How to Get a Flawless Finish on Your Jesmonite Projects
Jesmonite is an incredibly versatile material loved by creators for its smooth finish, durability, and eco-friendly qualities. But achieving that perfect finish doesn’t happen by accident—it’s all about following the right techniques from start to finish.
Whether you’re a seasoned Jesmonite creator or just starting your crafting journey, these six essential tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your projects come out smooth, clean, and flawless every time.
Let’s dive in!
1. Use a High-Shear Mixing Blade for a Smooth Mixture
A smooth, lump-free mix is the foundation of a flawless Jesmonite project. Lumps or unevenly mixed ingredients can lead to imperfections, air pockets, and an inconsistent surface texture.
Why it matters: A high-shear mixing blade efficiently breaks up clumps and fully incorporates both liquid and dry ingredients.
Pro Tip: Use a paddle mixer attached to a drill for larger batches, and mix at a steady, moderate speed to prevent introducing air bubbles into the mixture.
Investing in the right mixing tools is one of the best ways to ensure professional-quality results.
2. Add Dry Ingredients to Wet
When mixing Jesmonite, always add your dry base to the liquid—not the other way around.
Why it matters: Pouring liquid onto dry ingredients can trap air and create stubborn lumps. Adding dry to wet ensures even hydration and smoother consistency.
Pro Tip: Pour the base gradually into the liquid while mixing continuously. Think of it like adding flour to cake batter!
Smooth mixing means fewer surface imperfections—and less sanding later on.
3. Mix Pigments into Wet Ingredients First
Getting your color just right is an art—and trying to mix pigments into Jesmonite once the dry base has been added is a race against time.
Why it matters: Pigments mix more evenly with liquid, giving you full control over your color before the curing process begins.
Pro Tip: Always mix a little more pigment than you think you’ll need. Matching colors across multiple batches can be tricky.
Slow down, get your color perfect, and then proceed confidently to the next step.
4. Start with a Clean, Dry Mold 
Jesmonite is highly detailed—it picks up everything, including specks of dust, stray fibers, or moisture lingering in your mold.
Why it matters: Even the smallest imperfection in the mold can transfer to your final project.
Pro Tip: Use a lint-free cloth to wipe molds clean and ensure they’re 100% dry before pouring. If you’re reusing molds, a quick spritz of mold release spray can make demolding easier.
Treat your mold like a canvas—it sets the stage for your final masterpiece.
5. Don’t Leave Your Project in the Mold Too Long
It’s tempting to leave your Jesmonite piece in the mold while you focus on other tasks, but timing is crucial.
Why it matters: Leaving Jesmonite in the mold for more than an hour can lead to surface staining or marks from residual moisture.
Pro Tip: Set a timer and stick to it. Most projects are ready to demold after about 45 minutes to an hour.
Patience is key, but so is punctuality when it comes to demolding!
6. Demold and Cure in a Dry Space
Demolding is exciting, but your project isn’t finished just yet. Proper curing ensures strength, durability, and a flawless final finish.
Why it matters: Handling your project too much while it’s still curing can lead to smudges, warping, or fingerprints.
Pro Tip: Find a flat, dry space for your project to cure for 24 hours. Avoid humid environments, as excess moisture can affect the finish.
“Set it and forget it” isn’t just for cooking—it’s essential for Jesmonite curing too!
Final Thoughts
Every step in your Jesmonite process matters. From mixing to curing, the right techniques will set you up for consistently beautiful results. Whether you’re making planters, coasters, or large-scale terrazzo tables, following these six tips will help your projects shine—literally and figuratively.
For more creative inspiration, expert tips, and step-by-step guides, follow us on Instagram @ftc.creative!
Happy creating! 🌈
