Some mold makers skip sealing the mold box thinking that even if the mold making material tends to leak from the edges, they can always clean the mess later. But can you really afford to do so? Find out why….
One of the first steps for making a mold is making a mold box. This is a structure that is used to contain the model. For making a small rubber or resin casting, a cup, bowl or bottle can easily serve as the mold box. However, it is essential that the ‘box’ should be able to contain the entire model. That’s not all – it should also allow sufficient space around and over the edges of the model so that the mold making material can form a thick rim around the model.
Mold makers often use different materials to make the mold box – think cardboard, plastic, acrylic sheets, wood, metal or even lego blocks to form the containment field. Ready-to-use mold boxes are also available in art stores and these can be adjusted to suit the dimensions of the model.
One of the first steps for making a mold is making a mold box. This is a structure that is used to contain the model. For making a small rubber or resin casting, a cup, bowl or bottle can easily serve as the mold box. However, it is essential that the ‘box’ should be able to contain the entire model. That’s not all – it should also allow sufficient space around and over the edges of the model so that the mold making material can form a thick rim around the model.
Mold makers often use different materials to make the mold box – think cardboard, plastic, acrylic sheets, wood, metal or even lego blocks to form the containment field. Ready-to-use mold boxes are also available in art stores and these can be adjusted to suit the dimensions of the model.
Irrespective of the type of mold box, it is essential to seal and caulk the mold box properly. Else, consider this - leaving a mold box with a leak to cure overnight is likely to result in a half-complete mold in the morning!
So, isn’t it better to create a waterproof seal around the edges of the mold box? Applying glue or clay around the exterior perimeter and up the corners of the box will seal the edges and keep the runniest of mold making materials from leaking out of the mold box. Plasticina clay is considered best for this purpose.
Another important step is to apply a release agent inside the mold box and glue the base of the model to the bottom of the box. This will ensure that the model does not shift while the mold making material is poured into the box. Demolding will be easy as well.
All materials like clays, polyurethanes and rubbers along with supplies can be easily sourced from EnvironMolds at https://www.artmolds.com
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