Mold making and Casting products through EnvironMolds, LLC

From the foam in your mattress to the protective coating on hardwood floors and insulation of car parts, polyurethane plays a major role in everyday life. However, not many people are familiar with what polyurethane is and the different forms it can take.

Polyurethane: things to know

Polyurethane is a complex material that comprises a polypol and reacts with various additives and catalysts. However, difference in diocyanates and polypols make the structure of polyurethane different and hence it is suitable for different applications. Typically, it is a plastic that can be flexible at times and rigid at other times.

Benefits of polyurethane

Here are the key benefits of polyurethane you need to know:

• Resistance to abrasion

Polyurethane is the perfect choice for purposes where protection against wear and tear is needed despite low temperatures. No wonder they have been excessively used for those environments that are highly abrasive due to their ability to resist abrasion. No other plastics, elastomers, or metals show better resistance compared to polyurethane. It is estimated to be almost ten times better than any other material can provide.

• Durability and versatility

It can be manufactured in varied densities and hardness levels like elastic, solid, or foam, making it ideal for a variety of applications. No matter where it is used as floor coating or insulation foam, it is best-known for its resistance to abrasion, wear, and harsh environmental conditions.

• Lightweight

Despite the strength and durability of polyurethane material, it is lightweight, especially in the form of foam, making it an appropriate choice for aerospace and automotive industries to reduce overall weight and improve fuel efficiency.

• Chemical resistance

Polyurethane resists oil, grease, solvents, and other chemicals, which is critical in industrial applications where exposure is common.

• Resilience

Polyurethane is the perfect choice for elastomer applications that are known to absorb shock.  With high vibration frequency or the ability for quick recovery, it is indeed a very tough material.

Types of polyurethane materials

1. Flexible polyurethane foam

It is soft foam that is often found in everyday items.

Applications:

• Furniture cushions
• Bedding (mattresses, mattress toppers)
• Automotive seating
• Packaging

It is lightweight, soft, and returns to its original shape after compression. Its cushioning properties make it perfect for comfort-based applications.

2. Rigid polyurethane foam

It is closed-cell foam with high insulation value.

Applications:

• Building insulation (walls, roofs)
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Water heaters

It is known for exceptional thermal resistance and structural strength. It helps reduce energy costs and contributes to a building’s overall energy efficiency.

3. Polyurethane coatings and sealants

It is Liquid-based polyurethane that hardens into a protective coating.

Applications:

• Wood flooring
• Automotive paint
• Industrial machinery protection
• Marine environments

It is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and UV exposure and enhances the life and appearance of surfaces by forming a protective layer.

4. Thermoplastic polyurethane

 A type of polyurethane that behaves like plastic and can be melted and reshaped.

Applications:

• Phone cases
• Medical tubing
• Footwear
• Sporting goods

It is elastic, abrasion-resistant, and recyclable. TPU offers the flexibility of rubber with the processing ability of plastic, making it ideal for complex designs.

Polyurethane types – Ether and Ester

Ether-based polyurethanes are made with polyether polyols, allowing them superior moisture and hydrolysis resistance. Here are the properties:

• They are ideal for applications exposed to water, humidity, or outdoor elements.
• They also maintain flexibility in low temperatures, which is beneficial for environments with wide temperature fluctuations.
• Due to their resistance to microbial attack and environmental degradation, ether-based polyurethanes are commonly used in medical devices, marine applications, and outdoor cushioning products.
• They offer moderate abrasion and chemical resistance and tend to be more expensive than ester-based options

Ester-based polyurethanes are made with polyester polyols, are known for their high mechanical strength, tear resistance, and excellent abrasion performance.

• They are suitable for industrial applications where components are subject to heavy wear and require contact with oils, fuels, or solvents, as esters are more chemically resistant in those conditions.
• However, ester polyurethanes are less resistant to moisture and hydrolysis, which means they can degrade faster in humid or wet environments. They also tend to become stiffer in cold temperatures.
• Due to low-cost and strong physical performance, ester-based polyurethanes are widely used in the manufacturing of belts, seals, wheels, rollers, and coatings.

