Dive into the world of jewelry making and crafts with Devil n Dove. We believe that creativity has the power to transform ordinary materials into extraordinary pieces of art. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, our goal is to inspire and guide you on your creative adventure.
At Devil n Dove, we are passionate about the art of wax casting and rubber mold making. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of creating a rubber mold for wax. From selecting the perfect model to pouring the silicone rubber, we’ll share our knowledge and techniques to help you create stunning wax castings.
Learning and growing with each project is at the heart of our creative journey. From the first sketch to the final piece, we invite you to be part of our adventure. Subscribe and hit notifications to stay updated with our latest projects and find endless inspiration for your own creations.
Welcome to Devil n Dove – where every creation tells a story. Support us at www.devilndove.com or visit our store at www.devilndove.online to explore our collection of handcrafted jewelry and unique crafts.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn the process of creating a rubber mold for wax through our step-by-step guide.
- Discover the techniques and materials used in rubber mold making for wax casting.
- Explore how to select and prepare a model for replicating wax castings.
- Understand the importance of constructing a mold box and applying sealer and release agents.
- Master the art of measuring, mixing, and pouring the silicone rubber for the mold.
Selecting and Preparing the Model
Before we can create a rubber mold for wax, we need to carefully select and prepare a model to replicate. As candle makers, we have various options when it comes to choosing materials for our models. Some commonly used materials include clay, wood, and even wax itself. Alternatively, we can take advantage of modern technology by utilizing 3D printers or CNC routers to bring our intricate designs to life.
In this tutorial, we will use a glass model as an example. To create a solid candle shape, we will fill the glass model with a combination of wood and clay. It’s crucial to ensure that the clay is smoothed out and that the model is securely adhered to the bottom board of the mold box, as these factors will greatly influence the quality and accuracy of the final wax casting.
Material Options for Model Selection:
- Clay
- Wood
- Wax
- 3D printed models
- Models created using CNC routers
Each material offers its own unique advantages and challenges, so take your time to consider which material best suits your design and vision. Remember, the model serves as the foundation for your wax casting, so pay attention to detail and craftsmanship during the modeling process.
Example Model: Glass Candle
“For this tutorial, let’s consider a glass candle as our model. By filling the glass with a combination of wood and clay, we can create a solid candle shape that represents the intricacies of our design. It’s important to pay attention to the details and ensure that the clay is meticulously smoothed out. This model will serve as the template for our rubber mold.” – Devil & Dove
| Material | Advantages | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Clay | Easy to shape and manipulate Dries to a hard and solid form |
May require additional curing time Can crack or warp if not handled carefully |
| Wood | Durable and long-lasting Allows for intricate carving and detailing |
Prone to splitting or warping due to moisture May require protective coatings or sealants |
| Wax | Can create intricate and detailed designs Easy to mold and shape |
Can melt or deform under heat Requires precautions to prevent accidental melting during the molding process |
| 3D printed models | Precision and accuracy in design Allows for complex shapes and intricate details |
High initial cost of 3D printers May require support structures for certain designs |
| Models created using CNC routers | Precision and accuracy in design Can work with various materials |
High initial cost of CNC routers Requires knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) software |
By carefully selecting and preparing our model, we lay the foundation for a successful rubber mold and ultimately achieve accurate and detailed wax castings. Let’s move on to the next step in our tutorial: constructing the mold box.
Constructing the Mold Box
To create a rubber mold for wax, we need to construct a mold box that can hold the model and the liquid mold rubber securely. The mold box can be made from a variety of materials such as plywood, Plexiglas, plastic pails, PVC pipe, Sonotubes, or melamine-laminated particle board. For this tutorial, we will be using plywood.
When constructing the mold box, it’s important to leave enough space between the model and the mold box walls to accommodate the mold walls and the mold bottom. This allows for easy pouring of the liquid rubber and ensures that the mold is properly formed.
