Proper Mixing - The Key to Fine Molds and Casts

While wax or clay modeling materials are used as it is, most other mold making and casting materials feature two components – generally a base and a catalyst - which have to be mixed together before use. Some materials need to be mixed with water (like plaster or alginate). In either case, you have to follow the prescribed mix ratio (can be by weight or volume) to the letter, to get the proper consistency, curing and finish.

In clay modeling making an accurate mix in the specified ratio is not the only thing that is important. The two parts that are being combined also need to be mixed thoroughly to get the desired effects. In fact, many a times the two different components are of different colors and can cause an undesirable marbled effect if not mixed properly. In some cases, it can also turn out lumpy and quite unusable.

Careful and comprehensive mixing alone will ensure a uniform color and consistency throughout. Following are a few tips on the same:

•    Large volumes often end up inadequately mixed and quite ineffectual. This is why professional artists often prefer to mix small quantities of their mold making and casting materials at a time.

•    Use a firm grip and a steady hand to mix in circular motions.

•    Keep scraping the sides and bottom of the container you are mixing in so that nothing remains settled anywhere. To avoid this, many artists even pour the mixture into another container and mix again.

•    Always over mix rather than under mix!

Keep Life Casting Models Happy with MoldEZ

Life casting models often get put off by hair tangles and painful tugs during demolding. No matter how much baby oil or even petroleum jelly the artist slathers on the model’s head and body, the latter’s hair still ends up getting entrapped in the body mold. In fact, life casting artists often complain that their models refuse to repeat the experience and do not come back for further assignments. 

Clay modeling or resin casting is easier as it does not involve the live human body, but life casting requires careful preparation with an effective release agent. EnvironMolds offers an excellent product called MoldEZ Hair and Mold Release. This is water soluble and washes off easily at one go without tangling the hair at all!

It’s easy to apply MoldEZ – work generous amounts into the hair on the head, underarms or pubic area right from the root to the tips before combing them into place. You can also apply this water-based release cream on all fine body hair. The mold will come off easily from the body without pulling on the hair unnecessarily. MoldEZ is made completely from natural ingredients, is safe for the skin and can be washed out very easily with water.

Apart from this, MoldEZ also comes in handy as an adhesive for binding the alginate mold to the mother mold. Apply it generously all over the separated area. You can also use it to fill any pin holes in the alginate molds prior to casting.