Birth With Dignity, Joy and Peace of Mind

 

There is just nothing more beautiful to me than a full, round belly bursting with the life of a new baby. A belly cast is a wonderful way to hold on to a small part of this most transient experience in a woman's life cycle. Belly casting is a wonderful art form and the opportunity to immortalize the amazing transformation of your body during pregnancy. A photo might capture your body's changes two-dimensionally, but a belly cast adds the dramatic third dimension of depth. Even if you're uncertain about doing this kind of birth art ("What would I *do* with it?" See "displaying" tips) do it anyway, because as time goes by, and your love for your baby grows, this memento will mean even more to you!

 

It is usually done two to three weeks before a woman's due date, but can also be used to capture the changes during pregnancy as well. The last month is the best time, but don't wait TOO long, you do still want a *pregnant* belly to cast!

 

The process is done in the privacy and comfort of your home. I bring everything needed to make the cast. You provide the belly! The entire process takes about one and a half hours (sometimes less) from when I arrive at your home until I finish.

You can stand or sit, but most women prefer to sit comfortably in a chair. I use a protective cover for the floor, and first we use petroleum jelly to protect the skin and then using plaster gauze, I make a mold of your body that you have chosen from a gallery of options (belly only, breasts and belly, whole front, hands included, etc.)

Depending on how much of your body is cast, the minimum time is usually about an hour. We can light some candles and put on some relaxing music while you have a cup of tea and I mold your belly, or you can invite your girlfriends over or include it in a Blessingway ceremony, whatever you're comfortable with!

The mold is then removed carefully from your body. It takes approximately 48 hours for it to dry completely. I can leave it with you if you do not want anything further done on it. Otherwise I take the mold and make a one of a kind design based on what you have specified.

Wall Hanging

To hang your Belly Cast with ribbon, punch a hole in each side of the cast at the top. The easiest way to put holes in it is to use a power drill with a small bit. Think of where the strings for a halter-top would be and place your holes there. Start with 3 yards of ribbon. Fold in half and cut. Feed each piece through the front of your Belly Cast and make a knot. Bring both pieces up and make a bow. These halter ties can be as long or short as you like.

Frame

You could buy a large picture frame (you don't need the glass front so try to buy just the frame) and cover the back rectangle of the frame with a pretty color velvet, black is always striking especially if you decide to leave your Belly Cast its natural color. Attach your cast to the back of the frame using wire. Drill holes in the wood backing that is covered with fabric. Then run wire from the back to the front and through the sides of the cast to attach it to the frame.

Easel

If you have the space, your Belly Cast could be beautifully displayed on a brass easel. You can purchase these at any local craft store.

Leaning Against a Wall

I have mine setting on the corner of a bookcase in our bedroom leaning against the wall. It's probably the easiest way to display a Belly Cast!

Shadow Box

 

A dramatic way to display your Belly Cast would be to either make or buy a shadow box and display it in there.

· A personal casting session done in the comfort and privacy of your home.

· Bellycast is preserved and then returned to you in about 2-3 weeks time if you choose to have it sanded smooth, and 4-6 weeks time if you choose to have it painted. 

· Belly Only $125 ($200 smooth)

· Belly and Breasts $175 ($275 smooth)

· Hands on Belly $225

· Belly-Breasts-Shoulders $225 ($325 smooth)

· Belly-Breasts-Hands On Belly $275

· Full Torso, Belly-Breasts-Shoulders-Arms-Hands on Belly $400

· Monthly/trimester or painting fees, contact me for more info

· A series of belly casts showing your progress throughout pregnancy.

· Belly casts can cover your entire pregnant belly and chest or just your belly.  You can have your hands on your belly or even the hands of loved ones (a spouse, an older child).  Belly casts can be personalized according to the individuals desires.

· Have a belly casting party.  Allow your closest friends and loved ones be a part of this momentous occasion.

Belly cast sanded smooth and painted

Belly cast with rough finish, painted and decorated

Belly cast with rough finish, unpainted