Polyurethane is truly one of the most adaptable materials in the modern world. Its unique properties make it an essential part of modern manufacturing and daily life. Whether you're an artist, educator, or industrial designer, Environ Molds offers the high-quality molding and casting supplies you need to turn ideas into reality. From lifecasting materials to professional-grade silicones and resins, we provide safe, reliable products trusted by creators worldwide. Click here https://www.artmolds.com/  to shop now.

 

 

This infographic highlights the surprising everyday applications of alginate, from food and beverages to dentistry, medicine, cosmetics, and mold making. Learn how this versatile natural material is used as a thickener in ice cream, an essential in dental impressions, a wound-healing agent, a skincare ingredient, and a safe molding material for lifecasting and arts. Discover why alginate is everywhere in your daily life!

 

Are you keen to try your hands for making your own jewelry, decorations, game pieces or tiny figures?  For beginners, resin casting is an excellent way to begin. While preparing these craft items, you can create duplicates of various small items. However, if you have just stepped into the world of resin casting, the biggest dilemma you may have is when choosing between epoxy and polyurethane resin casting. Even though both are durable, versatile, and widely used in DIY projects, industrial applications, and art, differences still exist.

So, which is the best resin casting for beginners? Let us break down the pros, cons, and ideal uses of these materials.

What is epoxy resin casting?

Epoxy resin is a two-fold system comprising a hardener and a resin. When both are combined, a chemical reaction takes place and begins to harden. This material is known for a long working time, high-gloss finish, and strong adhesion. No wonder epoxy resin casting is the trusted aide for your crafting adventures. This process is commonly used for the following:

• Resin jewelry and art
• Encapsulations like objects or flowers in resin
• River tables and tabletop coatings
• DIY crafts and home décor

You just need to get it from reputable online suppliers or the stores in your area before starting the project.

What is polyurethane resin casting?

Polyurethane resin is also a two-fold system but cures faster than epoxy and tailored for flexible and mechanical properties. Naturally, polyurethane resin casting is frequently used in the following:

• Casting and mold making
• Industrial parts and prototypes
• Flexible and rigid figures or props

While polyurethane has multiple strengths, it is not as forgiving as epoxy.

Key differences between polyurethane and epoxy resin casting

Features	Epoxy Resin	Polyurethane Resin
Cure Time	Slow – hours to days	Fast – Minutes
Work Time	Long – 20-60 minutes	Short – 2-15 minutes
Finish	Clear, glossy, and UV-resistant	Amber-tinted

 

Features	Epoxy Resin	Polyurethane Resin
Flexibility	Rigid	Rigid to highly flexible
Durability	Highly durable, chemical and moisture-resistant	Durable but tends to vary by formulation
Ease of use	Appropriate for beginners	Fast cure can be challenging
Toxicity/ Smell	Low odor and safer with ventilation	Strong odor and may need respirator
Cost	Expensive	Cheaper per volume

 

Why epoxy resin is good for beginners?

Here is why epoxy resin casting is a preferred method for beginners:

Longer working time

One of the biggest advantages of epoxy resin is its generous working time; you have almost twenty to sixty minutes to pour, mix, and manipulate the resin before it begins curing. That way, beginners have a lot of time to:

• Correct mistakes
• Add colors or inclusions
• Avoid panic or rushing

Polyurethane resins, on the other hand begins setting as early as two minutes, leaving you with little margin for error.

Clear and glossy finish

If you are making jewelry, art, or decorative pieces, the high-gloss and clear finish comes as a huge benefit. Polyurethane resins, on the other hand, often produce a matte surface when specific additives are not used.

Easy to find guides and supplies

Epoxy resin is a more popular material and hence you may come across pre-packaged kits, tutorials for beginners, and step-by-step guides online. Besides, there is a huge selection of accessories to choose from like molds, color pigments, and tools tailored to epoxy crafting.

Safe for use

Even though users need to follow precautionary measures while handling all kinds of resins, epoxy has mild odor and almost no harmful fumes compared to polyurethane. No wonder epoxy resin is labeled safe for indoor use.

Can beginners use polyurethane resin?

