Internet magazine of a summer resident. DIY garden and vegetable garden

Decorative bas-reliefs. Creating a bas-relief with your own hands: How to make an exclusive wall painting? Creative possibilities for updating your decor. Master class for beginners. Fastening and drying

Once upon a time, decorating the interior with stucco molding and bas-reliefs was available only to the highest nobility, the rich and large temples. Nowadays, making a bas-relief with your own hands is just a matter of labor and patience. Advances in modern technology make it possible to bypass the technical difficulties of creating stucco at home for people who do not have an artistic education, but are not devoid of artistic taste and imagination. Create bas-reliefs like those in Fig. Below, it is quite possible for a patient and attentive amateur.

Bas-reliefs of modern work

New materials

In addition to the traditional material for stucco - gypsum - do-it-yourself stucco can be created from modern building mixtures with polymer additives; they are often combined under the general name “acrylic plasters”. You can learn how to increase the volume of a bas-relief using construction putty compounds from the video:

Video: sculpting a bas-relief from putty

Hobbyists also use a basic composition of architectural plaster, acrylic plaster and PVA glue in a ratio of 1:1:0.5 by volume. The gypsum and plaster mixture are mixed dry and sealed with water, i.e. add water to the mixture, not the other way around. Bring to the consistency of dough like yogurt or low-fat kefir and add PVA, stirring thoroughly. The thickness of the mixture is selected according to the type of work with it, in which case which mixture is needed, see below.

The bas-relief on the wall is made using the technique of low relief (top left in the figure) or high, with protruding figures (top right). A high bas-relief is also called high relief. Technically, high relief differs from low bas-relief in that the figures are sculpted like a round sculpture (see below). Low bas-relief looks good in any lighting, except very dim, and high relief looks better in diffused light.

Types of bas-reliefs

In living spaces, which are often lit quite brightly and evenly, it makes sense to use a mixed bas-relief technique (bottom left), without making the figures very convex. How to sculpt the bas-relief “Klimt Tree”, see for example. Master class video below:

Video: master class bas-relief “Klimt’s Tree”



The peculiarity of this work is that it uses almost all the techniques for creating bas-reliefs at home. Having become familiar with them visually, it will be easier for you to understand further and apply them in any of the techniques described below.

Note: At one time, the Austrian artist Gustav Klimt created the composition “Tree of Life”. Her style is so unique that the expression “Klimt tree” has become popular.

Reverse bas-relief, or counter-relief (bottom center in the top figure) is no longer stucco, but stone carving (the contours are cut in depth), which is technically much more complex. Therefore, we only note that the counter-relief needs bright and sharp oblique light, because the image actually draws a shadow. There is also a special type of bas-relief - shadow, lower right, where the entire pattern is formed by shadows from small and minute protrusions and depressions of a certain shape. When the direction and angle of incidence of light changes, the pattern changes, even changing facial expressions throughout the day. Shadow bas-relief is the highest art and, alas, short-lived: the protrusions and depressions become clogged and lose their shape when cleaned. The drawing fades, blurs, disappears.

Bas-relief techniques

Stucco molding on the wall at home can be done in one of the following ways, in order of increasing technical complexity:

  • Plastering of free ones, i.e. models that were not initially fixed to the supporting surface and cannot be removed;
  • Plastering of non-removable models on the supporting surface. These methods are especially good for beginners, because... allow you to receive the corresponding high and low relief, without risking the need to redo the whole work again in case of failure;
  • Reverse casting from plaster according to the model to be removed. The method is somewhat more labor-intensive, but also suitable for beginners, because... You can pore over the model as much as you like until it is perfect. In addition, in one mold (form, mold) made according to a model, up to 20-30 identical products can be cast at home;
  • Artistic plaster stucco in place, i.e. directly on the supporting surface. It requires thorough skills, but makes it possible to create large relief panels covering the entire wall, with contours around corners, going to the ceiling, and complete freedom of creative expression.

In place or on a sheet?

It is possible to make a bas-relief using methods 2-4 both locally and in parts on a table or floor. An excellent basis for fragments of prefabricated bas-relief is plasterboard sheet, plasterboard. It is prepared as a base surface (see below), parts of the overall picture or complete compositions are drawn out on separate sheets or pieces of the desired shape (see figure), and mounted on a leveled wall.

Relief panels

The fastener heads and joints of the fragments are puttied with a base compound, then plastered and rubbed to match the base texture. Another good thing about prefabricated bas-reliefs is that a piece damaged due to inexperience can be remade without touching the rest. The bad thing is that the whole composition turns out to be heavy; It is impossible to attach a prefabricated bas-relief to weak walls (plasterboard, PHB partitions, etc.). however, it is generally not recommended to load weak walls with bas-reliefs - the load-bearing base must be stronger than the material of the composition.

Tool

Making a bas-relief will require you to acquire some special tools. Not very expensive, but you can’t count on success without it. First of all, half a rubber ball for kneading the next portion of the working mixture. Everything falls out of it at once if you turn it inside out, and the dried remains fly off in the same way. The bas-relief will be stronger and more beautiful the faster it is formed, i.e. the further the working solution is from the beginning of setting. The kneading ball eliminates wasted time on shaking, scraping, etc. to zero. It is also more convenient to collect the solution in small portions from a ball, because... There are no corners inside. For the same reason, the batch turns out to be more homogeneous (homogeneous), and this is one of the most important factors in the final artistry of the bas-relief.

