Using an alginate mold and Plaster of Paris, I cast my index finger with a nail attached to it so that is can be displayed. The steps required to accomplish this are as follows:

1. Mix the alginate with water in a 1:4 weight ratio until a smooth paste is formed. Then, insert the finger to be molded into the alginate and hold until the alginate solidifies.
2. Once the alginate is solid, remove the finger carefully. Prepare and thoroughly mix POP and water in a 2:1 ratio. Pour this mix into the mold. Using tape, dip a nail’s head into the POP so that the nail is stuck into the POP when it solidifies.
3. Once POP is solid, remove the alginate mold from the cup and cut the alginate mold to release the casted finger. Insert the nail into a piece of foam and post-process the finger using spray paint.
4. Finish it by applying a clear coat.

Cost Estimation

1. Alginate Powder ($0.04/gram) = $4
2. Plaster of Paris ($0.02/gram) = $2
3. Water ~ Negligible ($5.94e-7/gram) = $0
4. Nails ($0.02/piece) = $0.06
5. Spray Paint ($0.017/mL)(10 mL) = $0.17
6. Clear Coat ($0.011/mL)(10 mL) = $0.11

Total Cost: $6.34