If you are a craft enthusiast, chances are you may have used POP or Plaster of Paris to make moulds or decorations. It is a versatile material used extensively in construction and interior decoration. Let us take a look at some of the uses, benefits, and low-cost POP designs.
What is POP?
Plaster of Paris, also known as POP, is a type of plaster that sets quickly and has a gypsum base. Its primary ingredient is calcium sulphate hemihydrate, which is a fine white powder that can be mixed with water to create various designs and casts. Thanks to its quick-drying and temperature-resistant properties, Plaster of Paris is an excellent material for both construction and decoration projects. It becomes a hard, white, and smooth structure when dried. We shall now see why Plaster of Paris is a popular choice and how it can be employed in creating beautiful interiors.
Uses of Plaster of Paris
Plaster of Paris has several different commercial uses. This material is used extensively, from making the cast to set broken bones to creating moulds for idols and images. In construction, it is used for casting and moulding. POP plugs holes or gaps and gives a smooth finish to concrete surfaces.
In interior decoration work, Plaster of Paris creates false ceilings, trimmings, crown mouldings, wall designs, temporary partitions, and skirting designs near the baseboard. These are only a few of the uses of POP in interior work.
What are the benefits of using POP?
Plaster of Paris is very popular with architects, designers, and construction engineers for several reasons.
- POP is very easy to use and install. It does not require technical expertise. Any construction worker can be trained to mix the right proportion of POP and water and pour it into a set design with minimal effort.
- It is inexpensive and very affordable, making it a popular choice for budget interiors. Low-cost POP designs are a quick and easy way to give your home an elegant upgrade.
- Plaster of Paris hardens quickly and is resistant to cracks due to temperature fluctuation.
- POP has excellent insulating properties. It makes for a great false ceiling in homes with HVAC systems.
- Plaster of Paris can be moulded into smooth and imaginative designs, creating an excellent finish. Different colours can be added to POP for effect.
Low-cost POP designs to consider for a modern home
- Layered ceiling with inlaid lighting – Pick a geometric pattern that suits your room. Your layered ceiling can be rectangular, square, or oval. You can have a centre with a chandelier and add tiered layers with inlaid lighting. Alternatively, you can work from the edges of the wall and use the step method for a stunning false ceiling.
- Crown mouldings for a patterned finish – One way to use POP designs on a budget is to add an elaborately designed or patterned edge where the ceiling meets the walls. This looks incredibly sophisticated and elegant. Add a touch of gold to elevate the look and give it a luxurious and expensive look.
- POP wall art – Adding a Plaster of Paris rainbow to the kids' room or a jharokha style trim to highlight your paintings or wall art can take your interior décor to the next level without breaking the bank. If you are creative, you can consider installing a large Buddha head against a dark wall. This makes for a stunning accent wall.
- Textured walls – Plaster of Paris is the perfect material for creating textured walls. Add a layer of POP over your brick wall and use easily available materials like sponges, strings, etc, to create patterns or different textures. These look good as they set, but you can also add some colour for a dazzling effect.
- Simple wall plate – If you are looking for elegant interiors without having to spend a lot on artwork or wallpaper, adding a traditional Indian design or a Victorian motif wall plate is just the perfect solution.
You can create a variety of low-cost POP designs for your walls and ceilings using your imagination and creativity. If you are keen on installing a false ceiling, crown mouldings, or a wall trim with Plaster of Paris, it is a good idea to look up designs online or consult an interior design professional for low-cost ideas.
