trying to make a mold

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Michael Stevens
Posts: 83
Joined: Thu Dec 26, 2019 2:52 pm

trying to make a mold

Post by Michael Stevens »

I have this piece of driftwood id like to try and cast in glass. it has some undercuts, I was going to make a silicon mold, then cast in wax, then make plaster/ silica mold.

is there any suggestions or tips to accomplish this. I wasn't sure if I need to make 2 part mold or if softer silicon could just pull off.
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Dick
Posts: 89
Joined: Sun May 01, 2005 9:34 pm
Location: San Diego
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Re: trying to make a mold

Post by Dick »

There are definitely ways to do it. I learned with a great teacher named Judy Hill at Pilchuck. It's a little complex especially trying to show in pictures. It involves multi coats of silicone and then making a line with a release and another coat after that. Then being able to cut through. Kind of like having a flap. You also have to consider where your pour will be. You could also consider multi part molds. Might be time for a mold class.
Michael Stevens
Posts: 83
Joined: Thu Dec 26, 2019 2:52 pm

Re: trying to make a mold

Post by Michael Stevens »

yeah I wish I could take classes. no one here teaches it, if there are online classes that are effective maybe I could. living in China realy sucks sometimes. but I'm really learning a lot through trial and error
Dick
Posts: 89
Joined: Sun May 01, 2005 9:34 pm
Location: San Diego
Contact:

Re: trying to make a mold

Post by Dick »

didn't know you were in China. I know from working there a couple of years ago even getting basic tools could be challenging. I know there are some good videos at
Smooth-On, Inc. | Mold Making & Casting Materials | Rubbers ...www.smooth-on.com. Sometimes they are for more complex but maybe something will help. you can shoot me an email and if I think of anything else I will let you know.

dick
dick@dickditore.com
Michael Stevens
Posts: 83
Joined: Thu Dec 26, 2019 2:52 pm

Re: trying to make a mold

Post by Michael Stevens »

thanks. I'Ve had to make everything myself. when I was home in USA, so easy to get everything high quality. I'm doing good work but takes forever to learn everything.
Michael Stevens
Posts: 83
Joined: Thu Dec 26, 2019 2:52 pm

Re: trying to make a mold

Post by Michael Stevens »

as a follow up, I made the silicon mold, I filled in some of the deep undercuts. then I made wax casting. added the deep cuts and fine details. will pour plaster silica mix tonight. thanks for all the tips.
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