Intro To Mold Making: Fantasy Basel Recap

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our panel at Fantasy Basel! Here is a brief overview of what was covered and helpful links to aid you in your mold making endeavors!

Things to consider when deciding on a mold type:

  • Shape of the item?
  • Size of the item?
  • What material will be cast in the mold?
  • What is your budget for materials?
  • What is your time frame?
  • How many castings/ how long will you need the mold to last?

 

Common Mold Types

Pour-On mold:

The item is placed in a container. Silicone is poured over the item forming a block that captures the details of one side of the item.

Uses:

  • Small items
  • One sided item
  • Groups of multiple small items

Examples:Zandalari Coins, Dental Impressions, Gems, Cabochons

 

Two part pour on mold:

The item is placed in a container. Half of the item is sectioned off using clay. Silicone is poured over the exposed half, forming a block. The mold is then flipped over and the clay is removed. Silicone is poured in the second half capturing the detail of the other side.

Uses:

  • Two sided items
  • Symmetrical /low profile items

Examples: Forsaken Dagger-Blade and Hilt, Skulls, Vicar Amelia Locket

Brush on mold:

Silicone is brushed onto the surface of the item. The silicone is built up in multiple layers.  A plaster bandage mold jacket is added for support.

Uses:

  • Odd shaped items
  • Vertical items
  • Larger items
  • Good for slush/roto casting items like masks
  • Larger items like lifecasts

Examples: Full Head Lifecast, Eileen the Crow Mask, Zandalari Collar, Necromancer Armor

Stone Molds:

Unlike silicone, stone molds are not flexible. Layers of plaster and burlap are built up over the item. These molds can be made in single or multiple parts.

Uses:

  • Casting flexible items
  • Baking foam latex appliances
  • Slip casting latex/rubber

Examples: Troll feet, Troll prosthetic, Forsaken spine, Amelia’s hands

 

HAPPY MAKING!

Where we get our Mold Making materials:

Special Thanks to KauPo, the Smooth-On Distributor in Switzerland, for providing materials for our mold demo!

 

Resources:

  • When to use Pour on VS Brush on:

https://www.smooth-on.com/support/faq/125/

  • Smooth on Mold making PDF:

https://www.smooth-on.com/tutorials/download-booklet/

  • Smooth-On Tutorial Videos:

https://www.smooth-on.com/howto/basics-mold-making/

  • Another overview page:

https://www.artmolds.com/molding-materials.html