Matt asks:
I’m interested in making a silicone mold, and I’m wondering what sorts of things the silicone will stick to and what sorts of precautions to take to prevent it from sticking? I’m making a mold of a plastic figurine.
Well, you have to assume it will stick to anything. If you’re using Polytek PlatSil or TinSil, you’ll want to use a non-silicone based mold release (like PolEase 2500), and spray shellac will work in a pinch. SIlicone sticks to itself, too, so be sure to coat the different pieces of your mold in the release agent before pouring multiple parts. When in doubt, give the folks at Polytek a call; they’re really helpful on the phone and will work with your specific project to make sure you’re using the right materials and processes.
If you’re unfamiliar with moldmaking in general, check out our primer in MAKE, Vol. 08 by Mythbuster Adam Savage. You can preview the article in the Digital Edition.
If you have a question for Ask MAKE, send me an email at becky@makezine.com or tweet at us!
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