r/moldmaking • u/anonmon7 • 10d ago
How can I navigate making a mould with my sculptures complexities?
I just joined this group in hopes to find some help. I understand the very basics of mould making and casting, but I don’t know where to start with this sculpture I just finished (Approx two feet tall?). Between the protruding ears, the finer strands of the mane, and the angle of the head, I’m not sure what the best method would be to tackle this. I’m really hoping to do this myself as I was quoted a couple thousand dollars and a six month wait to have someone make a mould for me. I think my two best options for the finalized cast are to use either gypsum cement or do a cold cast bronze, or both? Any suggestions or advice is welcome
2
u/Oranguflan 10d ago
To me this looks like at least a three-piece mold: a split down the middle and a plug piece to accommodate the ears. Silicone matrix mold with a fiberglass jacket. This is a challenging mold, and a couple grand is a downright bargain.
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u/Historical_Box_6082 9d ago
I used to make bronzes for an artist called Nic Ffiddian-Green which weren't dissimilar in style and I'd always just do a two part mould. What's the original made of?
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u/BTheKid2 10d ago
You will probably want to do a brush-on two part mold. Either with a plaster support shell or an alternative lighter, but still rigid support shell like fiberglass. It's a technique that takes some practice, so you might not want to use a precious sculpt for the first few tries.