Working with Silicone and Flexible Moulds in Hobby Resin

Benefits of Silicone and Flexible Moulds

Silicone moulds are prized for their non-stick surface, allowing resin castings to be removed cleanly and with minimal risk of damage. Flexible moulds can capture intricate detail, making them suitable for jewellery, charms and small ornaments. Their flexibility also means a range of shapes and sizes are possible, from small pendants to larger, more complex designs.

Choosing the Right Resin for Mould Work

Not all resins behave the same in flexible moulds. For pieces up to 1.5cm thick, an odourless option like “Icrystal” Clear Epoxy Resin offers excellent clarity and is compatible with silicone. For slightly thicker layers, “Trasparente” Epoxy Resin can be poured up to 2cm, while “EpoxyTable 5-Five” is suitable for deeper items. Always match the resin to both your mould size and the level of detail required.

Tips for Successful Releases and Detail

• Ensure your silicone mould is clean and free of dust before pouring resin.
• If using a new mould, wash and dry it thoroughly to prevent imperfections.
• Pour resin slowly to minimise air bubbles, and consider using a toothpick to help resin settle into fine details.
• Allow adequate curing time before demoulding to avoid distortion or sticking.