Tools for making bas-reliefs from gypsum

Next, you will need spatulas for modeling - palette knives. Set of 6 pieces (item 1 in the figure) is enough for a start. For forming bunches of grapes, scales, etc. We also need convex-concave spatulas. Sets with these are expensive, up to 30 thousand rubles. (!) for a set of 48 items, so amateurs often use spoons of different sizes instead (coffee, tea, dessert, table), with rounded and pointed tips. However, you can’t just create low relief with spoons; the bend of the handle gets in the way. Therefore, for each spatula, take 2 spoons made of aluminum and other ductile metal. One is used as is, it will be a convex spatula. And the other handle at the scoop itself is twisted 180 degrees and bent back, you get a concave spatula.

Note: good convex-concave palette knives come out of disposable plastic spoons and forks. To obtain concave spatulas, their handles are heated with a lighter near the scoop, twisted and bent while heated.

You will also need another palette knife - an artistic knife, pos. 2. Painters use it to clean off old paint from the palette, and sculptors trim the edges, cut off the flash, and create a fine texture. A palette knife can be perfectly replaced with a wide shoe knife.

The next necessary tool is a pastry syringe with nozzles (items 3 and 4) and, possibly, a 20 ml medical syringe without a needle. It is highly advisable to take a confectionery syringe with a trigger drive (item 4). Mixtures for bas-reliefs are not nearly as fluid as cream for cakes, and you need to form twigs, roses, leaves with a syringe (well, we’ve all seen how to decorate cakes) by holding it with both hands; Hold the instrument at the tip with your left hand.

Finally, you will need 2-3 flat painting brushes of different sizes and the same number of round, cheapest, ox-ear bristles. There is no point in buying expensive squirrel and kolin for bas-relief “for the sake of coolness”, they are too soft. You will also need a very hard and rough children's nylon brush for painting. Use brushes to create texture (see below) and plaster small areas of the bas-relief.

Working with and caring for the tool

Palette knives and brushes are dipped in water before adding the next portion of the mixture. Residues and drips on the working part are the key to spoiled work. After work, the syringe is disassembled and lowered into water in parts; Palette knives and brushes are also placed there. When the instrument becomes acidic, the remaining working materials are thoroughly washed off with clean water. By the way, a properly cared for pastry syringe after working on the bas-relief is also suitable for use for its intended purpose. All instruments must be stored absolutely clean.

Bas-relief technologies

Creating a bas-relief on the walls in an apartment (or on plasterboard sheets, if the bas-relief is prefabricated) is carried out in stages as follows:

  • The base surface is cleaned of old finishing, leveled with an accuracy of no worse than 2 mm/m, primed and covered with a base compound or any decorative plaster (see also below). GKL for prefabricated bas-relief does not require leveling;
  • The background texture is applied to the base coating: with a foam rubber or fleecy roller, by “slapping” with foam rubber or felt, etc. At the same stage, the base is tinted, see below. If the base coating is decorative plaster, texture creation and tinting are not required;
  • In one way or another (from those indicated above and described below), the relief is formed. During the formation of the relief, tinting is possible similar to that for the base;
  • If necessary, the relief is painted over the top when completely dry. It is convenient to do surface painting with special paints for gypsum stucco - they are immediately shaded into very subtle halftones with a damp sponge. Acrylic paints will give sharper color transitions;
  • The completely dried relief is covered with styrene-butadiene latex (sold in construction stores). Paints on dried gypsum stucco fade, like on frescoes, and latex treatment restores their color;
  • After 1-2 weeks, so that the excess latex is completely absorbed and evaporated, the finished relief is varnished with acrylic varnish as needed.

How to tint stucco?

From the video above it is clear that the stucco bas-relief needs to be formed in layers. To tint the base for the relief and, if necessary, its details, apply thin layers, 1-2 mm each. Typically, layers of thick, low-fat sour cream are applied with a brush and smoothed with a palette knife. The batch for each layer is tinted with a color (pigment) for plaster; the deeper, the darker, or vice versa. For example, for the bark of a tree they take a brown pigment of ever-decreasing concentration, and for leaves they add green pigment as they move outward. The next layer is applied to the set but still wet previous one. The texture with shades can be applied right there with a brush or then rubbed with zero-grit sandpaper or, coarsely over large areas, with a metal brush. For more information on tinting gypsum stucco, see the following video.

Video: how to cover a bas-relief on a wall

"Free" plastering

This method is used to create tall floral bas-reliefs or low patterned overlays from disposable paper napkins. From the latter, using an inverted plate or bowl greased with lanolin as a model, you can get a plaster vase, but its practical meaning is more than doubtful. The base solution described above is not used. It is durable, holds its shape well, but its color is not pure white. Also, tinting is not used due to excessive consumption of material; finished elements are painted.

For plastering, a liquid, almost watery solution of architectural plaster is prepared. A model (an artificial flower, a napkin) is dipped into it and placed on a board covered with plastic film. Flowers are placed in the position in which they will be in the finished composition, see fig. When the solution has set, dip it again, then again, until the model is plastered with a layer 1-1.5 mm thick.

Drying artificial flowers during the gypsum process

Flowers for drying are placed in the same position each time. In this way, flat areas are formed on them, allowing them to be firmly glued to the base. Glue with sour cream thick acrylic plaster or acrylic glue. You can also glue PVA.

Plastering on site

This is perhaps the most accessible way to make, say, a molded lampshade for a chandelier (see figure) without experience. Plastering the model in place differs from the previous method in that the model is first glued in place and then plastered with a brush. The plaster solution is made thicker, like sour cream. If the stucco is on the ceiling, the layers are applied very thin, translucent, so that there are no drips. Accordingly, up to 10-15 or more layers will be required.