Polyurethane resin is not off-limits for first-times. It requires a bit more preparation and caution. So, as a beginner, you can reliably use polyurethane resin casting for:

• Detailed molds like props, miniatures, and figurines
• Quick turnaround time
• Projects that require rubber-like and flexible materials

However, the learning curve for polyurethane resin is steeper and you need to have proper safety gear for protecting the eyes, a well-ventilated workspace, and a respirator.

How to get started with epoxy and polyurethane resin?

Here is how to get started with epoxy resin and polyurethane resin:

Epoxy resin

• Start with a simple kit from a reputable brand
• Use silicone molds for easy demolding
• Resin and hardener must be mixed at the correct ratio
• Mix slowly to avoid bubbles
• Cure in a dust-free and warm area

Polyurethane resin

• Prepare everything before mixing as it cures very fast
• Use mold release spray to protect molds
• Be prepared to work fast and clean
• Always use a respirator and work in a ventilated area

When it comes to resin casting for beginners, epoxy is the unanimous choice. From longer working time to aesthetic results and ease of use makes it an ideal choice. When you are familiar with resin work and ready to experiment with faster cures, it might be the right time to work with polyurethane.

Explore high-quality, beginner-friendly resin and mold-making supplies from EnvironMolds. Whether you are starting your first epoxy project or looking to experiment with polyurethane casting, we've got everything you need to bring your ideas to life. Visit https://www.artmolds.com/ to shop for the supplies.

 

Small-scale businesses today are increasingly into sustainable, cost-effective, and versatile materials. Among the rest that is gaining immense popularity among small manufacturers is natural latex rubber. It is an eco-friendly and highly functional material offering a wide range of applications.

Let us explore why latex mold for business is a smart move both environmentally and economically:

Reasons for small businesses to switch to latex mold

Sustainability and eco-friendliness

More and more businesses are moving toward sustainable manufacturing practices and natural latex rubber fits perfectly into that switch. Unlike synthetic rubbers, which are petroleum-based and non-biodegradable, natural latex is renewable, biodegradable, and harvested sustainably.

Rubber trees can be tapped for over twenty years without being cut down. This makes natural latex a resource that does not deplete the environment. For small businesses dealing with small-scale mold production and committed to green practices, using natural latex not only reduces environmental impact but also appeals to eco-conscious customers.

Cost-effective for small batches

One of the biggest challenges for small-scale manufacturers is balancing quality with cost-efficiency. Natural latex rubber offers an excellent value proposition. Thanks to its high elasticity, strength, and durability. Therefore, less material is often needed to produce high-performing products. This means less cost per unit which is viable when you are not producing in massive volumes.

Excellent durability and tear resistance

Despite its natural composition, latex rubber is highly durable. It resists tear, abrasion, and wear and have those qualities that are essential in manufacturing industries like:

• Gloves and tubing in healthcare
• Gaskets and bushing in automotive
• Footwear, mattresses, balloons in consumer goods

This durability reduces product returns, improves customer satisfaction, and enhances brand trust and crucial factors for small businesses looking to build a loyal customer base.

Easy to mold and process

Natural latex rubber is easy to mold, shape, and cure, especially in small production runs. With relatively low setup costs, it is ideal for small-scale mold production techniques like:

• Dipping
• Foaming
• Compression molding
• Extrusion and calendaring

The ease of processing reduces labor time and tooling costs when working with limited resources and manpower.

Add value to your brand

With consumers becoming more environmentally conscious, using biodegradable materials like natural latex can give your business a strong competitive edge.

Marketing your mold making supplies latex as natural, eco-friendly or biodegradable not only differentiates your brand but also aligns with global sustainability trends. It opens up opportunities for certifications, eco-labeling, and partnerships with environmentally-focused retailers.

Multiple applications

Natural latex rubber is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for small businesses catering to niche markets or diverse product lines. Some key applications include:

• Textile and Fashion: Elastic bands, threads, and accessories
• Medical and Hygiene: Gloves, catheters, and masks
• Sports and Fitness: Resistance bands, grips, and mats
• Toys and Crafts: Eco-friendly balloons, dolls, and art supplies
• Footwear: Insoles, soles, and padding

This versatility allows small manufacturers to diversify their offerings without switching materials or changing suppliers drastically.

For small-scale manufacturers looking for a material that combines sustainability, performance, and versatility, natural latex rubber is an excellent choice. It not only helps reduce costs and improve product quality but also enhances your brand’s image in an increasingly green-conscious market.