Additionally, a hole should be created in the bottom board of the mold box to accommodate any protrusions on the model. This ensures that the model sits securely within the mold box and prevents any deformation during the molding process.
To prevent any leaks, it’s crucial to seal the mold box. In this tutorial, we will be using plasticine clay to seal the edges of the mold box. Plasticine clay is a pliable modeling material that can be easily molded and shaped. It provides a reliable seal and prevents any liquid rubber from escaping.
By constructing a sturdy and well-sealed mold box, we can create a reliable one-piece poured block mold that will produce high-quality wax castings.
Mold Box Materials
When choosing the material for your mold box, consider the following options:
- Plywood: A versatile and readily available material that is easy to work with and provides excellent stability.
- Plexiglas: A transparent material that allows for easy monitoring of the molding process.
- Plastic pails: Durable and lightweight, making them suitable for smaller molds.
- PVC pipe: Provides a rigid structure and can be easily cut to the desired length.
- Sonotubes: Made from sturdy cardboard, they are ideal for cylindrical molds.
- Melamine-laminated particle board: Offers a smooth surface and is resistant to moisture.
Choose the material that best suits your needs and the size and shape of your model. Remember to ensure that the mold box is sturdy and well-sealed to prevent any leaks during the molding process.
Applying Sealer and Release Agents
When it comes to creating a rubber mold for wax, proper application of sealer and release agents is crucial. These substances play a vital role in ensuring the success of the molding process. By sealing the mold box and coating the model with release agents, you can prevent leaks and ensure easy removal of the finished wax casting.
Sealing the mold box is the first step in preventing any leakage of the liquid mold rubber. Depending on the material of your mold box, there are different sealing options available. For porous mold box materials like plywood, we recommend using Pol-Ease 2350. This sealer is a white petrolatum dissolved in mineral spirits and offers excellent sealing properties. It not only prevents leaks but also acts as a release agent for the mold box.
For non-porous mold boxes, such as those made of plastic or metal, Pol-Ease 2500 release agent is recommended. This release agent is specifically designed for use with silicone rubber and ensures easy demolding of the finished wax casting.
It’s also essential to coat the model with a release agent to facilitate its removal from the mold. Applying a release agent to the model’s surface creates a barrier between the model and the mold rubber, allowing for easy separation. Ensure that the release agent is evenly applied to all surfaces of the model.
In addition to using sealer and release agents, it’s a good practice to seal any gaps or areas where rubber may leak. Plasticine clay can be used to fill these gaps and ensure a watertight seal. Apply the clay in a thin, even layer to cover any potential leakage points.
Remember to take care when applying sealer, release agents, and clay to avoid disturbing the model or mold box. Precision is key to achieving a well-sealed mold and an easy demolding process.
Support us at www.devilndove.com or our store at www.devilndove.online.
Measuring, Mixing, and Pouring the Silicone Rubber
Now that the mold box and model are ready, it’s time to move on to the next step: measuring, mixing, and pouring the silicone rubber. In this tutorial, we will be using PlatSil 73-15 silicone rubber. PlatSil 73-15 is a platinum-cured silicone with excellent properties for mold making.
PlatSil 73-15 has a specific mix ratio of 1A:1B, meaning equal parts of Part A and Part B need to be mixed together. It’s important to measure accurately using a scale or measuring cups to ensure the correct ratio is achieved.
Before mixing the silicone, it’s crucial to ensure that the model and any materials in contact with the silicone are free from any inhibitors that could cause cure inhibition. Any residue from release agents or contaminants can affect the curing process, so make sure to clean and prepare the surfaces properly.
Tip: Perform a small test cure before pouring the entire mold. This will help you confirm that the silicone cures properly and gives you a chance to check for any potential issues.
Thoroughly mix Part A and Part B of the silicone rubber according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Stir the two components together until you achieve a consistent color and texture throughout. Be careful not to introduce any air bubbles during the mixing process.
