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I create models ranging from precisely executed dinnerware shapes, based on mechanical drawings, to sculptural projects requiring more invention and interpretation.
These models generally fall into two categories:
Design models, which are used for studying, evaluating, and presenting designs, for communicating with distant factories, or for market research
Tooling models, which are master patterns from which molds are made
I have spent many years developing skills and techniques, collecting and constructing tools and equipment, and organizing my studio. The goal has been to enable me to make beautiful and precise plaster models, quickly and efficiently, from this wonderfully versatile material.
In my studio, plaster is poured in molds, wet formed with templates, turned on the wheel or the lathe, and machined with various sawing, sanding, and milling machines. Sculptural shapes are modelled in clay, waste molded, and then reproduced in plaster for refinement and detailing. Projects involving complex relief decoration often require many hours of patient hand carving.
The work of the plaster shop is complemented by skills and equipment for working with other materials, including wood, ceramics, sheet plastics, silicone rubber, and urethane resin.
 
Dansk International Designs
Plaster presentation models of dinnerware shapes. Design: V. Lorenzo Porcelli
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Val St. Lambert
Plaster tooling model and crystal product. Design: Katherine De Sousa
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Dansk International Designs
Plaster models-examples of relief
decoration on dinnerware forms.
"Floating Leaves", Scott Morrison;
"Origami", C.L.Harper;
"Rondure", Niels Refsgaard
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Wilton/Armetale
Aluminum alloy giftware. Design: Katherine De Sousa.
I have made many master models for "alternative metals" products,
for Wilton/Armetale, Dansk, and Nambe.
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Steuben Glass
Examples of Steuben pieces for which I made the master patterns. In this
process, I make an original model, and then a master pattern in hydrostone or
rubber. In the factory, single-use refractory molds are cast from these
patterns, crystal blanks are melted into the molds, and the pieces are then
cut and finished.
"Corning/Fountainbleu Award" - Design: Joel Smith
"Cross"- Design: Peter Drobny and Lyle Luce
"Star-Spangled Banner"- Design: David Dowler
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