At Art Mold, we believe that great creations start with the right materials. Whether you are a small-scale manufacturer, an artisan, or a passionate DIYer, our mold making supplies latex offers the flexibility, precision, and eco-friendliness you need to bring your ideas to life. Visit https://www.artmolds.com/ to explore our full range of products.

 

In the world of mold making, achieving precision, consistency, and professional-grade results is everything. Whether you’re casting plaster, concrete, resin, or other materials, air bubbles and uneven settling can compromise the quality of your finished piece. That’s where a Vibrating Table becomes a game-changer for mold makers of all levels.

What Is a Vibrating Table?

A Vibrating Table is a simple yet powerful piece of equipment designed to eliminate air bubbles and help casting materials flow more evenly into molds. By applying controlled vibration, it allows the material to settle uniformly, reducing voids and imperfections that would otherwise require additional work or lead to rejected pieces.

One of the most versatile options on the market is the General Purpose Vibrating Table, which is specifically designed for studios that work with a variety of casting materials. It provides the flexibility needed for both small-scale projects and more demanding mold-making applications.

Why Mold Makers Need It

Here are some of the biggest advantages of adding a vibrating table to your studio:

1. Flawless Casts

Air bubbles are the bane of every mold maker’s existence. A vibrating table helps release trapped air, ensuring smooth surfaces and clean details in every cast.

2. Time & Cost Savings

Without proper vibration, molds may require rework, repairs, or complete remakes. By using a vibrating table, you save time and materials, which translates directly into lower costs.

3. Professional-Level Precision

For mold makers selling products or working on client commissions, consistency is essential. A vibrating table ensures each piece meets high-quality standards, every time.

4. Versatility Across Materials

From concrete stepping stones to intricate resin art pieces, the General Purpose Vibrating Table is capable of handling a wide variety of casting applications. This makes it a valuable long-term investment for any studio.

5. Ease of Use

Operating a vibrating table requires minimal training. Simply place your mold on the surface, pour your material, and let the vibrations do the work. It’s an instant upgrade to your workflow without adding unnecessary complexity.

A Studio Essential

For mold making studios serious about quality and efficiency, investing in a General Purpose Vibrating Table isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. The difference in cast quality, reduced rework, and professional results make it one of the most practical tools you can add to your workspace.

If you’re ready to take your mold making to the next level, consider integrating a vibrating table into your process. It’s a small change that delivers big results.

 

Introduction: A Clear View of Ballistics in Action

Imagine watching a bullet’s path unfold in real time—entering a lifelike torso, carving a channel through soft tissue, and leaving behind visible evidence of its energy and impact. With the Clear Ballistic Gel Torso, that once-invisible process becomes completely transparent. Unlike opaque alternatives, this innovation lets researchers, educators, and enthusiasts see the story of ballistic impact as it happens.

What It Is & Why It Matters

The Clear Ballistic Gel Torso, offered by EnvironMolds, is a synthetic ballistic medium designed to simulate human tissue. Traditional ballistic gelatin has long been a staple in testing, but it comes with limitations: short shelf life, lack of clarity, and single-use restrictions. By contrast, the clear gel torso is reusable, temperature-stable, non-toxic, and—most importantly—transparent.

According to Wikipedia, ballistic gelatin is used worldwide to study bullet behavior in soft tissue. The Clear Ballistic Gel Torso enhances this by providing an anatomically accurate, torso-shaped medium that replicates the male upper body. This combination of clarity and realism takes ballistic testing dummies to a new level.

Design & Technical Specs

The torso is precision-crafted with a V-shaped athletic male form, complete with molded arms, shoulders, and neck for realistic gear testing. Its flat back design ensures stability when placed on a range or testing surface, and it can be set up vertically or horizontally depending on the experiment.

Key specifications from EnvironMolds:

• Dimensions: 20″ height × 18″ width × 9″ depth

• Weight: Approximately 72 lbs

• Material: Transparent, synthetic ballistic gelatin

• Mold System: Durable polycarbonate mold lined with silicone, engineered to withstand multiple reuses

This combination of thoughtful design and rugged engineering makes the torso both lifelike and highly functional for repeated ballistic evaluations.