Stucco lampshade for chandelier

The main problem here is the material of the model. They are usually made from polystyrene foam, polystyrene foam, polyurethane and other soft plastics. But over time they all decompose. This happens very slowly, but still, after 3-7 years, dirty gray or yellow-brown irremovable stains begin to appear on the stucco. Therefore, models for on-site plastering are best sculpted from salted dough, the same dough from which you make your own Christmas tree decorations. Salt dough is glued to plaster, stone and other mineral building materials with acrylic glue or any mounting glue. Stucco molding based on non-removable salt dough models retains its appearance for 30-50 years or more.

Reverse casting...

This is the most common way to create stucco with your own hands, allowing you to obtain results of a completely professional appearance and quality without excessive work and skill. The classic procedure for reverse casting from plaster is shown step by step on the left in the figure, pos. a-e. Model 1 made of plaster, plasticine, plastic, etc., or an exemplary product that it is desirable to repeat/replicate, is placed on a flat board 2. Now, in order to facilitate the removal of the mold with the model, the board is covered with film.

Reverse casting from plaster

Then the model is coated with a thin layer of lanolin. It is not advisable to use medical Vaseline; the model may stick to the mold. A plaster and any other porous (wooden, salt dough, stone, etc.) model is coated several times, allowing the lanolin to soak in for an hour or two, until a solid greasy sheen appears on the surface.

Next, the model is coated with a layer of gypsum or alabaster mortar of 3 dough thickness, approx. 1 cm, immediately forming protrusions-anchors 4 and stiffening ribs 5. The set and almost hardened, but still slightly pliable coating is tied with a frame made of soft (annealed) steel wire 6. The branches of the frame are fastened with ties 7 made of thin copper wire.

The next step is coating 9 with a thick cement-sand mortar from M150 in a layer up to 5 or more cm thick, this is already a casting mold. Here you need to remember to form the supporting surface of the mold 8. After a time of gaining 3/4 of the strength with cement-sand mortar (7-20 days, depending on external conditions), the finished mold 10 is separated from the shield using a wedge 11. Well, what if the shield was covered film, the mold is simply removed.

Finally, the inner surface of the mold is cleaned with a copper brush 12 and, if necessary, defects are corrected with gypsum or alabaster mortar. The burr is removed from the side of the mold 13 and, from its internal edge, a chamfer of approx. 0.7 mm. In a mold without a chamfer, the casting will almost certainly get stuck. Before casting, the inner surface of the mold is coated with lanolin, like a model. The mold is filled with the casting mass layer by layer. As soon as its penultimate layer begins to set, eyes with mustaches are inserted into it (upper right in the figure), by which the casting is then pulled out. For small ebbs, the eyes can be made from paper clips. The last layer is poured when the eyes are already firmly seated in the penultimate one, i.e. when it is completely hard, but still slightly damp. It is unacceptable to test the firmness of the lugs by shaking them!

Currently for runs up to 15-20 pcs. in the old fashioned way they do not cast from plaster; the mold for such cases is cast from silicone (bottom right). Model prepared as before. case, pour silicone layer by layer, in layers 1-2 mm thick, until a mold thickness of approx. 1.5-2 cm. In addition to technological simplicity, the silicone mold allows you to produce castings with shallow recesses, because it is elastic and stretchable.

Mini gypsum reverse casting

Also, small rounded plaster parts are poured into silicone molds: berries (see figure), acorns, mushrooms, etc., even small fish. In this case, a flask tray is sculpted from plasticine, and the model is also sculpted from plasticine. The silicone is poured into the flask all at once; The flask and the model are not coated with anything. Once the silicone has hardened, the mold is simply torn off and the model is picked out. This is the so-called. mini – reverse casting of plaster.

...and not the other way around

In plaster mini-casting, a removable model is already used; I mean, the model disappears and needs to be made again for the next batch of castings. A silicone mold can also be made for plaster casting using a lost wax model, then from it it will be possible to obtain up to 100-200 or more castings, but convex ones, without depressions. In this case, the flask is made in the form of a box without a bottom made of plywood with a height 2-3 cm greater than the height of the model and a size such that the gap between the flask and the model is at least 1-1.5 cm.

The model is formed from wax on a board covered with film. Then they place the flask and cover the gap at the bottom with plasticine. Next, the model is doused with silicone in layers, as in the previous one. case, and when its last layer hardens, silicone is also added layer by layer along the contour until the mold is filled to the top. As soon as the last layer is poured, fill the plywood bottom. The model is melted with a household hairdryer: the lousiest silicone holds 140 degrees, which a hair dryer does not provide.

Sculpting a bas-relief in place allows, as mentioned above, to achieve maximum artistic effect, but requires certain skills. You can purchase them without enrolling in an evening department at an art university or courses. Just practice with plasticine; The technique is the same, only when working with plaster the time is limited - work with the next section must be completed before it begins to set. Technically, plaster modeling is distinguished between low (flat) and high (round).

The technique of flat plaster modeling is shown in the selection of photos below. The rules here are like this. First, the material of thick dough or rich sour cream is applied in layers. Second, each layer is first smoothed, forming a relief at the same time, and then its contour is trimmed. The third, next layer, as in general in layer-by-layer filling with gypsum, is applied to the set but still wet previous one. Fourth, as the layers build up, they switch to smaller tools. And fifth, in each layer the work is carried out from the thinnest and smallest details to the thickest and roughest. In this case, from the leaf cloves to its petiole.

