DIY Molds for Plaster Forms

We’ve had several tutorials recently about fusing with plaster forms.  So far we’ve been using commercially available molds available online or from the craft store.  It’s not only possible to make your own molds, but quite easy.  Here are 3 mold making compounds I’ve used, with their pros and cons.

DIY Mold Making Materials

Mold n Pour for making plaster inclusions

Mold-N-Pour (2 Part Silicone Putty Mold)
This mold material is two parts, which you knead together and then press on your original.

PRO

-it sets up rapidly, can be used immediately
-it leaves no residue on the master
-excellent for small molds

CON
-quite expensive
-not great for large molds

Sculpey Mold Maker (oven bake mold material)
Similar to Sculpey polymer clay, but more flexible.

 PRO

-less expensive
-easy to use
-relatively quick
-excellent for small molds

CON
-master has to be coated with starch
-molds have to be baked

Liquid Latex Mold Builder
This mold material is brushed on in layers and reinforced with gauze.

 PRO

-not expensive
-works for large molds
CON
-contains latex
-stinks like you wouldn’t believe
-takes a long time to build a mold

Other Considerations when making your own molds:

  • It’s best not to use delicate or irreplaceable objects as mold masters.
  • Follow all safety and usage directions

Tips and Trouble Shooting:

  • If the gap is too small to slide pieces together, you’ll need to widen it with either a diamond file or a diamond bit on a dremel tool.  Use plenty of water and wear a mask.
  • Make sure the feet are level, if your vase isn’t balancing, you may need to grind the feet larger and flatter
  • If your fiber paper doesn’t come out cleanly, add water and dig it out with a skewer or hooked wire.
  • Yes, the vase can hold water

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Bottle Glass Fish Sun Charm

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Lentil Bead Molds – Instructions

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