Once the silicone rubber is properly mixed, it’s time to pour it into the mold box. Start pouring from one corner to ensure even distribution and to minimize the risk of trapping air bubbles. Slowly pour the silicone until the mold box is completely filled, ensuring that the model is fully immersed. Take your time to avoid splashing or spilling.
After pouring, gently tap the mold box on a flat surface to help remove any remaining air bubbles trapped in the silicone. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and bubble-free mold.
The demold time for PlatSil 73-15 silicone rubber is approximately 4-5 hours at room temperature. However, curing times may vary depending on factors such as temperature and humidity. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow enough time for the silicone to fully cure before proceeding to the next steps.
Once the silicone rubber has cured, it’s time to move on to the demolding and cutting process to reveal the final mold.
Support us at www.devilndove.com or our store at www.devilndove.online.
Demolding and Cutting the Mold
With the silicone rubber fully cured, it’s time to demold and cut the mold. This process ensures that the mold is released from the model and ready for wax injection.
Demolding is a crucial step in the rubber mold making process. It requires precision and careful handling to avoid any damage to the mold or the model.
To start the demolding process, carefully remove the mold box bottom board and walls. A putty knife can be a useful tool to gently separate the mold from the mold box.
Using a putty knife allows us to navigate the mold edges and release it from the mold box without causing any unintended tears or deformations.
Once the mold is successfully demolded, it’s time to cut it to create a hinge mold. A hinge mold allows for easy opening and closing, facilitating the wax injection process.
To create a hinge mold, carefully cut the mold in a way that leaves the two halves connected at the back. This connection ensures that the mold stays in its original position during wax injection.
Cutting the mold to create a hinge mold is a delicate task. It requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that the two halves align perfectly and maintain their position throughout the casting process.
In addition to the hinge, the mold should also have key cuts. These key cuts serve as alignment markers and help secure the mold in its original position. It’s essential to cut the keys deeply and make them geometric in shape for better contact.
The key cuts play a vital role in maintaining the accuracy and alignment of the mold during wax injection. By cutting the keys deeply and shaping them geometrically, we ensure a secure and reliable connection between the mold halves.
Air vents are another crucial element to incorporate into the mold. These vents allow for the escape of air during wax injection, preventing air bubbles from forming and ensuring a smooth casting.
Adding air vents to the mold is essential for achieving high-quality wax castings. It promotes proper wax flow and helps eliminate air entrapment, resulting in flawless and detailed final products.
By carefully demolding the mold, creating a hinge mold, adding key cuts, and incorporating air vents, we ensure that the mold is perfectly prepared for the wax injection process.
| Demolding and Cutting the Mold | |
|---|---|
| Demolding Process | Carefully remove the mold box bottom board and walls using a putty knife. |
| Hinge Mold Creation | Cut the mold in a way that leaves the two halves connected at the back to create a hinge mold. |
| Key Cuts | Cut deep and geometrically shaped keys into the mold for better alignment and stability. |
| Air Vents | Add air vents to allow for the escape of air during wax injection, preventing air bubbles. |
Pouring Wax into the Mold and Removing the Candle
With the mold prepared, it’s time to bring your candle to life. Follow these steps to pour wax into the mold and create a beautifully crafted candle.
Melting the Wax
Before we begin, let’s melt the wax. Use a double boiler or a wax melting pot to heat the wax gently. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature.
- Pro Tip: To achieve the best results, use high-quality wax designed specifically for candle making.
Preparing the Wick
Next, feed the wick through the hole in the bottom of the mold. Tie a temporary knot at the end to secure it in place.
Adding Fragrance and Color
If desired, it’s time to enhance your candle with fragrance and color. Add a few drops of your favorite candle fragrance oil and stir it into the melted wax. You can also incorporate color by using candle dye chips or liquid colorants. Experiment with different combinations for unique and personalized candles.
