Introduction
A Pregnancy Cast (bellymask or bellycast) is a uniquely collaborative art form combining plaster casting — and — painting. The process is inclusive from the very start, with Rose actively listening to her client's thoughts and ideas about her pregnancy, what it means to be an expectant mother, and what will ultimately become a lovingly rendered memento to share with her child and family.

About the Process
Rose ensures that the mask making process is a private, relaxing experience. Many have compared the casting process favorably to what one might encounter during a soothing massage at a spa. Created in a simple 1 hour process, she applies warm, plaster-gauze strips to the woman’s belly, and, if desired, her breasts. Shoulders, or hands on belly, may also be included. Molding and smoothing the gauze, Rose sculpts an exact likeness of the woman’s form. A popular cast is one where the father is included in the process and his arm and hand is cast along with one of the woman’s. All is based on honoring the beauty of pregnancy and the client’s needs.

When the plaster is set, she gently releases the cast and the woman can view the beauty of her own pregnant form. Finally Theresa applies several coats of gesso, strengthening the cast permanently and preparing it for embellishment.

Rose's art and design background enables her to help women visualize imagery for their masks, making the woman's vision
a reality. It's a wonderfully collaborative process, bringing the mother's desired image to life, as she prepares to bring new life
into the world.

Reasons for a Pregnancy Casting
Pregnancy Casts are profoundly personal statements about a woman's pregnancy. Although every woman is different, many share the following reasons for wanting a Pregnancy Cast:
• A unique memento of a woman's pregnancy,
• A celebration of a first, last, or any pregnancy,
• Loving proof to children that their mothers were proud and happy to be pregnant,
• An empowering statement about the beauty of the pregnant form and pregnant woman,
• A way to involve family in the birth process by having them decorate the mask,
• Incorporate into the modern-day ritual (e.g. baby shower, fixing up the nursery, pregnancy photography, etc.)
• A creative, artistic means for women to express their feelings toward pregnancy and motherhood.

Which reason will yours be?