Rubber mold for plaster

Another cool design from Proteus.

table used for plaster mold plaster mold prepared
Project begins from this plastic table Proteus found on a trash pile. I'm sorry the sides got thrown away. They would have made a great cast as well. Proteus took the top off and painted it white. This is to seal any pores that might catch the mold rubber and seal up any dirt or goo. A box is made from a square piece of plywood and one by fours.
joints filled with spackle plaster mold
Joints in the plywood are sealed with vinyl Spackle. The edge of the medallion (where the medallion joint the plywood) are also sealed. Inside of box is spray painted. This seals the pores and eliminates the need for mold release. The medallion is sprayed with mold release that was bought at the craft store (Michael's)
pouring rubber mold finished rubber mold
Box is set on a level area and poured with PMC 724 from Smooth-on. Room was left in the box to pour a plaster mold backup. It is more economical to just cover the model 1/2" or so with mold rubber, and fill the rest with plaster. This was poured extra thick and level, so there is no need for a backup, but it costs more in material to to it this way. All Proteus cares about is the work, he disregards his personal safety and well being. What we have here is a very durable rubber mold that be used to cast left over stucco finish, moulding plaster or concrete. The inside should be sprayed with mold release every pour. The excess mold release should be wiped off. Too much mold release can soften and weaken the surface. Proteus just did a decorative fireplace hearth and some other cool stuff. Please check back for some more unique designs..