Low plaster casting

It is best to remove branches on bas-reliefs with a pastry syringe or, very thin ones, with a medical syringe. The thickness of the branches is adjusted by pressing harder and weaker on the piston (item 1 in the figure). In this case, the texture is applied with a brush, and the kinks are formed with the tip of a palette knife. The syringe is filled with the base solution, and for painting and for snow-white it is plaster, like a non-removable model in place.

Branches on bas-reliefs made of plaster

Strongly twisting branches (item 2) can be obtained by soaking a cord or twine in a gypsum solution of sour cream thickness, laying it on a board covered with film along the contour, and when dry, gluing it to the wall. If the bas-relief is prefabricated, lay out the cord immediately, it will dry firmly. To obtain branches of decreasing thickness, some of the strands are removed or, conversely, 3-5 branches of twine are twisted at the butt, then 2-3, then left alone. If the cord is visible through the plaster, the branch is gypsumed in place, applying the solution with a brush

Note: branches for bas-relief made of gypsum cord can be soaked several times in tinted mixtures. The desired color is obtained by grouting with sandpaper.

Sharp ribs

You've probably seen sharp ribs in pictures with bas-reliefs. They are formed by folding the thumb and forefinger, and the thumbs by folding back the fingers of both palms. The height and thickness of the rib is changed by smoothly moving/spreading the fingers (palms) in motion as the rib is formed. Fingers, as in general for hand sculpting, should be slightly damp.

The basis of the round molding is a wire frame anatomically similar to the object, i.e. with the proportions of the object and the location of the branches where the main bones of the skeleton are. The frame in a round figure works in the same way as the skeleton of a living creature. Information about skeletons can be gleaned from any course on the plastic anatomy of humans, animals and birds. Plastic anatomy is a discipline not of medical, but of artistic education. The material there is presented from the point of view of how to sculpt, and not how to treat, and is designed for listeners who are not inclined to the subtleties and rigors of science.

The figure is approx. from 30-40 cm molded onto the frame as shown in pos. 1 pic. For smaller figures, the frame is simplified (item 2), but respecting the principle of anatomical similarity. In humans, by the way, it is not so complicated: we divide height by 8; 1/8 of it will be the dimensional module of a harmonious human body, pos. 3.

Plaster molding on the frame

The frames of small animal figurines are made in a similar way (items 4a and 4b). It is advisable to reduce the weight of larger figures so that there is less fuss with securing the bas-relief (see below). In this case:

  • The basic frame (pos. 5a) is made voluminous approximately along the contours of the body minus 1-3 cm for modeling, with the help of additional. branches from the same wire (pos. 5b). Auxiliary branches are attached to the main ones and fastened together by winding thin copper wire, or even better - by soldering.
  • In a liquid plaster solution, like low-fat kefir, rolls of medical bandage are soaked, as for plaster casting broken limbs (see, for example, the film “The Diamond Arm”), and the frame is wrapped with a plaster bandage, pos. 5th century It is the rolls that need to be soaked: as soon as the bandage begins to peel off poorly from the skein, it means that the plaster has begun to harden and the rest of the roll goes to waste.
  • Once the plaster frame has completely dried, it is covered in layers with a base solution (tinting can be used), the shape and texture are adjusted with tools and sandpaper, and it is plastered to pure white (if necessary) with a solution of architectural plaster.

Note: for frames of unfolded wings of birds, butterflies, elves, bats, ghouls, dragons, etc. It is convenient to use thin and fine metal mesh. Another option is branches of the main branches, covered with paper or scraps of nylon tights.

Support for figures

Figures for homemade high reliefs are sculpted separately; the location is too difficult. Therefore, each figure must have a flat area, and on the base surface, respectively. flat so that the shapes can be glued into place.

How to attach bas-reliefs

The high relief with round figures turns out to be quite heavy. If per 1 sq. dm. its supporting area is more than 1.5-2 kg, the bas-relief needs to be reinforced. Corrugated nails 80-120 mm, driven into plastic dowels, are best suited for this. The attachment points are marked in advance under the thickest places, distributing them as evenly as possible over the area. The nail in the dowel should sit in the wall at least to a depth of 50-60 mm. The protrusion above the wall is 1.5-2 cm, for which the nail driven into the dowel is bitten off. The bas-relief mass above the protruding fastening peg should be at least 1-1.5 cm.

Superbas-relief

And in conclusion - how to try yourself in the elite technique of shadow bas-relief. All you need for this is a piece of plasterboard with a layer of fresh base solution of approx. 0.5 cm and nail 100-150 mm. You need to carefully remove the flash from the edges of the nail tip to get a regular 4-sided pyramid.

We prepare the sample as follows: using a nail with a slight slope, we prick even rows of holes in a checkerboard pattern and close to each other along the still plastic gypsum board coating. The inclination of the nail and the orientation of the edges of its tip relative to the directions of the rows must be maintained as accurately as possible so that the holes are equally asymmetrical.

The next step is to take the sample out into direct sunlight and, turning this way and that way, and in some other way, observe the play of chiaroscuro. At the same time, we try to imagine how the holes should be pricked to create a changing pattern. And, who knows, maybe you will discover a talent for this rare, but extremely effective art - shadow bas-relief.

Initially, bas-reliefs - three-dimensional images - were used to decorate palaces, mansions, and luxury apartments.

