SLIP MOULDS
Slip mould design process
Step 1
Mould design
Whether it's a physical form to copy, a sketch or even just an idea in your head. I can turn this into a 3D model that can be 3D printed to check you're happy with it.
Price guide: £32.50 per 30mins of design
most simple designs can be done in 30mins.
Step 2
Print to test
Next I can 3D print the design to test the form. There's nothing like actually holding the form in your hand to be sure it's what you intended.
Price guide: £5 - £15 printing + postage
Step 3
Mould design and print
Once you're happy with the form I then design a master mould, 3D print the components then assemble. I include silicone seals to prevent plaster leakage.
Step 4
Plaster moulding
It's time to pour some plaster! I use potters plaster and mix to the 140's ratio for optimum strength. I include 3D printed mould keys (natches) for alignment. They're 3D printed to allow me to lap the mating surfaces for better alignment and minimal split lines on the final form.
Step 5
Testing
The plaster takes a week or two to fully dry. Once it has we can finally slip cast! Here I test for alignment, mould release, surface finish and ease of use.
Price guide for custom designs
I can quote for all 5 steps or just a selection. E.g. you may just want the design files to 3D print yourself. Or maybe you just want the 3D master mould to pour your own. Here are some typical examples:
Custom design and 3D print files to print yourself - £30 - £150 depending on complexity
Custom design and supplied 3D printed master mould - £50 - £200 depending on complexity
Custom design, 3D printed master mould and plaster mould - £80 - £250 depending on complexity and number of moulds.
How many plaster moulds can I get out of a 3D printed master mould? I haven't found a limit yet. One of my moulds as produced 18 plaster moulds and counting. They are robust enough to produce many moulds for many years.
What do I print the moulds out of? Standard PLA is fine for printing long lasting moulds.
What if I want a replacement mould? I can print you a new one for the cost of the printing and postage. This is usually
What if I want a small adjustment to the mould? This is usually straightforward and can be done quickly and cheaply.
I need help. I'm not getting the results I wanted. Feel free to get in touch and I'll do my best to help you out to achieve what you desire. I'm always happy to pass on tips and tricks for getting good quality slip casts out of your moulds.
I need help. I'm not getting the results I wanted. Feel free to get in touch and I'll do my best to help you out to achieve what you desire. I'm always happy to pass on tips and tricks for getting good quality slip casts out of your moulds.
Will you sell my mould design to someone else? Absolutely not. Your design is for your eyes only. I never discuss details of other customers nor do I reuse designs.
Contact
Either use this contact form or any of the details at the bottom of this page.
