Detail Casting
The Breather Units
In this area I will show you a technique to create multiple "identical" pieces. Below I am making the Breather units for the Guyver Helmet sculpture.
First off ignore the "Elvis Coaster" I used to cast this on. (having a slick laminated surface it was readily suited for my needs) I recommend you use a sheet of Wax paper to sculpt on. (unless you have an Elvis coaster too =) Anyhow,.. here I have sculpted the breather out of a Silicone compatible oil based clay (the same stuff I have been using for all previous steps) and I have gently heated it with the heat Gun. (as shown previously)
Next a trip to the Hardware store is in order. You will need to have a tube of 100% Silicone Caulk (must be 100% Silicone) and a Caulk Gun.
Now, starting from the center and working your way out slowly and carefully begin to cover the entire surface of the sculpture.
After an hour or so the Caulk will begin to form a skin on its surface. You can now very gently pat it with your fingertips to help the silicone work its way into the detailed and low lying areas of the sculpture.
After letting the Silicone set up for at least 24hrs. make a retainer wall out of clay. Be sure that the clay barrier is secure around the base.
Next mix up a small batch of Plaster. (you'll want it to be pretty thick) Here I am spooning in the plaster, filling up the retainer walls.
As the plaster starts firming up, work it up higher in the center. Just before it is set, or just after, you can smooth, sand or flatten the top of the plaster. (this way later when you turn it over to use it the mold will set flat and not rock around) Shown above the plaster has set and I have removed the clay barrier wall from around the sides of the piece.
Here I have separated the Silicone & Plaster backing from the Elvis base and then pulled out the clay from the Silicone.Now you have a Silicone mold which you can cast the pieces for the breathers, or any other small area of your costume.
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PART 2
