Expert: Eileen Cronk - 9/1/2008

Question
would like to save frame if possible and hope you may know how  thanks  les

Answer
Hi Les
Nice to hear from you.
I have fixed a few of these in my day but not sure if I do it according to Hoyle LOL.
So I take it the plaster is cracked with missing small pieces..correct?
I just use a tube of a product called "Poly Fil".
Its really only dry wall compound in a tube like toothpaste and goes by many names.
Fill the cracks as best you can. I use my finger for smoothing it or a small brush.
On small missing areas just apply a glob and using whatever small tools you need to slightly duplicate the pattern.
Its really only "fool the eye".
After its painted it will not be noticed.
If there are huge missing areas, its another matter.
On these areas you must make a mold of an identical intact area, then form the new piece with plaster in this mold, then try to get it onto the frame without ruining other areas...a real miserable job and you will appreciate my method if you ever attempt this one.
Good Luck
Eileen