For our project, we will be casting a small, decorative piece using a silicone mold of your choice. You may use cold casting with any type of silicone mold you have available. Please see the photo below for examples of what the final results will look like. Also, please check the downloadable PDF for product links to the materials used in this class.

Outline of the cold casting process (please watch the videos for details):

Put on your safety gear (gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask). Protect your working area as well since this will get a bit messy.
Determine the volume of resin you will need for your project. If you are using a two-part resin that is mixed at a 1:1 ratio, then your total volume will equal that amount. For example, if my mold required 20ml of resin total, then I would use 10ml resin/plastic and 10ml hardener. Please refer to your resin manufacturer's instructions if you are not using Smooth-Cast 326.
Prepare your mold by dusting it with the metal powder of your choice.
Prepare your two-part resin. Measure out your resin/plastic separate from the hardener. Add your metal powder and black pigment (if using) into the plastic and mix thoroughly before adding the hardener.
Add your hardener into your resin/plastic. Mix thoroughly by scraping the bottom and sides of your mixing cup for at least a minute or until the resin starts to heat up and thicken.
Quickly pour your resin into the mold before it gels too much. Let it cure until hardened completely.
Once your piece has hardened, remove it from the mold.
Using #0 steel wool, buff out the resin piece until it takes on the appearance of brushed, antiqued metal.
Optionally, seal your piece with clear coat or clear resin.

Amy Spears

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