If you’ve ever wondered what silicone rubber is and how it fits into creative or industrial projects, you’re not alone. This page explains the properties and practical uses of silicone rubber, with a special focus on mould making. Whether you’re a professional artisan, a passionate crafter or simply looking to understand this versatile material, you’ll find the essential information you need here. We’ll compare key types of silicone rubbers, highlight their differences, and help you decide which is most suitable for your intended application.

Understanding Silicone Rubber: Key Properties and Comparison

Silicone rubber is a highly flexible, durable, and temperature-resistant material widely used in mould making, casting, prototyping, and crafts. It stands out from other rubbers due to its unique composition, offering excellent resistance to chemicals, stability at various temperatures, and the ability to faithfully replicate intricate details. When selecting a silicone rubber, it’s vital to consider attributes such as flexibility, ease of mixing, curing time, and intended use – for example, liquid silicone rubber for intricate moulds versus putty for quick, hand-formed shapes. Below you’ll find the main differences between the most popular silicone rubbers for mould making:

• Liquid silicones are ideal for capturing fine details and for pouring into complex forms.
• Silicone putty is perfect for fast, on-the-spot moulds with a simple mix-and-press method.
• Some silicones are translucent to allow visual check during setting, whilst others might be opaque.
• Mixing ratio, working time, and shore hardness vary, so matching these to your project needs is essential.

See Silicone Rubber in Action

View examples of detailed moulds, flexible putty applications and complex casting projects achieved using resin-compatible silicone rubbers. Notice the clarity, flexibility and precision these materials provide.

“Pure Mould” – Translucent Liquid Silicone Rubber for Mould Making

“Pure Mould” – Translucent Liquid Silicone Rubber for Mould Making represents a platinum-based silicone that sets the standard for quality and versatility in mould making. Its easy 1:1 mix ratio, rapid catalysis (3-8 hours), and transparent appearance make it exceptionally user-friendly. ‘Pure Mould’ is ideal for professionals and hobbyists creating detailed and reusable moulds compatible with a wide variety of materials, including epoxy resins, polyesters, polyurethanes, acrylics, cements, plasters and hot waxes (commonly used in candle making). Its high mechanical strength ensures long-lasting performance and less mould shrinkage over time, with a formula that is both cruelty free and vegan friendly.

“Liquid Mould” – Casting Liquid Silicone Rubber, 5-40 Shores, Bi-Component A+B

For projects demanding extremely fine detail, “Liquid Mould” – Casting Liquid Silicone Rubber, 5-40 Shores, Bi-Component A+B is the professional’s choice. Its low-viscosity, bi-component formulation is perfect for intricate objects, artistic foundries, and complex jewellery. ‘Liquid Mould’ excels at reproducing small shapes with pronounced undercuts, and is suitable for resin, soap, polymer pastes, as well as for technical and artistic applications. The required catalyst addition ensures a thorough cure, which typically takes 10 to 12 hours. Its flexibility is complemented by strong mechanical properties, making it fit for repeated use on demanding projects.

“I–Gum” – Non-Toxic Silicone Putty for Mould Making

If you prefer an easy-to-handle, mess-free approach, “I–Gum” – Non-Toxic Silicone Putty for Mould Making is a standout choice. As a two-component, non-toxic putty, ‘I-Gum’ is mixed 1:1 and can be safely handled without gloves or odours. Its extended working time of 20 minutes allows for corrections while forming the mould. This makes it especially convenient for making quick-impression moulds for coasters, trays, frames, and decorative objects with resin, polyurethanes, wax, or cement. Like other ResinPro silicones, ‘I-Gum’ is cruelty free, vegan friendly, and manufactured to high European standards.

Choosing the Right Silicone Rubber for Your Project

Selecting the correct silicone rubber depends on factors like project scale, the level of detail needed, and handling preferences. Liquid silicone rubber (such as “Pure Mould” or “Liquid Mould”) is best when you require superior detail and durability for multiple uses, particularly in casting resins, plasters, or wax. If your goal is speed and ease of use, especially for smaller or flatter objects, “I–Gum” putty is an accessible alternative that eliminates the fuss of liquids and is safe when working in less ventilated spaces. For more categories and further guidance, visit our Silicone Rubbers Category.

Project Tips & Professional Advice

Consider your project requirements carefully. For maximum detail and repeated casting, liquid silicones excel. For speed and small items, silicon putty is ideal. Always follow the mixing and safety guidelines provided for each product.