Calibration & Accuracy

Ballistic gel must meet strict calibration standards to ensure valid testing. According to Wikipedia, FBI protocols use a .177 caliber steel BB at ~590 fps to test penetration depth, ensuring the gel mimics human muscle density.

The Clear Ballistic Gel Torso is formulated to meet these FBI calibration requirements, meaning results are scientifically reliable. Whether testing penetration, fragmentation, or energy transfer, the torso delivers trustworthy data every time.

Use Cases

The torso is more than a shooting medium—it’s a multipurpose tool for professionals and educators. As highlighted by EnvironMolds, some of its key applications include:

• Forensic science training: Teaching wound ballistics with visible impact channels.

• Firearms testing: Evaluating bullet performance, penetration, and fragmentation.

• Protective gear testing: Assessing vests, shields, and tactical equipment.

• Law enforcement demonstrations: Showing the public or trainees exactly how weapons behave.

• Content creation & education: Used by YouTubers, researchers, and science communicators to bring ballistic testing to life.

In short, it’s one of the most versatile ballistic testing dummies available.

Care & Maintenance

To preserve clarity and functionality, proper maintenance is key. Clear Ballistics recommends:

• Cleaning after each test—rinsing or wiping away debris.

• Removing bullets/fragments carefully to prevent internal clouding.

• Storing in a clean, sealed space away from dust and dirt.

• Refreshing clarity by gently heating the surface when necessary.

These steps extend the lifespan of the torso and maintain its crystal-clear transparency for reliable results

Comparisons with Alternatives

While the Clear Ballistic Gel Torso offers unique advantages, it’s worth noting how it stacks up against other ballistic testing dummies:

• Ballistic Dummy Lab Torsos: Made from organic gel, often with optional bones and blood effects for cinematic realism. However, they are not reusable and decompose over time.

• Clear Ballistics “Joe Fit” Torso: Similar in material to EnvironMolds’ torso, designed for clarity and reusability, but with slight differences in form and pricing.

In comparison, the EnvironMolds Clear Ballistic Gel Torso combines professional-grade clarity with anatomical accuracy, making it an excellent balance between realism and practicality.

Conclusion

The Clear Ballistic Gel Torso represents a breakthrough in the world of ballistic testing dummies. Its transparency reveals impact paths in stunning detail, its durability ensures long-term value, and its design provides lifelike anatomical accuracy. Whether for forensic science, law enforcement, firearms testing, or educational content, it sets a new benchmark in ballistic testing technology.

By making the invisible visible, this torso doesn’t just simulate human tissue—it redefines how we understand and study ballistics.

Creating jewelry is one of the most personal and fulfilling forms of artistic expression. Today, many hobbyists and crafters are turning to casting materials like plaster of Paris to make unique and lightweight jewelry and charms. Its adaptability, fine texture, and capacity to capture detail make it an ideal medium for wearable art.

Whether you are new to jewelry making or an experienced artisan, learning the process of mixing plaster of Paris correctly is key to achieving smooth, durable, and beautiful results. In this guide, we walk you through the entire process from understanding what plaster of Paris is to finishing your handcrafted charms for everyday wear.

Understanding the Material: What Is Plaster of Paris?

Commonly known by its chemical name, calcium sulfate hemihydrate, plaster of Paris is produced by heating natural gypsum to eliminate its water content. When rehydrated with water, it forms a creamy paste that sets rapidly into a solid structure. This property allows for fast, accurate molding of objects, including jewelry.

Due to its ability to replicate minute details, it has become a go-to material in art studios, classrooms, and homes for sculpture, mold-making, and decorative crafts. ArtMolds offers a high-purity formulation that ensures superior definition and smoothness in casting projects, especially small items like jewelry.

Preparing to Craft: What You Will Need.

Before starting the casting process, it is important to gather all necessary materials and set up a well-organized, controlled workspace. Choose a flat surface, wear protective gloves, and keep your tools clean. You will need:

• Measuring containers for water and powder
• A mixing bowl and spatula
• Jewelry-grade silicone molds
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Acrylic or metallic paints
• Sealing sprays or finishing resin

Using top-quality supplies such as those from ArtMolds will improve your results and reduce the chances of cracking or surface imperfections.

