Jesmonite vs Plaster: which to choose for your creations?

Are you hesitating between Jesmonite and plaster for your DIY projects? These two molding materials appeal to creative people, but meet different needs. Discover our full comparison to make the right choice for your creations.

What is Jesmonite?

Jesmonite is a composite material based on mineral powder and acrylic resin.

Today, it is very popular in the DIY and decorating worlds. This is due in particular to its high resistance and modern look.

Advantages of Jesmonite

• Quick-drying: can often be demolded in less than 30 minutes.
• Highly impact-resistant: ideal for manipulated or decorative objects.
• Smooth, modern finish: perfect for design creations.
• Easy coloring: compatible with many pigments or glitters.
• Stone or concrete-like appearance: very fashionable.
• Few bubbles: for clean, precise molding.

Disadvantages of Jesmonite

• More expensive than plaster.
• Limited working time (fairly rapid setting).

What is plaster?

Plaster is a natural material obtained from gypsum (or plaster stone).

It has long been used for molding, sculpting and decorative ornamentation.

Advantages of plaster

• Very economical: perfect for large-scale projects or trial runs.
• Easy to use: ideal for beginners.
• Enables fine detail: perfect for sculptures.

Disadvantages of plaster

• Fragile: sensitive to impact and not very durable without treatment.
• Less water-resistant: requires special varnish.

Jesmonite vs. plaster: comparison table

Detailed comparison: Jesmonite vs Gypsum

• Strength and durability

Jesmonite outperforms plaster in terms of strength. It is less brittle than plaster, making it ideal for everyday objects or those handled regularly. It is also more impact-resistant, making it suitable for creations intended for prolonged use.

Plaster, on the other hand, is more fragile. It is not very resistant to direct impact, and can crack or crumble more easily over time.

• Resistance to humidity

This is where the difference is most noticeable. Unlike plaster, Jesmonite is highly resistant to humidity, making it ideal for bathroom objects, soap dishes and even garden creations.

Plaster is sensitive to humidity: any contact with water or prolonged exposure can damage it. Molds and fungi can also develop in damp environments, limiting its use to dry spaces.

• Ecology and safety

Jesmonite contains no solvents. It emits no VOCs. These volatile organic compounds are toxic. They are responsible for the greenhouse effect.

It's an environmentally-friendly alternative to resin-based materials.

Gypsum is made from gypsum, a natural mineral that is infinitely recyclable, odorless and non-polluting. However, its handling generates a lot of dust. Both materials are therefore relatively environmentally friendly, but Jesmonite is perhaps a little more practical.

• Creative possibilities and customization

Both materials offer excellent customization options, but Jesmonite goes a step further. It accepts pigments, inclusions, glitter, etc., and can be used to create trendy marble or terrazzo effects. Its versatility is remarkable.

Plaster can be colored, painted, sanded and customized after drying. It also allows very fine details to be obtained, making it an excellent choice for sculptures and precise moldings.

• Price and affordability

Plaster remains the champion of economy. It is one of the most economical materials available, and is easily found in all DIY and hobby stores.

Jesmonite is more expensive, but its price is justified by its superior performance. It represents a higher initial investment, offset by the quality and durability of the creations.

Practical advice for getting started

With Jesmonite

• Scrupulously respect the proportions indicated (generally a precise ratio between liquid and powder).
• Prepare all tools before mixing
• Work quickly once components are mixed
• Use silicone molds to facilitate demolding
• Test your pigments on a small quantity before coloring the entire preparation
• Apply a varnish for a protective, glossy finish

With plaster

• Pour the powder into the water, never the other way round, to avoid lumps.
• Mix slowly to limit air bubbles
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid dust.
• Absolutely avoid damp rooms for your final creations
• Protect your work surface with a tarpaulin
• Sand gently after drying for a perfect finish