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How to Make Rubber or Latex Molds

From tiny shirt buttons to larger-than-life statuary, latex molds allow artists, jewelers and modelmakers to make multiple copies of virtually any three-dimensional object. Latex molds are durable, so it is possible to make many castings using plaster of Paris, polyester resin, cement or other material, before a new mold is needed. Latex molding is sometimes called "rubbermolding," although natural rubber is not generally used for this purpose.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean, dry object with a flat back or bottom surface
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Paintbrush
  • Liquid latex, such as Mold Builder or Rub-R-Mold
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set the object with its back or bottom on the sheet of plastic.

    • 2
      Use a paintbrush to apply each layer of liquid latex.

      Brush a thin coat of liquid latex onto the object, covering the plastic for an inch beyond the edge of the object to create a flange for the mold. Allow to dry for 30 minutes.

    • 3

      Brush on at least four additional layers, allowing to dry between each one. The larger the item, the more layers are required to create a strong mold. Very large items may need ten or more layers.

    • 4

      Reinforce the mold with gauze or cheesecloth if you are making a large mold, or if you plan to use a very heavy casting medium. Saturate the cloth with latex and apply to any weak areas that might bulge when the mold is filled. Cover with more layers of liquid latex.

    • 5

      Allow to dry completely overnight. Large molds may require additional drying time.

    • 6

      Carefully peel the mold away from the object by turning it inside out. Once the object is released, the mold should return to its original shape with little coaxing. It is now ready to cast using the medium of your choice.

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Sculpture

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