Day 5 - Removing the mold and pouring the cast

Unfortunately, while removing the mold from the clay model, I accidentally cracked the mold into half diagonally across. The instructor managed to help me salvage the situation by adding additional plaster and fiberglass as reinforcement on the reverse side.

Eventually after another curing period, I manage to remove the clay model from the mold without leaving too much clay materials on it. What a relief. Well, the next step is to wash the mold clean of the clay like the picture below.

Next is to mix sufficient plaster for my cast. This is getting exciting, finally I can see it in its final form. Before I can pour the plaster, I need to coat the mold with a release agent. Since we are casting in plaster, the release agent is soap. Industrial soap is needed in this case, not any ordinary soap. This has to be done systematically as uncoated areas will pose a problem later on. We do not want to see a broken piece of plaster cast. :P

There is however an additional step to just pouring plaster into the mold.

Fiberglass has to be added to reinforce and strengthen the plaster cast.

Fiber reinforcement is needed because generally plaster is still quite fragile. Industrial fiberglass is kindof toxic and care should be taken when handling the material. Try to avoid (as instructed) touching your sensitive areas like armpit, inside of the elbow or neck when you are handling it.

If develop rash or itch, wash the affected areas as soon as possible and see a doctor if complications occur. According to the instructor, the amount of fiberglass we are handling is too little to cause any hazardous results, but care is till needed.

During pouring, as soon as the plaster amount reach 2/3 (2 third) of the mold, lay thin sheets of cut up fiberglass throughout the surface. Work fast to make sure the remaining plaster do not cure. Pour in the remaining plaster to the brim of the mold once done.



Level out the plaster within the mold and finally, you can take a short break after this. The plaster will take 45 mins to cure, after which you will get to see the final sculpture!

See ya again!

:)