand and mold it while the other person pours the mixture. When I worked solo, I clamped the gloves to the side of a sturdy box to maintain a workable framework.
3. Starting with a cup of light set gypsum and a half cup of water, dump the ingredients into the gallon bag, remove most of the air, seal it, and gently squeeze and knead until mixed. Continue adding gypsum and/or water until a paste is achieved (thinner than toothpaste but thicker than a milkshake). I ended up using about 4 cups of gypsum per glove and nearly as much water – your results may vary.
4. Cut a corner off of the end of the bag and use it to squeeze into the fingers of the glove (like a pastry bag). You will need to gently push the mixture into the fingers. Do not fill completely – only up to “mid-palm” level. Wipe off any spilled mixture with a damp towel. The compound will begin to harden so work quickly.
5. Insert a shim (spike side first) into the glove as far as it will go – take care not to pierce the glove. Hang the glove until dry for a few hours – I let mine dry over night. It will be stiff and heavy.
6. Repeat as needed – use alternating gloves for the proper ratio of left-to-right hands.
7. Once dry, wipe any additional dried mixture from the glove with a damp towel.
8. We created the “hand flower” as seen on the table by inserting the glove into a clay pot and added pebbles for a realistic garden look.
9. Accessorize with rings, bracelets, and watches. You could also paint the nitrile part of your hands and add glitter for a more dazzling look. You can also paint or stain the stake if desired.
Note: After it was dry, my hand landed on the cement floor (!!!) and the fingers shifted slightly from the palm. They moved back into place. Fortunately the finished product is sturdy and works well even when accidentally dropped.
