Let me prefix this by saying that this is really a bit of fun, I wanted to learn the techniques required and try and produce some unique and fun artisans for me.
I pondered over a design for a while, didn't really want a skull, not skilled to start with layers etc so started to mould out a character similar to what i would draw and doodle in 2D.
Yes there is certainly a reference to a familiar biscuit monster there, I was hoping that it wouldn't cause much concern.
Setting out my stall, decided to do some blanks at the same time. Not the little platforms under the keys, not a good idea.
Moulds went ok ish
Tragedy, the clay came off - complete failure.
"I just want to take your...Face...Off"
We pick ourselves up, but this time with Milliputt.
Quick test while hardening - nice. I like him.
Trying to visualise his character.
Let's try again.
Drilling sprues went badly, the platform caused it to rip. Luckily above (below) the cap so didnt really matter but means messy finishing. We live and learn.
Bar a bubble or two not too bad. Considering I may start injecting the resin rather than plopping the positive into the negative.
The top looks good bar some specs of milliputt embedded left from the mould.
Wonder what he's looks like as a triple shot?
With LED glow - cool actually.
Trying again in black with mica dust.
Turned out pretty well.
All three tries so far.
Decided to cast another, and a skull because that's what we do.
Looks pretty nice.
Let's try something harder, some double shots.
I added some fluorescent blue pigment and some glitter and used my two moulds (including the new cleaner one you saw above). I actually really liked how these came out.
Right pair on the board.
So that's where I'm up to now. It's fun, it's slow and it costs more than you'd expect.
I'm now making neater moulds and using syringes to fill them, closing them properly with bands. A vacuum chamber I'm sure would make them better but for now I'm doing what I can without it ending in a divorce.
It's a fun process, and now I've got the glitter suspension worked out (and I have a ton of pigments and other bits) I'm going to keep experimenting with colours, techniques and double / multi shotting.
Hope you have enjoyed my little journey.
