Make a Fiberglass Molding
Fiberglass molds can be created in many different shapes and forms. Like any other molds it is most important to have no blind or reverse angles that can trap your subject within the mold. To accomplish this we must plan to create the mold in sections. Using a release agent that works with the resin is also very important
Contents
Steps
- Plan the project carefully so that the mold can be removed (or the casting can be removed from the mold).
- Select the material you will use for the mold. Different shapes require different materials, here are examples:
- Square, rectangular, or other angular objects can be molded with wood or plywood.
- Rounded, curved, or complex shaped may be created by carving and/or laminating urethane or Styrofoam blocks or sheets.
- Very complex shapes may be created using vacuum-formed thermoplastics.
- Flat sheets may have fiberglass added on any smooth, non-porous material like masonite or sheet metal.
- Build your form/mold to meet your specifications, taking care to bevel or round and sharp corners which will make removing the cast fiberglass difficult.
- Coat the mold with a form releases compound. Some shapes can be covered with simple waxed paper if you have no form release agent available.
- Glass the project according to your needs, applying sufficient glass matte or chopped fiberglass and resin to give you the strength you need.
- Allow the resin to completely cure before removing the finished project.
Tips
- Time spent planning the project is time well spent, especially in estimating the amount of materials you will need, and the the cutting and fitting stage of mold construction.
- Be prepared to stay with the process of applying the fiberglass until each stage is complete.
- Some projects can be created using an integral form, one that is simply covered in fiberglass and left as part of the finished structure.
Warnings
- Fiberglass solvents are highly flammable, use in a well ventilated area.
- Fiberglass can produce airborne particles and fibers which should not be inhaled or consumed, so use proper hygiene during the process.
- Avoid getting fiberglass resin and solvents on unprotected skin.
