Q. The plaster gauze isn't softening when I dip it in water. What is wrong?
A. There may be a couple of things wrong. Usually this indicates that the water is too cool or that you haven't
allowed the plaster gauze to remain in the water long enough to soften. The other possibility is that the
plaster gauze got wet before it was used. Perhaps it picked up humidity from the air if it was left
unwrapped for too long before it was used. If this is the case, you will need to purchase more plaster gauze.
Q. The reinforcement gauze won't stick to the inside of the mask. What is wrong?
A. Probably there is too much Un-Petroleum Jelly on the inside of the mask and it is resisting the wet gauze.
If this is the case, use a soft clean rag or piece of cloth and gently wipe the excess Un-Petroleum Jelly
from the inside of the bellymask. The other possibility is that the reinforcement gauze hasn't been moistened
enough to soften the plaster of paris. If this is the case, be sure that your water is warm and that you allow
the plaster gauze to remain in the warm water long enough for it to soften.
Q. I damaged my mask. Can it be repaired?
A. Yes. Most minor damage can be repaired by applying more plaster gauze to the inside of the mask and
strengthening the damaged area this way. Also more gesso will be necessary in damaged and repaired places.
