Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What does Soft Stone consist of?

A:  It is a composite mixture made of a number of materials.


Q:  Are the components readily available?

A:   Most of the components are readily available. One of the components is non comecial item and is only available at the workshop or through us.  A bag costs less than $20 and is sufficient for 4 average size sculptures. During the workshop you will be provided with details of the components.


Q:  What if I have no creative talent?

A:   You don't need to have any creative or artistic talent to create great works with Soft Stone. We provide you with lots of examples and ideas to get you started. During the workshop we also step you through the design process and show you how to design a sculpture.


Q :  Are there any restrictions on what I can do?

A:   You can create just about any form your creativity leads you to. There are a few constraints that you will be told about at the workshop but you can create just about anything.


Q:  Is this like Hebel?

A:  This is NOT Hebel (lightweight aerated cement blocks). Everyone who has been to our workshops who has used Hebel blocks as a sculpting medium has stated that this is significantly better than Hebel.  They have commented they would never go back to Hebel.


 The advantages of using Soft Stone are:

  •  There is usually no need to wear dust masks, as the dust level is minimal.

  •  The material is far more forgiving - you can easily repair mistakes and add other materials.

  •  It is far easier to use and is not as strenuous on your neck and shoulders.

  •  You can embed colour within the work and create water features.

  •  There is significantly more flexibility in the size of the sculpture you can create.

  •  The material weathers far better (finished sculptures can be left outside indefinitely and are almost indestructible).


Q: What do I get in attending the workshop?

A:  You learn a great new form of art, you make a sculpture that you can take home and you have a really fun day!


Q: Is it expensive to create sculptures afterwards?

A:  The materials used to create an average size sculpture cost approx. $10-20. You can fill your home and garden with sculptures for under $200.  You can create sculptures for your loved ones or those special people in your life. They are inexpensive to you but priceless to them.


Q:  Do I need to "fire" my sculpture?

A:   Unlike clay and some other mediums there is no need for expensive kilns or elaborate firing procedures. Soft Stone Sculptures set naturally and after 2-3 days they can be safety placed outside.


Q:  What tools do I need?

A:   All tools and materials are provided at the workshop.  If you want to create sculptures after the workshop there are no expensive tools to buy.


Q:  How big are the sculptures?

A:   At the workshop you will get to design, create and take home your own sculpture  (approximately 40 cm tall). After the workshop there is virtually no limit how big or small you can make your sculptures.


Q:  Are they suitable for outdoors?

A:   You can place the sculptures outside.  They require no special treatment.


Q:  How long will they last?

A:   A life time either indoors or outdoors.  The sculptures set naturally and there is no need for any kilns or special drying equipment.


Q:  Are there any age restrictions?

A:   We have had people from 10 - 91 years old doing the workshops. We have even taught a lady in a wheelchair and a man who had recently undergone major heart surgery. However, children under the age of 14 should be acompanied by parents or carers. (Parent and carers require a separate booking)


Q:   Is it easy to work with?

A:   The great thing about this medium is that it is very easy for everyone to learn. When we sculpt it has a consistency similar to cheddar cheese.  If you can cut cheese you can do this!!!.


Q:  Can I colour the pieces?

A:  You can paint your sculpture or you can add colour into the mix.  At the workshop we advise you of some of the colouring techniques and show you some of the effects that can be created.


Q:  What other things can I do with this medium?

A:   There are a wide variety of things you can do and finishes you can create. Among the many finishes you can do include adding glass, glass beads, mosaics, and tea light candles.


Q:   Are there any precautions I need to take?

A:    Whilst the material and methods are known to be safe, common sense and care is encouraged. During the workshop you will be advised on best practices. We recommend wearing closed shoes


 © Soft Stone Sculptures Pty Ltd - 2006