3D Two-part Block Mold Making Tutorial
A 3D two-part mold is ideal for creating silicone works with complex shapes. Through step-by-step pouring of silicone and a clever open-close design, it can perfectly replicate the details of the master mold. The key lies in layered curing and using Vaseline as a release agent to ensure smooth opening and closing of the mold. This molding technique is particularly suitable for three-dimensional sculptural ornaments, metal accessories, and more. It is recommended to watch the video tutorial first before getting started, as it will make the process easier to understand. We will guide you through Join us in fully mastering this fun handcrafting skill—let’s begin!
Material Preparation
- Materials: Silicone Rubber (15A~30A is recommended), mold housing (acrylic sheets or cardboard), resin strips, Vaseline, PVC
- Tools: Hot melt glue gun, measuring cups, container, electronic scale, mixing sticks
- Protective Equipment: Always wear nitrile waterproof gloves, a waterproof apron, and a vapor mask for safe handling.
Environment Setup
- Ideal Conditions: Maintain a temperature between 73–78°F with humidity no higher than 50–60% RH.
- Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area, ideally near a window, or use an air purifier for better airflow.
Precautions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Based on the precautions mentioned above, let's go through the complete process step by step.
Measure the Amount of Silicone Needed
1. Secure the master mold in a container. Fill the container with water until it fully covers both the master mold and its enclosure.
2. Pour water into a measuring cup and measure its volume. This volume represents the total amount of silicone liquid needed. Then purchase an appropriate amount accordingly.
3D Two-part Block Mold Making
3. Determine Dimensions
Place the master mold on a PVC sheet, then construct a mold housing around it based on the model's size. Seal the edges with hot glue to prevent any silicone liquid from leaking out.
4. Layered Pouring
Pour a 0.4~0.8 inch thick layer of silicone mixture (You can pour water to test the height, then calculate the required amount of silicone). Allow it to be cured for 3~6 hours.
5. Secure the Master Mold
Place the master mold onto the cured silicone base. Apply hot glue to the resin strips and position them at the four corners.
The height of the resin strips must exceed half the height of the master mold.
Tip: Inject transparent resin into a straw, let it cure, remove the straw, and trim it to create resin strips.
6. Create the Injection Gate
Fix a resin strip to the bottom of the master mold. The resin strip must contact both the mold housing and the master mold, as this will form the channel for the injection gate.
7. Apply Vaseline
Apply Vaseline evenly onto the cured silicone surface. Also coat the inner surfaces of the holes left by the removed resin bars.
8. Pour the Top Layer
Pour the silicone mixture until the master model is completely covered. Allow the silicone to be cured for 3~6 hours.
9. Demolding
After full curing, remove the mold housing and demold it to obtain the two-part mold. Remember to remove the resin strips at the bottom, as this is the entry point for pouring resin into the master mold later.
Precise Layering, Perfect Replication—Bring Your Ideas to Life with Every Open and Close. By following the steps above, you can effortlessly craft professional-grade silicone molds!
