Minature Casting

[sparto]

I am not sure if this is in the correct forum, but I will give it a shot.

I was looking at getting into casting parts for my minatures. I was using looking to use a Smooth-On product call Moldmax 30 to create the molds and I was looking to use a product for the resin called Smooth Cast 300. I tried a few attempts with a different mold mix and the Smooth cast 300 ... that did not turn out too well. I was wondering if anyone can give me some suggestions on what I can do to be sucessful at this, tips, tricks, suggested materials, etc ... The only thing to keep in mind is product availability as I live in Victoria BC.

Thanks again

 

[Bloodhowl]

What are you having difficulty with, the mold making, casting, or both? Usually the issue with not so good results stems from difficulty in making a good mold, which is rectified through education on the mold making process and practice. I've attached a bunch of links that have very good video tutorials covering both casting and mold making.

Hirst Arts:
Casting: http://www.hirstarts.com/casting/casting.html
Mold Making: http://www.hirstarts.com/moldmake/moldmaking.html

Freeman Manufacturing:
http://www.freemansupply.com/video.htm

Smooth on:
http://www.smooth-on.com/media.php

Alumilite:
http://www.alumilite.com/HowTos.cfm

 

[Einion]

I tried a few attempts with a different mold mix and the Smooth cast 300 ... that did not turn out too well.

Would help to know what went wrong. Problems with bubbles, excess material (mould seepage), mould engineering, resin sticking to the mould, issues with the short working time?

But regardless, Smooth-On have loads of info on their site, that would be one of the first places to look for help.

Einion