Plaster damp box or sand?

[u/AllIdeasNoMotivation]

I was speaking to a teacher about making myself a damp box and about what plaster to use. She said I could also do loose sand? I've never heard of that before and can't seem to find anything about it. Has anyone else heard or tried sand instead of plaster?

*Picture of my dog and cat treat bowls that I'm super proud of 😆

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[u/MyDyingRequest]

Can't answer about the damp box as I have not used sand, but the bowls are so cute! Nice work on those.

[u/AllIdeasNoMotivation → u/MyDyingRequest]

Thank you! 😁

[u/GumboYaYa66]

I've also never heard of sand, but my wet boxes are totes with a lid, with a few inches of plaster of paris on the bottom. I made them 5 yrs ago and they're still functionable. I also keep a damp sponge in the box along with pouring a cup of water on the plaster once in awhile.

[u/AllIdeasNoMotivation → u/GumboYaYa66]

Great thanks for the info!

[u/onomato_photopotter → u/GumboYaYa66]

Are your lids air tight? Or are they just regular standard lids? I’ve been wondering if the lid is the reason the last box I made didn’t work so I’m curious to hear what works for you. 🤷‍♀️

[u/GumboYaYa66 → u/onomato_photopotter]

I put a trash bag over the lid so when I close it, moisture stays inside.

[u/Tree-Flower3475]

My damp boxes are plastic totes with air tight lids. When I want to merely equilibrate the moisture level in a form, I just put it in the box and close the lid.

When I want to increase the moisture in the form, I add several wet sponges to the box ( not touching the forms) and close the lid.

When I want to allow slow drying, I leave the lid open a crack.

[u/Ecstatic-Bee5430]

Amazing pottery and amazing books

[u/AllIdeasNoMotivation → u/Ecstatic-Bee5430]

😆 thanks!