This was due to the high cost of creating bas-reliefs. Then they went out of fashion for some time, but now, with the advent of new materials and the search for original solutions, bas-reliefs in the interior are becoming popular again.

This is no coincidence, because they have become easier to manufacture, and, as it turns out, they combine perfectly with modern interior styles.

Some features of bas-reliefs

The material for the bas-relief can be gypsum, clay, wood, stone, decorative plaster, polystyrene, metal and others - in fact, any material suitable for carving or pouring into a mold.

Bas-reliefs made from modern materials are light, easy to install and relatively inexpensive, while those made from wood, metal and stone, although they require serious costs to create and install, look truly exclusive and expensive.

A three-dimensional image can be abstract or plot-based; it can be stylized as an antique or other ancient bas-relief or have a distinctly modern design. Sometimes a minimalist bas-relief gives a modern look and dynamics to a classic-style interior.

And vice versa, a bas-relief of a classical style can elevate and give a refined, “rich” look to a loft or other room of modern design.

The bas-relief is not only exclusively decorative, it can also have utilitarian functions - you can run wiring under it or disguise some defects in the walls or ceiling. The protruding elements of a modern “angular” bas-relief can even be used as shelves.

Walls or ceilings with a voluminous abstract pattern are an excellent solution when you need to break up some of the dullness of plain surfaces, but you don’t want to add color or decorative elements.

A not too complex bas-relief on the wall is also good when the remaining surfaces are decorated with paintings, photographs, and shelves with souvenirs. A plain wall may seem empty, but a bas-relief will remove this feeling and the interior will become more harmonious and modern.

Thanks to the play of light and shadow, even a relatively simple image on a bas-relief in the interior can look very picturesque in certain lighting.

A universal bas-relief ornament suitable for interiors of many styles - tree trunks and branches. Just like an abstract pattern, it is good for “filling” a wall without overwhelming the interior.

The bas-relief in the form of branches looks great not only on the walls, but also on the ceiling. Even an unpretentious interior with such a ceiling becomes more refined and comfortable.

Interesting and popular ways to use bas-relief in the interior

Sometimes just a few small protruding elements on the walls or ceiling are enough to completely transform the room.

In other cases, a rather large, complex bas-relief, which is the compositional center of the entire room, looks most advantageous.

A wooden bas-relief that matches the color and style of the furniture is actually a win-win solution for decorating a calm, solid interior.

The bas-relief looks great on a kitchen apron. Here it is better to avoid large images with rich texture, as they will be difficult to care for. But even a small bas-relief in the form of, for example, an image of an animal or a small scene, will enliven the kitchen and make it more colorful.

A narrative bas-relief in the interior may be the only decoration of the room, and it will be enough to create a special atmosphere, especially if it is complemented by lighting that makes it more expressive.

Types of bas-reliefs and their features. Step-by-step instructions for creating stucco with your own hands.

Bas-relief on the wall

Walls covered with wallpaper or simply painted look banal today. A new trend in modern interiors is gaining popularity - bas-relief.

The technique of its implementation allows you to create three-dimensional patterns and delimit space using convex-concave shapes. The bas-relief looks prestigious, and the mention of it is associated with wealth and luxury, because only rich people could afford such decoration.

The use of decorative non-standard wall design: bas-relief and its relevance

The use of bas-relief drawing techniques in wall decoration makes the space original and gives the room an atmosphere of sophistication. Bas-relief is a stucco molding known and used in the decoration of houses since ancient times. It also has practical significance: it visually hides communications or cables, wall defects. The volumetric figure above the bed looks especially impressive.

Today, designers are again thinking about combining luxury interior design with inexpensive materials. Therefore, this option for wall decor will not only be interesting, but also a fairly economical way to renovate.

The plaster pattern goes well with both a classic style in the interior and a very creative one; it can be re-painted when changing the overall color scheme in the apartment.

Types of bas-relief

Stucco molding is made on historical, as well as portrait or pictorial themes; it can be abstract, for example, in the form of geometric shapes.

Drawings on an antique theme or polished to look antique look exclusive. Modern themes look especially unusual.

You should select cornices and figurines with caution, as this decor is not always combined with the overall style of the apartment.

Techniques for making plaster drawings

Below are some styles of bas-relief.

It is necessary to think through every detail or element, and, while maintaining symmetry, choose harmonious colors and shades.

What material is stucco made from?

To create three-dimensional drawings, any materials that can be carved or those that can be poured into a mold are used.

List of materials for creating a bas-relief:

  • plastic;
  • gypsum mixtures;
  • stone;
  • clay, including decorative clay;
  • decorative plaster;
  • wood, including bamboo;
  • metal.

Plastic elements are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. Stone or metal bas-reliefs are more expensive, but they look incredibly luxurious. Gypsum is considered an environmentally friendly material, non-flammable and does not support combustion.

Sketches and stencils for beginners: figures, plaster patterns

Decorating walls is a very labor-intensive task. But even if there is no art education, with time and patience, everyone can realize their ideas for decorating an apartment.

For beginner sculptors or people who want to start creating stucco for the first time, simple patterns are suitable:

  • tree stems;
  • simple flower;
  • You can try to sculpt simple geometric shapes along the contour of the mirror.

It is better to cut out the image along the contour from the wallpaper or buy ready-made sketches and stencils in specialized stores. There you can also select additional finishing materials that complement the stucco molding.

Do-it-yourself artistic plaster modeling in an apartment: step-by-step guide


It is better to start the first steps in creating a bas-relief using simple tools and materials.

