Choosing Between Silicone Putty and Liquid Silicone Rubber for Mould Making

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If you’re looking to create moulds for casting resin, wax, or other materials, choosing between silicone putty and liquid silicone rubber is an important first step. Both materials offer unique benefits depending on your project’s needs and the level of detail required.

Silicone Putty: Fast, Simple Moulding for Hands-On Projects

Silicone putty is ideal for makers who want a quick and straightforward moulding process. The putty is mixed by hand, typically in a 1:1 ratio, so the process is clean and requires minimal tools. Simply knead the components together and press the putty around your object. This method works well for flat items or pieces with low to moderate detail, such as coasters, shallow decorations, or frames.

Quick setting – usually sets in around 20–40 minutes.
Minimal mess and easy clean-up.
Perfect for small batches or when you need a mould in a hurry.

If you need an easy starting point, I–Gum Non-Toxic Silicone Putty is a reliable choice for general mould making.

Liquid Silicone Rubber: Detail and Flexibility for Complex Shapes

For projects where fine detail and intricate shapes matter, liquid silicone rubber is a better fit. As a pourable material, it flows around your master item to capture tiny features and deep undercuts that putty might miss. This makes it ideal for replicating objects with surface textures, complex geometry, or jewellery-sized details. Liquid silicone does require a mould box and careful mixing, and the curing time is longer – typically several hours.

Captures deep details and textures.
Excellent for multi-part or professional-grade moulds.
Best suited for projects like miniatures, sculptures, and detailed replicas.

Consider products like Pure Mould Liquid Silicone Rubber or Liquid Mould Casting Silicone for these tasks.

When to Use Each Material

If speed and simplicity are your priorities, or you’re working with non-complex shapes, silicone putty is efficient and fuss-free. If you need to replicate delicate features or work with items that have significant depth and curves, liquid silicone rubber is worth the extra effort and time.

Related guides

Your choice depends on your mould complexity, desired level of detail, and the pace of your project. For more tips on mould making options, return to our Silicone Putty for Mould Making Solutions hub.