Mixing Plaster of Paris: Achieving the Ideal Consistency

The success of your jewelry casting begins with correctly mixing plaster of Paris. Start by pouring water into a clean mixing bowl. Gradually sprinkle the plaster powder into the water, rather than adding water to the powder. This technique helps reduce air bubbles and promotes a smooth, consistent mixture.The optimal ratio is typically two parts plaster to one part water. Stir slowly with a spatula until the mixture becomes smooth and pourable. Avoid over-mixing, which may cause early setting or compromise strength.

Plaster sets quickly- often in under 15 minutes- so work efficiently. When you use plaster from ArtMolds, you're working with a formulation designed for consistency, detail retention, and minimal shrinkage.

Pouring and Setting: Capturing Your Design

Once your mixture is ready, carefully pour it into your silicone molds. Gently tap the mold to remove trapped air and distribute the mixture evenly. Choose molds featuring sharp edges and detailed cavities to produce jewelry pieces rich in character and visual appeal.

Allow the mold to rest undisturbed while the plaster sets. Initial hardening takes about 30 minutes, but full curing may require 24 hours depending on thickness, humidity, and temperature. Do not demold until the piece is completely firm to avoid surface damage.

Finishing Your Pieces: From Raw Cast to Ready-to-Wear

After demolding, inspect the charm or pendant for rough edges or excess plaster. Use fine sandpaper to refine the surface. Take your time during this stage, especially if you plan to paint or seal the piece.

Painting plaster jewelry adds personality and polish. You can use acrylic paints for bold color, metallics for elegance, or watercolors for subtle hues. Let the paint dry thoroughly before applying a clear sealant. Finishing sprays or resin coatings give the piece shine and protect it from moisture and wear.

Adding findings such as jump rings, hooks, or cords transforms your plaster charms into earrings, pendants, or keychains. Consider embedding a loop into the cast before it sets for easier assembly.

Design Ideas and Inspiration

The creative potential with plaster of Paris jewelry is endless. You can personalize your pieces with pressed flowers, metallic leaf, pigment powders, or texture stamps. Charms shaped like initials, geometric forms, or nature-inspired motifs work beautifully with this medium.

Many crafters also explore themed collections- such as zodiac signs, holiday pieces, or miniature keepsakesoffering opportunities to gift or sell one-of-a-kind items.

Why Choose ArtMolds Products for Jewelry Making?

With decades of experience in life casting and mold-making, Artmolds provides professional-grade materials trusted by artists and educators worldwide. Their plaster of Paris is refined to ensure exceptional workability, quick setting times, and consistent results.

Whether you are just starting out or an experienced artisan, ArtMolds provides the dependable quality and performance your creative work demands. Their extensive catalog includes everything you need to get startedfrom molding compounds to protective finishesall backed by expert support and detailed guides.

Conclusion: Craft Your Vision with Confidence

Handmade jewelry has emotional value that mass-produced items simply cannot match. By learning how to work with plaster of Paris, you unlock a new way to express your creativity and produce meaningful art you can wear, gift, or share.

From understanding what is plaster of Paris to mastering the art of mixing plaster of Paris, each step in this journey brings your design closer to life. With support from ArtMolds, you can confidently transform raw materials into finely crafted charms that tell your story.

FAQs: Plaster Jewelry Crafting

1. Can I use plaster jewelry every day?

Plaster jewelry is lightweight and decorative, but it is best worn occasionally. Using a sealant helps safeguard the piece against moisture and everyday wear.

2. What types of molds are best for casting plaster jewelry?

Silicone molds are ideal because they capture fine detail and allow for easy removal without damaging the cast.

3. How do I color plaster jewelry?

You can paint the surface after curing or add pigment to the wet plaster. Use non-toxic acrylic paints for best results.

4. Is plaster of Paris skin-friendly?

After it has completely cured and been properly sealed, it is safe to wear. However, always check that paints and finishes are labeled skin safe.

5. Can I make multi-colored charms?

Yes. Layer different colored batches of plaster or paint your casted jewelry in multiple shades for a vibrant effect.

6. How should I store plaster jewelry?