Silicone rubber makes the most perfect mold reproductions that become the base for casts. Find out more about the different techniques of making silicone molds as well as how to use them in the casting process.
Silicone rubber is a versatile material that is commonly used in art studios to make molds and casts. It offers an interesting array of useful properties that lend themselves well to these arts. As a mold making material, it reproduces the precise shape of the model and can be used to make a wide variety of reproductions.
The common methods of making silicone molds is either pouring or lamination. In the former, the model is kept inside a mold box and the rubber is directly poured on to it. This process requires just a couple of steps and the mold is ready in the minimum time possible. It is preferred for making molds of furniture parts, ornaments and fine handicrafts.
The lamination method is also known as skin molding. It involves creating a skin of even thickness by laminating the rubber onto the model. The mold is reinforced with a shell mold. The process is not only quick, it also requires less quantity of material and results in a lightweight mold. This is the method of choice for reproducing artworks and other three-dimensional figures. It is also preferred for creating molds of large figures.
Both the methods will replicate even the minute surface details of the model in their entirety and become a perfect negative impression of the model.
The common methods of making silicone molds is either pouring or lamination. In the former, the model is kept inside a mold box and the rubber is directly poured on to it. This process requires just a couple of steps and the mold is ready in the minimum time possible. It is preferred for making molds of furniture parts, ornaments and fine handicrafts.
The lamination method is also known as skin molding. It involves creating a skin of even thickness by laminating the rubber onto the model. The mold is reinforced with a shell mold. The process is not only quick, it also requires less quantity of material and results in a lightweight mold. This is the method of choice for reproducing artworks and other three-dimensional figures. It is also preferred for creating molds of large figures.
Both the methods will replicate even the minute surface details of the model in their entirety and become a perfect negative impression of the model.
Making the Casting
Once the silicone mold is ready and cured properly, anything from wax or plaster to resin can be cast in the mold to create a perfect reproduction of the model. Both the mold making and casting processes work beautifully as silicone rubber does not stick to anything (except itself). Demolding is a breeze and the flexible mold can be finished/corrected as needed before making casts.
The silicone molds are always durable and long-lasting. They can be used and reused any number of times provided they are cleaned and stored properly between uses. The casts will turn out perfect every single time. It is advisable to dust the mold with talcum powder before storing away from sunlight to ensure that the mold does not flop or become sticky.
What’s more, it is possible to even cast silicone rubber in these molds as long as a good release agent is being used. When it comes to finishing a silicone cast, it calls for special silicone paints as the regular ones will tend to chip and crack on the rubber surface.
Where to buy?
EnvironMolds (https://www.artmolds.com/) offers a varied collection of silicone rubber options for general mold making apart from specific purposes like food molds, body molds, 5 minute molds and even doll reborning. The materials are of excellent quality and yet priced vey reasonably. In addition to this, the special silicone paint is also available for finishing silicone casts.
0 Response to "How to Make Molds Using Silicone Rubber?"
Post a Comment