Make a Silicone Mold for Polymer and Precious Metal Clays
Mold making is easy to do when you use a pre-packaged two part silicone mold putty. Silicone putty is non-toxic and can be used for creating simple but detailed molds. Easy, fast, flexible, and accurate, silicone putty is ideal for using with precious metal clay or polymer clay.
Steps
- Choose a subject. This project uses a curable putty to make a mold from an original object to copy, not directly to create the form which the finished product will take. Make or choose one or more small, moderately thin objects without narrow or undercut parts, and with interesting relief, to copy. For instance, a coat button.
- Take out the amount of silicone putty to be used. You'll find that the purchased silicone putty comes as two substances, "Part A" and "Part B". One part will be white, the other a different color. Dispense (or cut off) the amount you need of each substance, generally an equal amount of each (check the instructions).
- Return any unused portions of Parts A and B to their storage containers for later use, to prevent the silicone from drying out.
- Take one piece of Part A's putty and roll it into a ball. Then do the same to a piece of Part B. It is very important that you ensure that both pieces from Parts A and B are the same amount in size, otherwise the finished mold will not set.
- putty]] Mix both Parts A and B together. Mix until the piece is one color only. Don't worry – it doesn't take long for the putty to be completely mixed.
- Press the putty onto the item you want an impression from. Set the item on a smooth flat surface. Remember to press firmly to ensure that no air is trapped. Make the back of the putty somewhat smooth and level, too (you could press the bottom of a plate against it; don't make it too thin). Then lift the putty gently from the item being copied.
- Put the putty mold aside to set. The setting time required will depend on the type of molding putty used; read the instructions accompanying the product you've purchased for a clearer idea.
- Use the silicone mold. Once set, the mold is ready for use with precious metal, clay or polymer clay. Simply follow the instructions for the use of the clay and create your items.
- To use: Once the mold is set, just lay the clay on the mold and run a roller across it to transfer an impression of the mold.
Video
Template:Video:Make a Silicone Mold for Polymer and Precious Metal Clays
Tips
- The mold should last a long time if cared for; keep stored in a safe, dry spot.
- Remember to always read the manufacturer's instructions.
- Silicone putty can also be used to make more complex molds of different shaped objects. Experiment to see what you can create.
Things You'll Need
- Silicone putty kit from a hobby, craft, or art store
- Plastic dividing knife or putty knife
- Clean surface for working on
- Drying surface such as wax paper or a baking rack
- Storage container
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