What is Jesmonite?

Find out all about this trendy material for your DIY creations!

Gesmonite ? Jasmonite? No, no, we spell it "Jesmonite", and it's arriving in force...
Popular with designers, craftsmen and hobbyists alike, it's becoming an increasingly important ally in fantasy DIY. Easy to use, versatile and eco-friendly, it can be used to create unique, durable and ultra-trendy decorative objects.

But what exactly is Jesmonite? How does it work? And how do you get started? Here's everything you need to know.

What is Jesmonite?

Jesmonite is a water-based composite material used for molding, casting or sculpting objects. It was created in 1984 in the UK by Peter Hawkins. Halfway between plaster, resin and concrete, it combines the advantages of each without their drawbacks. It is non-toxic, solvent-free and environmentally friendly.

Technically, this eco-resin is composed of two elements:

• gypsum (or plaster stone)
• and acrylic resin.

Mixed together, they form a fluid clay that's easy to pour into a mold. Once dry, Jesmonite becomes solid, resistant and slightly satiny. It's perfect for decorative objects such as vases, beads caps, soap dishes, bowls and other accessories.

Why use Jesmonite?

Jesmonite is a versatile material. It was created as an environmentally-friendly alternative to resin-based materials (such as fiberglass, polyester or cast concrete).
Unlike epoxy resin or concrete, Jesmonite is water-based, VOC-free (volatile organic compounds) and more durable. It's an excellent choice for designers sensitive to the ecological impact of their creations.

You can create a wide range of objects in Jesmonite:

• molding of table hollows, flowerpots, candleholders,
• create jewelry, coasters or even sculptures,
• add pigments, inclusions, marble or terrazzo effects.

It adapts to every style, whether you're a minimalist, bohemian or maximalist!

What are the different types of Jesmonite?

There are several types of Jesmonite, each suited to specific creative or technical projects. Here are the main ones:

• Jesmonite AC100 is the most common, especially for hobbyists. This water-based formula is easy to use and offers a smooth, slightly satin finish. It's ideal for cubbies, jewelry, decorative objects or terrazzo effects. Its versatility makes it suitable for beginners and experienced designers alike.
• Jesmonite AC200 is characterized by its flexibility once dry. It is perfect for fine or complex moldings such as delicate jewelry or highly detailed shapes. Its flexibility facilitates demolding and reduces the risk of breakage.
• Jesmonite AC300 is designed for more ambitious projects. More robust, it can be used to create voluminous objects such as vases, lamps or decorative elements. Its matte finish gives it a rougher appearance.
• Jesmonite AC730, enriched with mineral aggregates, reproduces the look of natural stone or concrete. Highly resistant, it can be used outdoors. It is ideal for creations with a mineral rendering, such as sculptures, trays or architectural objects.
• Jesmonite Flex Metal contains metal powder (copper, brass, bronze, etc.) and gives a true metallic effect after polishing. It is used for high-end or decorative objects, where aesthetics play a central role.

Would you like to find out more about the different types of Jesmonite? How to choose the right one for your projects? We recommend this technical data sheet.

How does Jesmonite work?

The basic stages of creation:

1. Prepare the mold (silicone, plastic, etc.)
2. Weigh and mix the powder base and the liquid in the proportions indicated.
3. Add pigments if desired
4. Pour into mold and tap to remove air bubbles
5. Allow to set (approx. 30-45 min. depending on temperature)
6. Unmold and sand if necessary

Tip: You can personalize with inclusions (dried flowers, glass shards, etc.).

Things to know before you start:

• Jesmonite hardens quickly: prepare everything in advance
• Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area
• Clean tools promptly with lukewarm water.

What can you create with Jesmonite?

Here are a few ideas for DIY projects using Jesmonite:

To work well with Jesmonite, the choice of mold is essential. Silicone molds are the most practical: flexible, reusable and easy to unmold. They come in a multitude of shapes: geometrical, floral, abstract... to suit your desires. They will be the indispensable basis for making objects or jewelry like those shown below:

• Terrazzo effect earrings :

• A marbled soap dish/tray :

• Beads caps:

Let your imagination run wild: the possibilities are endless!

Enter the world of Jesmonite!

Easy to use, non-toxic and full of possibilities, Jesmonite is the ideal material for your DIY projects. Whether you're a novice or an experienced designer, you'll be able to bring unique, trendy objects to life.