Molding A Complex Original Model

Molding A Complex Original Model

Ever wonder how to make a mold of a complex original? Sculptor Bill Kilpatrick’s exquisite creation entitled “ Celebration“ posed just such a molding challenge. Sculpted from Chavant^® modeling clay, the piece had delicate detail, complex angles and severe undercuts that would test even the most experienced mold maker. Tim Maslyn’s answer was simple: “break it down and make multiple molds and castings”.

The goal was to reproduce the detail of the piece exactly. Mr. Kilpatrick need multiple castings for upcoming exhibitions, and the finished castings had to be inexpensive and lightweight. Conventional molding and casting methods did not lend themselves to this application.

Each porcelain-like reproduction made was identical to the original clay sculpture. An assembled finished casting weighs less than 40 lbs. and can easily be carried by one person. The original weighed over 300 lbs.

For more information, contact:
Bill Kilpatrick, Sculptor - Tel. (732) 291-4056
Tim Maslyn Studios - www.maslynstudios.com
Chavant Modeling Clay: www.chavant.com

1 - Bill Kirkpatrick touches up his original clay sculpture	2 - Tim Maslyn helps cut the clay model into sections	3 - Maslyn clays up the female model for molding
4 - The clay shim provides a flange to support the first half of the mold until rubber and support shell are cured	5 - Channels are carved into clay to form a tight fit for rubber mold halves	6 - The female portion of the sculpture has been shimmed so two rubber mold halves will fit together
7 - Brush-On® 40 rubber is applied to the piece in four separate layers	8 - Alternate layers of rubber are tinted to assure thorough coverage	9 - Plasti-Paste® is applied to form a strong, light support shell
10 - Mold is removed from clay and has captured perfect detail	11 - Smooth-Cast® 320 liquid plastic is painted onto the surface of the mold	12 - Mold halves are strapped together for rotational casting of plastic
13 - More resin is poured into the mold to strengthen the seam	14 - Rubber mold has recreated every detail of the original	15 - The female model is reproduced as a hollow casting identical to the original.
16 - Foam-iT!® 5 is poured into the casting to provide structural strength	17 - Plastic castings are assembled to create a perfect reproduction	18 - The finished casting reflects perfect proportion and detail