| How to make your own rubber mold: |
Step #1
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Although Mold Builder is harmless to most surfaces, always test an inconspicuous area first prior to applying over the entire surface. Next, some models have holes or tunnels that extend completely through the piece. Here, the hole under the puppys stomach, has been completely filled with childrens modeling clay. Clay has also been formed around the edge of the base, filling the gap between model and base. |
Step #2
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To apply, simply brush the liquid over the surface of the model, then around the base to create a flange. Allow the Mold Builder to air dry or use a hair drier on a warm setting to speed up the drying. Important: the first two coats must be applied as thin as possible. Remove all thick pockets which if left will seal over and not dry out. Once the surface has dried (translucent appearance) you can apply another coat. Allow the combined layers to gradually achieve proper thickness. Example: A 6 life-like figurine requires approximately ten coats. For added firmness and support, apply a layer of cheese cloth or bandage gauze between your last layers. |
Step #3

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When your mold is dry, dust it lightly with talc powder, then peel it off of the model. Dust the inside of the mold with talc powder to keep the fresh latex from sticking to itself. Support the mold in a cardboard box (as shown) and pour in the liquid casting material of your choice. |
Step #4
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You can make the flat (blanket mold as pictured) just as easily as the glove type. The model (usually a plaque-like piece or wall sculpture) is attached to a base, using small dabs of Plasticine clay. Again, use Plasticine clay to fill the gap around the edge, giving a good, clean edge to the resulting mold. |
Step #5
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Apply enough Mold Builder to give a thick blanket of latex (as shown in this cross section). The latex is allowed to dry and is trimmed flush with the base.
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Step #6
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Retaining sides are added to contain plaster. These sides can be of any rigid material that will hold the plaster as it sets. With a brush apply a light solution of liquid soap and water over the latex blanket mold and allow to dry. This soap solution when dry will act as a mold release allowing the pieces to be separated later. Next pour plaster over the rubber blanket to form a supportive base for the flexible latex Mold Builder. Mother support mold option is to pour sand or kitty litter into a shallow box. Leaving the original piece in your mold, press the mold into the sand or kitty litter to create an impression. Once the impression is made, carefully remove your mold. Pull original from mold, then place mold back into sand or kitty litter. |
Step #7
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When the plaster support mold has set up, the sides are removed. The plaster is lifted off, and then the latex mold is peeled from the model. Replace the latex mold into the support mold, and pour in the casting material of your choice. |
Dos & Donts:
- Use only dry warm air for drying and curing Mold Builder.
- Do not use petroleum based mold release agents. Petroleum release agents will react with the latex mold and destroy it.
- Clean up Mold Builder with cold soapy water only. Do not use warm water which will cause the Mold Builder to set up immediately!
- A few minutes prior to using Mold Builder, remove the lid and allow the accumulated ammonia to dissipate.
- To remove from clothing, clean with dry cleaning solution.
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