How to Make Plaster Table Bases

Choose an object as a base mold model. The model should have the desired table base shape but may be somewhat modified later on. Vases and existing table bases work well for models.

Choose a container in which to create your mold. The container should be at least as long as the base mold model is tall, at least 6 inches wider than the model is wide and at least 6 inches deeper than as the model is deep. Plastic containers and wooden forms work well as mold containers. Ensure that mold containers are sealed to prevent plaster from leaking out.

Coat the inside of the container with mold release.

Mix the plaster according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fill the mold container one-fourth to one-third full of plaster. The actual amount will depend on the size of your base mold model; larger models will require less plaster. The plaster, with model halfway submerged, should fill the mold container halfway.

Coat the base mold model with mold release and press it into the plaster, lengthwise, until it is halfway submerged. The top of the model should be flush with the side of the model container. For example, if you are using a vase as a model, the mouth of the vase should be flush with the side of the container. Insert two wooden dowels, each slightly longer than the mold is tall, into the plaster, one on each side of, but not touching, the base mold model. Allow the plaster to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Cut four pieces of waxed paper and fold them in half. Place the pieces on the surface of the cured plaster so that one half rests on the surface and one half rests vertically along the inside of the mold container's walls. The pieces help separate the mold halves later on and should not be touching the base mold model.

Coat the surface of the cured plaster, the exposed half of the base mold model, the wooden dowels and the waxed paper with mold release.

Mix the plaster according to the manufacturer's instructions and fill the second half of the mold container. Allow the plaster to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Free the plaster mold by allowing the plaster to slide out of or cutting away the mold container. Separate the halves of the mold; if the halves do not separate immediately, use a slotted screwdriver and the waxed paper tabs to gently work the halves apart. Remove the base mold object and waxed paper.

Coat the inside of both halves of the plaster mold with mold release. Press the mold halves together, using the wooden dowels as guidance to line the halves up correctly. Secure the mold halves together with tape, a bungee cord or rope. Set the mold so that the open end is pointing up.

Mix the plaster according to the manufacturer's instructions. Pour the plaster into the mold. Use a putty knife to smooth out excess plaster at the top of the mold so that the plaster and the top of the mold are flush. Allow the plaster to cure.

Open the mold and remove the plaster table base. Sand away rough edges. Carve or paint the table base as desired.