Mold Making Latex

Liquid Latex Mold Making FAQs:

WHAT MAKES AEROMARINE PRODUCTS’ LIQUID LATEX FOR MOLDS DIFFERENT THAN OTHER PRODUCTS ON THE MARKET?

Our liquid latex for molds is designed to be applied thicker than any other liquid latex, providing easier application and an improved end result—making it the ideal mold builder. We’ve crafted our liquid latex for molding with a medium solids content, which minimizes shrinkage while still allowing your model’s finer details to shine through. Like our RTV mold-making silicone, AeroMarine Products’ liquid latex rubber is relatively quick drying.

WHAT’S THE SHELF LIFE OF AEROMARINE PRODUCTS’ LIQUID LATEX?

Our liquid latex for molding has a shelf life of around six months, so long as it is stored in a cool place, ideally between 60 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir the liquid latex before using each time to ensure your resulting mold is stretchable and flexible.

Pro Tip: Liquid latex that develops a putrid odor or takes on the consistency of cottage cheese has been spoiled, Liquid latex that has been frozen is no longer able to be used for mold making.

HOW TO APPLY AEROMARINE PRODUCTS’ LIQUID LATEX:

1. Start from the top of the model and brush on liquid latex in a thin, even coat
2. After you’ve reached the bottom, continue out from the base to create a 2-inch flange
3. Allow each coat to air-dry completely before you apply the next coat
4. Apply the liquid latex in alternating directions to minimize shrinkage
5. You can use a heat gun on low a foot away from the latex to decrease the cure time between layers

What are the benefits of using liquid latex for mold making?

Liquid latex mold is highly stable and has good tear resistance. Unlike other types of liquid latex, AeroMarine latex mold only has minimal shrinkage because it has a solids content between 68 and 70 percent. You’ll be able to create latex molds that are durable and accurate to every detail.

Use latex mold making if you’re going to be casting your parts in concrete, plaster, or hydrocal. Latex is strong and durable and holds up well even with repeat uses

Do I need to seal my part or piece prior to using it to make a latex mold?

Originals made of oil-based clay, stone, and glazed ceramics typically don’t need to be sealed. But casting objects made of plaster, concrete, water-based clay, wood, and copper should be sealed with a material-appropriate sealant. Always make sure your casting object is free of oil and dirt before you apply liquid latex.

When you’re applying liquid latex, brush the solution onto your piece from top to bottom. Brush the liquid latex 2 inches out from the base and let it dry before you apply another coat. After each coat, brush a coat on a spare piece of cardboard—you can use this one to gauge whether the latex has fully dried. Most molds require 15-20 layers of latex to build up the proper thickness required.

How long does it take to fully cure a latex mold?

Allow 72 hours for your completed latex mold to fully cure, and allow it to cure in a warm area so it strengthens properly.

HOW DO I USE BLACK RUBBER POWDER?

If you’d like to extend and thicken your liquid latex, thereby reducing the number of coats needed, begin by applying four coats of plain liquid latex to your model. After the last coat has dried, mix black rubber powder into your liquid latex up to a 1:1 ratio.

DOES AEROMARINE PRODUCTS’ OFFER OTHER MATERIALS?

We specialize in a variety of products, including other types of mold making materials and casting resins. If you want advice for an upcoming project, our team can help you select a high-quality product that suits your needs.