Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Apply a coat of mold release solution to the inside of the mold halves. This will keep the mold halves from sticking together and make it easier for the metal figure to come free of the mold after it has set.
Lay one half of the mold on a flat surface and press the other half down on top of it so all guide pins line up and the two halves are both oriented the same direction. If using a rubber mold, mount the mold inside of the molding box that came with it. If using a homemade mold, the silicone rubber mold will be inside two matching molding boxes.
Secure the two molds together face to face with heavy duty rubber bands or whatever fastener came with the molds if using a commercial mold. If they are oriented properly the pour hole halves on both molds will line up. Use a toothpick to make sure the pour holes are open and not blocked with debris.
Weigh small pieces of casting metal in the amount called for by the mold. A 54 mm cavalry figure will take approximately 250 grams of metal. Other figures may use more or less. Go by the instructions that come with the mold.
Place the appropriate weight of metal in the casting ladle and place the ladle over the heat source. Tin/bismuth alloy melts about about 160 degrees, attainable with a candle flame or Bunsen burner. Sturdier alloys like crown pewter may require a propane torch or something hotter to melt.
Carefully tip the ladle over the pour hold in the mold and slowly fill till the melted metal fills the opening. Pour slowly to prevent bubbles from forming inside the mold.
Cool the mold on a heat resistant surface for at least 30 minutes before removing the rubber bands or unfastening the mold box.
Separate the mold halves carefully so as not to damage the figure. The figure will usually stick to one half or the other a little. Make sure you don't accidentally release the figure and damage it by dropping it to the floor. Lay the mold halves face up on a flat surface and allow to sit for a moment while you make sure the figure has thoroughly cooled.
Lift the figure from the mold. With your hobby knife, trim any extra bits of metal flashing, the remains of the pour holes or other mismolds. Sand cuts and seams with fine sandpaper to smooth the figure and hide any aberrations in the figure.
Paint the figure with a good oil-based or acrylic paint designed for painting metal figures and coat with a good clear-coat as desired.