Step #1: Create a robot you want to share with others.
I took our Makey robot icon and 3D-printed a small copy for myself. I am going to use this to make copies for my friends. Not everyone has a 3D printer, so you can sculpt your own, or build one from parts around the house. Use thin wood, strips of styrene, or even thick hard clay.
But remember, try to keep a flat back on one side, which will make it easier to mold.
- Working quickly, press the silicone into all the nooks and crannies of your piece. Make sure the silicone wall around the piece is thick enough (I usually try to have .25" minimum around the object I'm molding). Leave more silicone on the top.
- The added silicone on top is so that you can press something flat onto the top, leveling it off. That way, when you flip this mold over to pour resin into it, the mold lies flat on your table, and the resin will fill the entire mold evenly.
- I made a bunch of copies in different colors, but I wanted one to look like it was metal.
- I dry-brushed silver metallic paint over the keychain, and specifically on the edges, making it look like worn metal. You could paint your friend's name on the back or draw faces on it in paint.
This doesn't have to be just a keychain, either. This idea would be great for necklaces, bracelets, or tiny party favors.
Have fun and show us what you make!