Tools

List of necessary tools for creating a bas-relief with your own hands:

  • cardboard, if you plan to cut out a stencil yourself or a finished stencil;
  • sandpaper for grouting;
  • masking tape;
  • knife, spatula and plaster or sculpture stack;
  • brush;
  • spray bottle with clean filtered water;
  • an oil felt-tip pen if you plan to highlight the contours with color;
  • scraper;
  • household gloves.

Relief patterns will turn out especially clear if you use a special form to create them.

Materials

It is better to use putty as materials. The main condition is that it must be plaster, otherwise the created figure will easily collapse. You can buy this putty ready-made or mix it yourself.


List of materials for bas-relief:

  • gypsum putty in a volume of about 3 kg;
  • primer of similar weight;
  • acrylic paint;

Polyurethane stucco molding is highly durable, its texture resembles plaster. The material can withstand temperature changes, humidity, and minor mechanical damage. The surface of the figure can be painted in any shade; it is easy to create an antique effect.

Blanks for future plaster modeling

Surface preparation for the application of volumetric forms is very important. The surface must be flat, otherwise the pattern will be distorted and its adhesion to the surface will not be reliable.

When constructing the model, special forms are used.

Preparation of plaster or plaster mortar

The most suitable plaster compositions are products from the Knauf line, for example, Rotband Knauf. This mixture, ready for application to the wall, must be diluted with water strictly in accordance with the operating conditions specified on the packaging by the manufacturer.

The use of other plaster mixtures is allowed. The main condition is that the material must be of high quality from a trusted manufacturer, plastic, and its structure must not form lumps.

When to use wire


For thin and curved lines, wire must be used. It will add strength to fragile elements, create a kind of frame for refined parts, protecting them from deformation.

How to lay out a relief design on a wall

The prepared stencil must be fixed on the wall with masking tape. To do this, you need to attach it to the surface and press tightly, leaving the holes free. The mixture is poured into these holes.

Fastening and drying

After some time, the mixture will begin to harden. At this moment, seven grabs the wall.

Further process of modeling the bas-relief on the wall:

  • the stencil must be carefully removed;
  • it is necessary to fill the voids with plaster stack;
  • sprinkle the elements with water;
  • model each curve of the design with a brush;

Leave until completely dry, then scrub with a scraper.

Toning


Before tinting, it is necessary to sand the model. To do this, you need to take fine sandpaper and rub it evenly over the convex and concave places over the entire surface of the figure in a circular motion.

Next, use a brush to remove gypsum dust, carefully cleaning it from narrow concave areas. After which, the figure is coated with a thin layer of primer, for example, a special primer varnish to protect it from the damaging effects of sunlight or the adhesion of dust. If the walls are to be painted, then apply the paint in two layers, allowing each layer to dry.

Examples of plaster modeling in apartment design

The most popular among bas-reliefs are figures in the form of a tree, flowers, especially roses or birds.

Gypsum tree

The tree represents life. Spring begins with the appearance of the first leaves on the branches, and everyone knows the “tree of life” or “tree of desire”, “family tree”. The tree looks as if it is growing from the wall, creating a special futuristic effect.

To form the trunk, the plaster is applied in short strokes in a checkerboard pattern.

Drawings in apartments


In an apartment, it is appropriate to highlight the work area or the space above the bed with a thematic design. If the apartment is small, you can build a canvas stand for the drawing and move it to different rooms as needed.

Roses and other flowers made of plaster

To create flowers from gypsum, it is better to mix it with PVA glue in a small proportion. And when creating the shape of the petals, to make them smooth, you need to moisten the working tools with water.

Bird painting

Birds in bas-relief are quite difficult to process. The bird has feathers, which means painstaking drawing of each feather is required. You can only create the outlines of birds, but the effect of a “bird of paradise” will not be achieved.

How difficult is it to make stucco on the walls for a beginner?

The main problem when applying materials to the wall is uneven contours and incorrect proportions for preparing the working mixture.

Thus, if the solution is not thick enough, it will spread, preventing the desired depth of concavity from being obtained, and if there is too much gypsum in the composition, it will dry out quickly.


Having little experience in interior design, it is easy to make mistakes.

Typical mistakes when creating a bas-relief:

  • It is not recommended to use stucco as decoration in small rooms and with ceiling heights of less than 3 meters. Volumetric figures look massive and the space will seem even smaller, and to see the pattern on the stream you will have to lift your head;
  • when decorating the kitchen with three-dimensional figures, you need to calculate their sizes so that they do not block the hood or ventilation;
  • all elements in the room should have the same style, texture or range.

In a narrow hallway, it is also inappropriate to decorate the interior with a three-dimensional pattern, but you can decorate the doorway and ceiling with moldings.

Restoration and care


Sometimes troubles occur in the form of breaking parts of the bas-relief, or over time it begins to lose its original appearance, for example, forming gaps at the points of attachment to the wall.

Broken parts are restored with a similar composition of the solution in its exact consistency, and the gaps can simply be covered up.

Drawings with plaster or other materials allow you to highlight part of the wall or become the central element of the rest of the space, cause surprise and admiration of friends, relatives or guests, and make the room truly luxurious.

Useful video

28.06.2019 0

How to make a bas-relief with your own hands on the wall step by step

Originality and beauty have always had a special place in the interior of premises. The bas-relief on the wall is a convex design that is only half in volume. The sophistication and creativity of the decor is due to the correct arrangement of fragments on the surface.

