Latex rubber pips all other mold making materials to the post and emerges as the most popular choice of mold makers. Following are some handy tips that will ensure better results when making latex molds.
There are many choices of mold making rubber, like silicone rubber, polyurethane rubber, thermoset mold rubber and more. However, latex rubber seems to trump all other mold rubbers, and in fact, other mold making materials as well.
The reason for its popularity does not rest only in the price. Though it cannot be denied that the economical feature surely finds favor with artists, especially when making molds and casts on a regular basis.
To add to this, latex molds turn out to be durable, long lasting, tough and tear resistant to the extent that they can even be used to cast abrasive materials like concrete. They will turn out to be soft and flexible to the extent that they can even be tuned inside out. Minimal shrinkage is reported when working with quality latex material.
Moreover, the molds can survive multiple castings and still render excellent detail and finish just like a new mold. When properly stored, latex molds remain usable for years to deliver hundreds of casts.
Following are some tips that will come in handy when making a latex mold:
- The model should always be cleaned and prepared properly before starting the mold making process. Holes should be plugged with modeling clay. When making a glove mold, it is better if the model does not have any deep undercuts or through holes, like spaces between arms or legs.
- Generally, a release agent is not needed when making a latex mold. However, in case the model is porous, coat it with an appropriate release agent like paste wax or silicone spray. The release agent has to be carefully brushed into the pores, cracks and undercuts. Buff off excess release agent and allow the model to dry before applying the mold making latex.
- The degree of flexibility of the latex mold can be controlled by adding an appropriate filler.
- Making a latex mold calls for building up several layers (around 10 to 12) of the rubber. Here it is crucial to allow each layer to dry properly before applying the next one.
- Artists usually build a shell mold like a rigid jacket over the latex mold to give it some reinforcing strength. Some opt for applying a reinforcing cloth between the latex layers itself.
- An easy way to demold is to dust the edges of the latex mold with powder before peeling it off.
EnvironMolds Liquid Latex Mold Making Rubber is a pure liquid latex product that is considered an exceptional choice not just for making flexible and durable latex molds; the same material can even be used to create special effects like wrinkles, scars, gashes, monstrous skin textures or even to smooth out certain features. It even works well as an adhesive for bald caps, prosthesis and more.