Question about making molds & loss of detail

[ID4]

Hi guys just joined the RPF finally

My question is, I would like to turn a plaster mold into silicon mold, so I'm guessing I have to create a master mold first then I can make a silicone mold?

How much detail can I expect to loose, for example will pores on the skin still show up?

If this is in the wrong sub please let me know. Still learning the forum

 

[mcusanelli]

It sounds like you will have to make a casting from your existing mold, and use that as your master, to make a silicone mold. If you're careful, you shouldn't loose much detail. You might loose a couple of percent size wise though....

 

[Richard Baker]

You can also enhance the new master before making the new silicone mold...

 

[Duncanator]

If done properly, silicone will pick up every detail of your original pattern. I've had it pick up fingerprints from handling the pattern while setting up the mold.

 

[mcusanelli]

Also, make sure your master is sealed and not porous, because the silicone will soak into it, for example, if you were to make the master out of plaster.....Years ago I used Butchers Wax that was brushed onto the pattern, and it worked nicely - Just make sure there are no details that are clogged with your release agent and brush marks too