Stone or wood carving, as an element of interior decoration, appeared many centuries ago. The protruding half-volume decor can depict any animate or inanimate object.

In the art of creating sculptures, there are two concepts: bas-relief and high relief. Their main difference is in the height of the figures. For example, if a fragment protrudes from the surface a little more than half of its volume, this is a high relief. In addition, the high relief elements are much higher, and some of them can be free-standing.

The bas-relief fits organically into the interior in any lighting (except very dim). High relief, on the contrary, requires only diffused light.

Advantages and disadvantages of bas-relief on the wall

Like other types of finishing work, the relief on the wall has its advantages and disadvantages. Among the special advantages is the ability to create images in almost any room. If all standards are observed in the process of drawing up and applying decorative ornaments, you can:

  • Mask errors in the wall, including significant differences;
  • You can create a whole panel and thereby occupy an empty wall;
  • Visually zone the room;
  • The ability to create unique compositions;
  • Individual interior with special charm;
  • If desired, the entire process can be carried out independently, without resorting to the services of a specialist.

Among the main disadvantages:

  • Having some experience, creativity and at least basic skills as an artist;
  • The process is labor-intensive, meticulous in drawing and performing the smallest details, which is why most often all work is entrusted to craftsmen. The cost of such work is quite high.

But still, if you have a lot of information with step-by-step instructions, you can create a high relief on the wall yourself. There would be desire and time.

The main types of materials from which the bas-relief is made

Initially, only stone or wood were used to create compositions. The modern choice of materials is much wider. Today's elements can be built by hand or by casting. For a bas-relief on the wall with your own hands, almost any material that can be cut or sculpted is suitable; it can be suitable for pouring into the appropriate form:

  • Gypsum;
  • Limestone;
  • Clay;
  • Polymer compounds;
  • Stone;
  • Tree;
  • Decorative and other similar compositions.

To artificially add age to elements, patina is applied to them. To give additional volume, they are coated with bronze or gold plated. At the same time, the bas-relief looks harmonious with forged iron and stone. That’s why fireplaces are often decorated with such decor.

Main types of designs for bas-relief

The first images of the bas-relief had to contain a human figure in their composition. This attribute is currently optional. The thematic focus, as well as the number of panels, dimensions depend on the total area of ​​the room.

These can be subject compositions that occupy an entire wall or only a small corner. Previously, it was assumed that relief three-dimensional images were relevant only for classical styles with their inherent soft lines and elaborate details. Several types of images are popular.

Nature (landscape)

This type of bas-relief is relevant not only for classics, art nouveau, modern, empire or rococo, but also for modern design trends. You can depict a small area of ​​forest or think over a seascape. These include coral fields, schools of fish, algae, and the image of a newt.

Sakura

The bas-reliefs of sakura on the wall belong to the Japanese flavor, which can be complemented by images of dragons. A branch of cherry blossoms looks organically on the hallway and kitchen floors. The whole tree has a bright personality. The living room especially benefits from this composition.

Rose

The association with flowers is immediately evoked by the bas-reliefs of roses on the wall. There are a great many options for its use, as well as varieties of flowers. In a bedroom with a classic design, relief panels with lush tea roses would be appropriate, not forgetting to paint them in the appropriate color. A scattering of small little roses will suit any room. Having chosen the right shade, such an ornament looks good with materials such as stone or textured brick.

Vine

The vine ornament will emphasize the sophistication of the Italian style. It can be used to decorate columns or empty niches. A white vine looks good on painted walls, and vice versa, a colored vine will serve as an accent on a white surface.

Apple trees

A bas-relief tree on the wall is equally suitable for any room. However, given its size, you need to treat the hallway with special care. A volumetric bas-relief in this part of the house can visually reduce the already small area of ​​the room.

And other possible options

The application of three-dimensional drawings on walls can have different themes. It all depends on the skills and practical experience of the master. The larger the panel with small details, the more complex and painstaking the work.

Necessary materials and tools for creating a bas-relief on the wall

To sculpt the walls in an apartment with your own hands, you will need specialized tools that can be purchased at art stores or construction markets. Experts advise choosing a ball, or rather half of it, as a container for mixing the solution. By turning it inside out, you can save time scraping and cleaning up the previous batch and preparing the next batch. In addition, it is very convenient to collect the solution from such a container, since it has no corners.

Palette knives are special spatulas in the form of spatulas of different shapes. To create some bas-relief elements, for example, a vine, you will need convex and concave palette knives. They cost more, so craftsmen often replace them with ordinary spoons of different configurations and volumes (coffee, tea, dessert, tablespoons).

Plastic spoons are easy to use. A little heat will help give the handle holder the desired shape.

As a rule, an aluminum spoon serves as the main tool, and a plastic spoon serves as an auxiliary one. An artist's knife is used to create fine texture in the image. Its analogue can be a regular shoe knife.

A pastry syringe with attachments, as well as a medical syringe that helps create very fine lines. Additionally, you will need 2 flat and 2 round brushes. Before each intake of the next portion of the mixture, instruments (except syringes) are first dipped in water.

Preparatory work before creating a bas-relief on the wall

At the preliminary stage, it is important to prepare the surface for the process. The wall should be cleaned of the previous coating. Leaving a layer of putty, prime and let dry thoroughly. In order to give additional strength to the bas-reliefs, self-tapping screws are inserted two-thirds in thicker areas. Flower petals and other similar parts are prepared from foam plastic (cardboard or salt dough) in advance, after which they are carefully treated with a primer.

