Home >> Hobbies >> Other Hobbies

How to Make Metal Cowboys

Casting metal miniature figures is fun and rewarding for both hobbyists and serious collectors. Kits are available that include tools essential to creating die-cast figures. The process involves pouring hot, molten metal, so adult supervision is essential when young children are present. With proper safety precautions, casting miniature figures is an enjoyable family activity.

Things You'll Need

Cowboy Mold
Metal
Melting pot
Ladle
Clamp
Talcum powder
Knife
File

Instructions

- 1
  Heat the mold in a warm oven. Examine the two parts of the mold. Locate the opening where the metal is poured into the mold. Dust the entire mold, including the pouring holes, with talcum powder.
- 2
  Close the mold by slapping it together to remove excess talcum. Place the mold in a clamp. Do not over-clamp. Air must escape quickly to prevent gaps in the fill.
- 3
  Heat the metal in the melting pot. Use caution. The molten metal will be very hot. Melt sufficient metal to complete the pour.
- 4
  Pour the molten metal into the pour hole. Pour slow and steady. Do not stop in the middle of a pour. Push any "slag," molten scum, away from the spout or ladle. Avoid getting slag in the mold. Tap the mold to settle the metal. Continue tapping until the metal begins to cool and stiffen. Do not tap after the metal begins to set. This will cause the figure to crack. Wait five minutes.
- 5
  Open the mold. Gently remove the cast figure. File the bottom of the figure smooth. Trim away any "flash" (the metal that may be around the edges where the two molds join) with a sharp knife.

Other Hobbies