Make Your Own Silicone Release On A Budget: Testing Handmade VS Mann 200 

I think a very important thing is being overlooked. I'm no expert but I've looked at a of videos on the subject by professionals. I have consistently watched them say that releasing is only one of TWO functions providing by a release. The second function is to increase the longevity of your molds, which often can last only last 20-30 casts. They say repeated casts start eating into the sides of the mold, and commercial molds can get expensive. So my "takeaway" is at least use SOMETHING. With resin being as expensive as it is and with commercial release agents not being all that expensive, I'm opting for using them. But very nice, thoughtful video.

I do blacksmithing mainly, but recently got into lost wax silver casting. I have been using silicone molds then filling them with wax to use in my silver pours. When making a multi part mold, Let each part of the mold completely cure first. If its not 100% cured, the next part of the mold will really stick to it after it sets up. But if the first part is 100% cured, you can peal the next part away without mold release. It will stretch your mold though and shorten its lifespan. I use Vaseline but only a super thin smear. Works perfectly and doesn't interfere with the silicone hardening process. Right now I'm working on a 3 part mold of a life sized medical grade human skull replica that will be poured in .999fine silver. I have the first 2 parts of the mold done and waiting on the full cure to pour the last part. I forgot to put Vaseline on before the second pour. Worse case scenario i will have to cut it with a razor. But I'm confident it will separate. I'm using 2x number 12 graphite crucibles each with 22 pounds of silver. It should be enough.

Thanks.

Bud you over-sprayed some on the home made one, so I can't be sure.

How long do I have to wait for the homemade agent to dry before I start pouring?

Hi. Could you help me with this? How do i get my silicone sealant to be more liquid and runny? I want it to dry slower, so that i have the time to work on it creatively

Can you diluit enough for co sering a tarp

@AQUARIUMFREAK123 i have silicone molds made with SMOOTH ON platinum silicone... I also am making aquarium decorations so i need a good mold release that is not only AQUARIUM SAFE but i need to paint them... Can i still use your idea safely for these 2 applications.?. or can you recommend a formula for silicone molds ? thanks Reply

"You don't really need a release" isn't the takeaway here, as this isn't going to guarantee separation. Sometimes you get lucky, other times you don't. If you don't get lucky using no release on your mold, you're down a mold.