Make the solution according to the included instructions. At this stage, it is very important to know the characteristics of a particular mixture. How long does it take for it to set, can dyes be added to it, and so on. If the bas-relief contains elements with a convexity of 10 millimeters or more, you need to make a wire frame (reinforcement). Ready-made molds are used to manufacture various elements. If they are not commercially available, you can make them yourself.

Stages of creating a bas-relief on the wall with your own hands

Craftsmen advise beginners to use ready-made cast parts, which only need to be attached to the surface. You can also form a convex pattern using a template.

  • A drawing is applied to the surface with a simple pencil. Without any special creative skills, you can use ready-made stencils, drawings applied to tracing paper, after which it is drawn on the surface with a marker. You can also outline the contours with a toothpick;
  • After the mixture has set, it is necessary to apply the outline of the ornament. Only after this is the volume increased. The putty should be applied to individual areas. Each subsequent layer is applied only after the previous one has completely dried;

In some cases, it is necessary to create an in-depth image. It can be done in two ways:

  1. Add a background layer around the image. At the end the background is sanded.
  2. Make recesses corresponding to the image using a chisel or chisel.
  • Covering the surface with ordinary transparent film, if necessary, draw details;
  • After the finished relief image has dried, it is painted in the desired shades;
  • Use sandpaper to remove unnecessary irregularities.

Features of creating bas-relief from different materials

Each material has its own processing characteristics. In interiors, plaster or wood is most often used.

Made of wood

To create a bas-relief from wood, in addition to the source material, you will need slightly other materials. Conical and end cutters. The first cutter is used for finishing the blade, the second - for rough work. For dimensional panels, high-precision equipment is used, including special programs.

From plaster

Gypsum is a very malleable material with good technical characteristics. Masters advise beginners to start with plaster. With the correct proportions, the solution is homogeneous with good adhesion.

Attaching the finished bas-relief to the wall

If you use a ready-made bas-relief, it must be attached to the wall or to a sheet of drywall. The second option is applicable if you plan to make the bas-relief removable.

It is necessary to create a single conglomerate between the image and the base, removing any errors. To attach a separate picture, you will need a special tile adhesive. If the image is large, then it is fixed using self-tapping screws and nails. The finished panel should be sanded using sandpaper. After cleaning all seams and depressions, the surface is primed and painted with water-based paint.

Creating such decor is initially difficult. It requires skill, patience and perseverance. To ensure high-quality images, you need to strictly follow the application technology. Otherwise, the structure will not be able to dry completely and will soon collapse.

Comments 0

Modern interiors are constantly being improved, updated with fresh ideas. Where do these ideas come from? Of course, from the historical past. Thus, bas-relief for walls, which belongs to one of the types of relief decoration, has become relevant in interior design. “Dream House” will share with its readers the features of using such decor in today’s interiors.

How reliefs were used in architecture and interiors

Decoration in the form of reliefs is a very ancient art, widespread since Paleolithic times. Then the reliefs were depicted on rocks and in caves. Gradually changing, they became decorations of castles, palaces and other architectural elements.

There are several types of relief. Bas-relief is a relief whose figures and elements protrude less than half. If more, then such a relief is called high relief.

A bas-relief on the wall is a great idea for diluting the boring design of rooms with monochromatic walls.

Materials and techniques for making bas-relief on the wall

Bas-reliefs are made from plaster, clay, plaster, wood, metal and other materials that can be poured or processed into the desired shape. It can perfectly disguise wires or imperfections such as unevenness on the walls and ceiling.

A wooden bas-relief that matches the style of the room and the color of the furniture will give it a strict appearance and add charm.

The bas-relief pattern can be both simple and complex, classic and abstract, bulky and miniature. The main motifs are images of animals and plants, abstraction or antique style.

You can make such a decoration yourself, having plaster, tools for work and, of course, imagination on hand. This will be much easier on the wallet, however, such work is very long and requires a lot of effort and attention. After finishing, wax, paint, gilding or other coating is applied to the finished relief.

If your abilities or time do not allow you to cope with this task yourself, then you should call a professional for help. He will take ideas and wishes into account and implement them in the specified place.

It should be noted that such pleasure is not cheap, but in the end you will get a completely unique exclusive that matches your dreams.

The use of bas-reliefs in the interior

The bas-relief goes well with such types of finishing materials as wood, glass, marble, metal (forging), leather, stone and others.

It highlights the main theme of the room and indicates accents. You can achieve a solemn atmosphere in the living room, create a more romantic atmosphere in the bedroom, and create the illusion of movement and dynamics in the corridors. Such an environment controls the mood and changes the impression.

To decorate the living room or bedroom, you can place a large bas-relief in an antique style on the wall. It will focus attention and be the center of the room. Or you can place complex abstract patterns on all the walls of the room. With the right lighting, the chiaroscuro on the walls will sparkle, and the interior will become vibrant and unique.

A recent fashion trend is decorating fireplaces with bas-relief. The heating element becomes a real work of art.

It is good to decorate simple and as well as various ones using lighting.

If the relief has large angular protrusions, then it would be nice to use them as additional shelves.

Small bas-reliefs can be used to decorate small rooms. For example, a small-sized image of an animal, plant patterns or still life will provide great variety.

Despite the complexity of creation, the bas-relief on the wall ennobles the room, giving it charm and sophistication. The interior looks rich with it. This design will give the home exclusivity, will delight the owner and pleasantly surprise guests.

Share with friends:
Related publications