Silicone Molds

Why use silicone molds?

One of the key advantages of silicone molds is their compatibility with various craft materials. Whether it’s resin, polymer clay, or even chocolate, silicone molds provide a reliable and non-stick surface for casting. For resin artists, silicone molds allow for the creation of intricate shapes and designs, as the flexible material can capture even the tiniest details of the original model. The smooth and non-porous nature of silicone ensures that the resin cures evenly, resulting in high-quality, bubble-free casts.

Similarly, polymer clay artists benefit greatly from using silicone molds. These molds make it easy to create consistent and repeatable shapes, such as beads, pendants, or miniature sculptures. The flexible nature of silicone molds allows for easy demolding without distorting or damaging the clay creations. It enables artists to reproduce intricate patterns and textures effortlessly, enhancing the overall visual appeal of their polymer clay projects.

Silicone molds also offer the advantage of being reusable. They can withstand multiple uses without losing their shape or effectiveness. The flexibility of silicone allows for easy removal of the casted objects, eliminating the need for additional release agents. This makes the molding process more efficient and cost-effective, as artists can create multiple pieces from a single mold.

Can silicone resin molds go in the oven?

Our silicone molds can be used in an oven for curing polymer clay. Be sure not to exceed the temperature and time as recommended by the manufacturer of the polymer clay. Silicone molds are safe only at polymer clay curing temperature ranges and shouldn’t be used under very high temperatures.

How to stop resin from sticking to a silicone mold

Generally, resin should lift out of a silicone mold quite easily. Ensure the mold is clean prior to use and once the resin has cured, carefully peel the mold away from the silicone piece.

Here are some other tips to prevent resin from sticking to a silicone mold in case you have issues with it:

• Clean and prepare the mold: Before using the silicone mold, make sure it is clean and free from any dust, debris, or residue. You can wash it with mild soap and water, then dry it thoroughly.
• Apply a mold release agent: To create a barrier between the resin and the mold surface, you can use a mold release agent. There are various options available, such as commercial mold release sprays, petroleum jelly (Vaseline), or a thin layer of baby powder or talcum powder. Apply the chosen release agent to the mold, ensuring an even and light coating.
• Use a proper resin-to-hardener ratio: It is crucial to mix the resin and hardener in the correct ratio as instructed by the manufacturer. An improper ratio can lead to the resin not curing properly and potentially sticking to the mold.
• Pour the resin carefully: When pouring the resin into the mold, try to pour it slowly and in a controlled manner. This helps minimise air bubbles and reduces the chances of resin overflow, which can lead to sticking.
• Demolding properly: Once the resin has cured according to the manufacturer’s instructions, gently flex the mold to release the resin. Avoid pulling or twisting the mold too forcefully, as it may cause the resin to stick or damage the mold.

If you still encounter some sticking issues, you can try applying a little bit of gentle heat to the back of the mold using a heat gun or a hairdryer set on low. This can help loosen the resin and make it easier to release from the mold.

Remember to always read and follow the instructions provided with your specific resin and mold to ensure the best results and prevent any unwanted sticking.

How to clean silicone resin molds

Cleaning silicone resin molds is a pretty straightforward process. Here are the steps to ensure you’ve effectively cleaned your silicone molds:

• Remove excess resin or clay: Before cleaning, remove any excess resin or clay from the mold. You can gently peel or scrape off the cured resin using a soft tool like a silicone spatula or your fingertips.
• Wash with mild soap and water: Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap. Place the silicone mold in the soapy water and use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the surface of the mold. Pay attention to any areas with stubborn residue or stains.
• Rinse thoroughly: Once you’ve cleaned the mold, rinse it under running water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that all soap is thoroughly washed away, as any remaining residue can affect the appearance and quality of future resin castings.
• Dry the mold: After rinsing, pat the mold dry with a clean towel or let it air dry completely before using or storing. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals to dry the mold, as they can damage the silicone.
• Optional: Use isopropyl alcohol: If you have stubborn residue or stains on the mold, you can try using isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) as a cleaning agent. Dampen a cloth or cotton ball with the alcohol and gently wipe the affected areas. Rinse the mold with water afterward and dry it thoroughly.

Remember to handle silicone molds with care to avoid any tears or damage. Store them in a clean and dry location, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, to maintain their quality for future use.

Where to buy silicone molds in Australia

Beads N Crystals has a great range of silicone molds for sale to use with UV resin, epoxy resin or polymer clay. A selection of molds under the Sculpey brand are also available in our Polymer Clay category.