Silicone molds are made by pouring silicone into a mold or container. There are two types of silicone suitable for making molds: platinum-cured and tin-cured. There are four types of silicone molds: block, multi-block, glove, and cast glove. Careful preparation and following instructions are necessary for successful silicone mold-making.
Silicone molds are created by pouring silicone into a prepared form, mold box, or mold. The silicone forms the shape of the container or object placed in the container. Silicone molds are very popular with hobbyists and artists who create candles, jewelry and figurines.
To make silicone molds, you will need to purchase silicone. Suitable silicone can be found in craft stores, hardware stores and Internet specialty stores. If silicone is delivered to you, please check the shipping price first as it is a heavy material.
There are two types of silicone suitable for making molds: platinum-cured and tin-cured. Platinum-cured silicone, also known as addition-curing silicone, contains chemicals designed to slow down the curing process and allow enough time to manipulate the silicone mold. Tin-catalyzed or condensation-cured silicone is not very common as the material cannot be heated to keep it flexible, making it more difficult to work with.
There are four types of silicone molds: block, multi-block, glove and cast glove. All of these types of molds require a room-temperature workspace, protective gloves, plastic sheeting, mixing containers, stir sticks, and a mold box. Different types of molds are used to create different products and the appropriate mold should be selected based on the desired result.
A block mold is the simplest type of silicone mold and a great place to start. The part you want to make a mold of is placed inside the mold box and positioned so that the silicone touches all sides. The prepared silicone is poured into the prepared block mold box and a silicone mold is made.
A multi-piece block mold follows the same basic process as a block mold, but the mold is cut away to remove the original part. This can also be done by filling the container halfway and applying a chemical release agent before finishing. Applying release agent will allow the mold to separate after curing.
The glove mold is for experienced silicone mold users and is used for building renovation. A special chemical called a thixotropic agent is applied to the original part to hold the silicone in place. The silicone is then brushed onto the mold, cured and removed.
A cast glove mold creates a shell of the desired shape. Silicone is poured into the shell to create the pattern. Cast glove molds are usually made from modeling clay, plaster, or fiberglass.
When creating a silicone mold, carefully follow the instructions that come with the materials. The silicone needs to be mixed together and quickly poured into the mold box. Advanced preparation and having all the necessary materials at hand will allow you to create silicone molds that meet your needs.
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