less expensive molds

[k2]

i was just wondering what you guys use to make molds of heads, i have been using alumilite rtv silicone and it works great but it is about 30 dollars for a 1 pound jar and i only get about 3 molds out of that, so my question--- is there a cheaper route to go, or is that is that about normal?
thanks
k.c.

[ctc]

Hmmmm....

I use GI-1000 RTV silicone. Pretty similar to what you use in usage and cost.

>about 30 dollars for a 1 pound jar and i only get about 3 molds out of that,

Buh? How big are you making your molds?!?!? 1lb of silicone lasts me for a LONG time. I usually have a clearance of a little less than half the distance across whatever I'm molding. (So I'll have a bout half an inch of mold space around a 1 inch part.) Sometimes less for a case mold or a cheapie mold for something I only need one of.

I'll also grind up old molds and use 'em for filler. When I make molds I make a bunch at once, and slowly cover them. Thin layers over the original, so that air can escape. Once the item is fully covered I'll use some chopped up old molds for filler, before pouring in new silicone. (The important thing is to keep the face of the mold clear.)

Don C.

[Blackkryptonite]

I use that Alumilite stuff too but i try to buy it when i have a Hobby Lobby 40% off coupon which really knocks the prices down. I've been wanting to try that PolyTek stuff that Buk uses but just haven't gotten around to order it. I usually get quit a bit more than just 3 heads from 1 pound though. I casted up two torsos, one pelvis and a pair of boot feet this past weekend. I always try to optimize my mold box without sacrificing the thickness of it. That way you can really get the most for your money

[k2]

thanks guys
i think i will try the polytech
later
k.c.

[K]

I'll also grind up old molds and use 'em for filler. When I make molds I make a bunch at once, and slowly cover them. Thin layers over the original, so that air can escape. Once the item is fully covered I'll use some chopped up old molds for filler, before pouring in new silicone. (The important thing is to keep the face of the mold clear.)

Ah...interesting, ctc. I learned somethin' today!

[spiderrogue]

i use the alumite also...and only get like 3 molds per jar(?).....but i have also tried a few other types and so far, ive gotten the best results with this stuff...and like someone else had said..get a 40% off coupon from hobby lobby online and use it...saves ya a ton..that's what i do...comes in handy...

[ctc]

>i use the alumite also...and only get like 3 molds per jar(?).....

Really? You guys must be making BIG molds.

One way to reduce cost on stuff you're only making a few of is to make a case mold. Pour enough rubber to cover what you're copying; but not enough to make a full mold. (So you're probnably half-filling the mold. Be sure to cover the whole item being copied, and ensure the rubber is thick enough to survive being peeled off the finished product.) When cured, fill the rest of the mold with plaster of paris.

So... when you guys are making your molds, what do you use for the casing? (That is; the little box you pour the silicone into.) I use legos.

Don C.

[spiderrogue]

i use dixie cups...usually the clear ones..makes it easier to see what im doing....i dont really make big molds...but maybe i do waste some? i will try your methods and see what happens....thanks!!

i have pics of how i do it, if you are interested in seeing? lmk

[ThatBatmanGuy]

You can't get any cheaper than smooth-on OOMOO.

Yeah what Don said about a "case" mold. I've always called it a mother mold. But with mego heads it's just not worth the time or work to do it.

When pouring the rubber ALWAYS pour from about 2-3 feet above the mold box. This causes the rubber to thin and expel many air bubbles. Also DO NOT just dump the rubber on top of the part. ALWAYS pour from a far side of the sculpt and let the rubber fill the box and travel up the sculpt. This step kills more air bubbles.

I used alumite products years ago. It's always been a product that you have to work harder with than you should have too.

Bob

[spiderrogue]

truth be told..
this is where i learned how to do my molds..before i found this link, mine were just ok..lots of issues with them..but now, i can get pretty good results...so, whoever did this tutorial...and if you are on this board, i would like to say thanks..
Captain Dunsel's Mego Madhouse

[spiderrogue]

here are a few pics of how i do things...if i am not allowed to put pics here, someone..please tell me..
thanks

[Meule]

truth be told..
this is where i learned how to do my molds..before i found this link, mine were just ok..lots of issues with them..but now, i can get pretty good results...so, whoever did this tutorial...and if you are on this board, i would like to say thanks..
Captain Dunsel's Mego Madhouse

Yep, James is a member here. He sculpted the Trek heads and Dave Mc made the outfits

here are a few pics of how i do things...if i am not allowed to put pics here, someone..please tell me..
thanks

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i100/spiderrogue/P3193584.jpg

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i100/spiderrogue/P3193583.jpg

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i1...e/P3193578.jpg

I see you still have that cool Robin

[spiderrogue]

so...maybe it's like karma that i came onboard here....since i have had really great results with this molding technique....

robin? nahhh.....just an old pic....but thanks for the kudos...

[Meule]

robin? nahhh.....just an old pic....but thanks for the kudos...

Dude, you really need to keep some of these for yourself

[spiderrogue]

to be honest..i did start to make them for myself...but since i have started to sell them...the extra money does come in handy..with a new house and all....

if you like them so much, i'll start selling them to ya..how about that? no? well.....then....lol...