How to Choose the Perfect Mold for Making Squishies？
There are all kinds of interesting molds on the market that make people eager to create squishy shapes with them. Since squishy products are made of relatively soft materials, not all molds are suitable for making squishy products. The hardness, material, texture, and depth of the mold;reatly affect the quality of the finished product. Improper molds can lead to problemssuch as difficulty in demolding, shape tearing, and blurred details. We're here to help you pick the perfect mold for your next squishy creation. Let’s dive into what to avoid and what to look for when selecting your ideal mold.
- What to avoid when choosing a mold?
- How to choose the right mold?
What to Avoid When Choosing a Mold?
- Molds with Shallow Textures
Molds with shallow textures often lead to blurred or faded details, especially when you're trying to add multiple colors - the lines just don't hold the definition well. And when decorating, the resin or pigment may easily overflow the edges, making the design look messy or smudged. To keep your squishy looking sharp and detailed, go for molds with deeper, well-defined textures that bring out every curve and contour.
- Molds That Are Too Thin
If the mold is thinner than 1.2 inches (about 3 cm), it’s more likely to tear the squishy when you’re demolding it. Thin molds can’t hold up well to the squishy material’s flexibility, and that could mean some frustrating moments trying to get your squishy out without damaging it.
- Overly Deep or Intricate Designs
Super detailed designs with thin elements (like delicate claws or antennae) can break or tear easily when you try to remove the squishy from the mold. Simplicity is sometimes the key to durability.
- Machine-Made Molds
While machine molds might seem like a good idea at first, over time, they can suffer from issues like chemical corrosion, distortion, and blurry details. The molds we offered can be used with epoxy resin and flex rubber, but please note that they may wear out more quickly compared to when used with epoxy resin.
- Molds with Rough Surfaces
A mold with an unpolished surface can make demolding a real headache. The rough texture can grab onto your squishy, causing it to tear or lose its shape. Smooth surfaces = smoother releases!
- Molds with Too Much Hardness
While hard molds might sound sturdy, they lack the flexibility needed for easy demolding, especially with complex shapes. They can make it much harder to remove squishies without risking damage.
How to Choose the Right Mold?
Now that you know what to avoid, here’s how to pick a mold that will help you create squishies that turn out perfect every time:
1. Material Selection:
Go for handmade silicone molds! Handmade molds are thicker, durable, and generally the best choice for squishy creations. If you’re making your own molds, aim for silicone with a hardness of 10-15A. This range strikes the perfect balance of flexibility and stability.
2. The Right Thickness:
Look for molds that are at least 1.2 inches (3 cm) thick. Thicker molds provide better structural integrity, helping to prevent tears or deformities when you demold your squishy.
3. Clear, Three-Dimensional Texture:
Choose molds with clear contours and three-dimensional shapes. A well-defined texture ensures that your squishy will come out crisp and clean, with all those beautiful details intact. Avoid molds with shallow or faint textures that can make things blurry.
4. Avoid Overly Complex Shapes:
Molds with too many delicate parts are more prone to breakage during the demolding process. Keep it simple for the best results.
5. Smooth, Polished Surface:
A polished surface is a must! A smooth mold surface will help your squishy come out easily without sticking or tearing. Always check for a well-finished mold to save you frustration later.
By following these guidelines, you’ll significantly increase your chances of creating squishies that are not only cute but also durable and easy to work with. While handmade silicone molds may have a higher upfront cost, their long-lasting quality and ability to maintain their shape make them a more economical choice in the long run.