Fibrous Plastering
Gypsum is a naturally occurring crystal of calcium sulphate . It can be found in various forms in different areas of the world. The most commonly used in Great Britain is alabaster. Plaster is manufactured from gypsum by reducing it to a powder and then heating it to remove the water of its crystallisation content.
Gypsum Plaster has been recorded as having been used by the ancient Egyptians within some of the pyramids. During Henry VIII's reign, evidence indicates that Plaster of Paris was imported to Great Britain from France.
In the 16 th Century only small quantities of gypsum are known to have been used in plasterwork. In the last 200 years, it has been predominantly used for casting decorative elements and for gauging lime when running mouldings. Flat work however has mostly involved the use of plain lime plaster.
Local tradition may have been partly due to the use of lime and gypsum in different cases, but may also have been due to the availability of materials.
Working methods and the materials used became more standardised at a later date. Throughout the 19 th Century, gypsum was readily available and was used almost all the time to gauge lime mixes for running moulds, as well as being used for cast work and on its own.
Although fibrous plastering is part of history it is also an important part of our heritage, thus ensuring old buildings are restored to their original state. Simplicity Mouldings are proud to manufacture fibrous plaster using traditional methods when & where required and can provide extensive advice and guidance on fibrous plaster.
