belly casting FAQ
* Do I need to do anything to prepare for my 'Casting Call'?
You'll need to think about what parts of your body you want to include in the cast - just your belly or include your breasts, hands, or your spouse's hands. (See Design Document PDF below for necline options to consider.) You'll also want to be thinking about how you'd like your cast painted or decorated - theme, colors, etc. Please have a minimum of a 6'x6' space cleared for us to do the casting, preferebly with close access to water (kitchen or spacious bathroom is best). I will bring all casting supplies. Have your camera ready and take one final trip to the bathroom!
* What does it feel like to have my belly cast?
Month 9 Design will first wrap your torso with a protective plastic wrap (Glad Press-N-Seal). This is preferred over petroleum jelly because it is much less messy for the expectant mom and eliminates the slimy feeling when the plaster strips are applied. You will feel the warmth of the strips as they are applied and as if your belly is getting a massage as I smooth out each strip. You will then feel the srips begin to stiffen - the cast will harden but not fully dry while on your body. As it hardens you will feel it begin to slightly pull away from your body. Some moms report heightened awareness of their baby's movements once the cast begins to set, but be assured that your baby is not in any danger. You will feel a slight tugging sensation when the cast is removed from your belly.
* What should I wear for my casting session?
I will be comfortably causal and so should you! Althought I do my best to protect your clothing, please wear garments that you don't mind if some plaster gets on them as it may not completely wash out. I suggest comfortable shorts or pants for your lower body. Your belly needs to bare. If you choose to include your breasts in the cast, you can either wear a old bra or bikini top (non-padded preferred) or go bra-less for a more natural form....please dress to your comfort level. If you are not including your breasts in the cast wear an old bra/sports bra or bikini top.
* How much time does it take?
Expect to spend 2-2.5 hours with me. This includes set-up & clean-up, casting, and design consultation. I have about 15-20 minutes of prep work before casting can begin (covering your floors with plastic dop cloths, cutting plaster strips to your belly size, applying protective wrap to your torso). The actual casting takes about 45 minutes. The remainder of the time is spent discussing the design of your belly cast.
* Can loved ones be present during the casting session?
Absolutely! Your spouse, children, parents or friends are all welcome to join us - they can even apply some plaster strips if they'd like! Have a friend who is due around the same time as you? Have your casts made together for a truly memorable "girls day". (Discounts offered for group casting sessions.)
* Do you provide 'Casting Calls' to my town?
Month 9 Design is happy to provide casting services in the greater Triangle Area. The cost of your belly casting session includes travel within a 20 mile radius of M9D's location in Raleigh, NC 27615. Additional miles billed at $1/mile. (Will consider traveling to locations withing a 1.5 hour travel time.)
| design_document_-_web.pdf |
