I do large art pieces using a gypsum based plaster on plywood or masonite. I need to find a material that is stronger, and less likely to chip. I use a trowel to apply my material to a thickness ot 1/2 to 3/4 inch. I am wondering if fresco plaster would give me the strenght I am looking for while not sacrificing the flow, flexibility and surface smoothness of the material I am currently using. Strenght, weight, durability and vicosity (peanut butter-like) are all concerns. Anyone have any suggestions?

Cross reference my notes on magnesite.

It is all about manipulating the plasticity of materials. All plasters and cements may be manipulated, but modern materials are typical designed to set very quickly, to suit industrial processes - thats were the money is. Old materials were not this way. If you had to stay on a job until 8 o'clock at night to trowel polish a surface - well - thats just the was it was. If you came back the next morning - too late, too sad.

Are you a carver or a modeller - that is the question - do you like to build up or take away. I know everybody uses both techniques - but what is faster for you?