Ceramic molds are a popular way for pottery hobbyists and professionals to make symmetrical and smooth pottery pieces. You can use molds to make anything from pots and vases to ornaments and figurines. There are a variety of ceramic molds to purchase, but you may be looking for something to match your household items or show your unique style. To do this, you may want to explore making your own ceramic molds. This article will explain how to make your own ceramic molds for pottery projects.
Before you make your ceramic mold, you will need to purchase ceramic mold making materials. You will need a sizable glass or plastic bowl, a hard object to mold, polyurethane spray coating, cooking spray, and plaster of paris. These items can be purchased individually or in mold making kits. The hard object you choose can be any item you already have at home, or an item you purchase for replication.
To begin, coat the inside of your plastic or glass bowl with cooking spray. This will help you easily remove the plaster mold once it has dried. You will mix the plaster of paris according to its instructions and pour it into your plastic or glass bowl. Make sure not to fill the bowl more than half way. Quickly spray the hard object you choose with cooking spray and press it into the plaster. Let the item sit in the plaster overnight until it hardens. In the morning you can remove the item and spray the mold with polyurethane coating. This will keep the mold from cracking during use with clay.
To finish the mold process you will need to repeat these steps using the mirror image of your hard object. The mold will work by apply the two pieces together with mineral or modeling clay inside. It may be easier to start making your own molds with smaller objects, as large object molds have a tendency to crack with inexperienced technique. You can find all the materials or kits you need for mold making online or in your local craft and hobby store.