Pouring the Wax
When the wax has reached the ideal temperature, carefully pour it into the mold. Start by pouring a thin layer and allow it to settle before proceeding with the rest of the wax. This helps to minimize air bubbles and ensure an even distribution of color and fragrance.
Cooling and Setting
Once the mold is filled, set it aside and allow the wax to cool completely. The cooling process may take several hours, depending on the size and type of candle. Patience is key at this stage to achieve a smooth and flawless finish.
Removing the Candle
Once the wax has fully cooled and hardened, it’s time to remove the candle from the mold. Carefully separate the mold halves and gently push the candle out. Use a sharp knife or trimming tool to remove any excess wax or uneven edges.
Image: Removing the finished candle from the mold.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully poured wax into the mold and created a beautiful candle. Remember to trim the wick to the desired length before lighting your masterpiece.
Support us at www.devilndove.com or our store at www.devilndove.online for more inspiring candle making supplies and techniques.
Conclusion
Creating rubber molds for wax casting opens up a world of possibilities in DIY candle making. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this tutorial, you can easily master the art of rubber mold making and produce consistent and detailed wax castings.
Key takeaways from this tutorial include:
- Selection: Choose a model that suits your vision and materials like clay, wood, or wax. Alternatively, utilize modern technology with 3D printers or CNC routers.
- Construction: Build a mold box using suitable materials such as plywood, Plexiglas, or PVC pipe. Ensure proper sealing with clay to prevent leaks.
- Preparation: Apply sealer and release agents both in the mold box and on the model to facilitate mold removal.
- Pouring: Measure, mix and pour silicone rubber into the mold box, ensuring it adequately covers the model.
- Demolding and Cutting: Carefully remove the mold box and cut the mold to create a hinge mold with keys and air vents for better functionality.
- Wax Casting: Pour melted wax into the mold, allowing it to cool before carefully removing the finished candle.
With dedication and practice, you can become an expert in rubber mold making for wax casting, creating unique candles that delight and impress. Remember to explore our website at www.devilndove.com and visit our online store at www.devilndove.online for more candle-making resources and supplies.
FAQ
How do I select and prepare a model for creating a rubber mold for wax?
You can use materials such as clay, wood, or wax to sculpt your original model. Alternatively, you can utilize modern technology like 3D printers or CNC routers.
What materials can I use to construct a mold box for wax casting?
You can use plywood, Plexiglas, plastic pails, PVC pipe, Sonotubes, or melamine-laminated particle board to construct a mold box.
What sealer and release agents should I use before pouring the liquid mold rubber?
For porous mold box materials like plywood, you can use Pol-Ease 2350 as both a sealer and release agent. For non-porous mold boxes, Pol-Ease 2500 release agent is recommended when working with silicone rubber.
How do I measure, mix, and pour the silicone rubber for the mold?
Thoroughly mix the PlatSil 73-15 silicone rubber with a 1A:1B mix ratio. Ensure that the model and other materials in contact with the silicone do not contain any inhibitors that could cause cure inhibition. Pour the silicone rubber carefully into the mold box, starting from one corner.
How do I demold and cut the rubber mold?
Demold the rubber mold by carefully removing the mold box bottom board and walls. Use a putty knife to assist in this process. To create a hinge mold, cut the mold in a way that leaves the two halves connected at the back. Cut keys into the mold for better contact and add air vents for the escape of air during wax injection.
How do I pour wax into the mold and remove the candle?
Feed a wick through a hole in the bottom of the mold, temporarily tying it to secure it in place. Melt the wax, add any desired dyes or fragrances, and carefully pour it into the mold. Allow the wax to cool completely before removing the candle from the mold by separating the mold halves and trimming the wick as necessary.
What should I keep in mind when creating a rubber mold for wax?
Take your time, mix the materials thoroughly, and pay attention to key details like sealing the mold box and adding air vents. Practice and experience will help you become a master of rubber mold making for wax casting.
Source Links
RELATED POSTS
View all
