Introduction: 3d Printed Molds

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Hi All,

In this instructable, I will share how to make a mold using 3d printing tools and cast amazing statues for decor

Supplies

  • 3d Printer
  • Tinkercad
  • Plaster of Paris
  • Acrylic paints and brushes

Step 1: Tinkercad

  • First, we need to find a good 3d model,
  • I choose Moai,
  • as this was a simple design,
  • not many fine details,
  • Symmetrical
  • I got mine on Thingiverse
  • To Make the mold
  • Import the STL file in tinkercad
  • Convert it from solid to a hole
  • Add a Box and adjust the dimensions to be at least 3 to 5 mm larger than the actual stl model
  • Group them and then cut this into half
  • Duplicate the model and then mirror it
  • Turn them to lay flat as shown
  • I have trimmed the mold edges to reduce time and PLA consumption

Step 2: 3d Printing

  • Download the STL file from Cults3d
  • 3d Print with the following settings
  • Resolution : 0.2mm
  • Retraction : 6mm
  • No Support
  • Infill: 20%
  • It took approx 7h to print

Step 3: Casting

  • Apply petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to the inner surface of the mold
  • Using Paper tape, align the 2 parts of the mold
  • Mix Plaster of Paris and water in a 4:1 ratio
  • Pour the mix into the cast and leave it to set
  • After a few hours, gentling demold
  • If any part breaks, use PVA glue to stick it back

Tip:

  • Depending on the quality of the PoP, the setting time may vary
  • Be patient, if the mix does not set in 30 minutes
  • Leave it to dry for a day or redo the mix with lesser water

Step 4: Painting Style 1

  • Paint dark Brown all over the statue
  • Use dark green to highlight the eyes, ears, and nose, this represents the moss growth on the statue
  • Now add some yellow to brown to get a lighter shade of brown, dry brush it on the statue
  • Now with a dry brush dab green across
  • Let this dry and we are done...
  • Place the statues on a bookshelf or showcase. admire the decor

Step 5: Painting Style 2

  • One can get a faux stone look
  • Use light grey to paint the whole statue
  • Now use dark grey to dry brush across
  • Let this dry and we are done.
  • Place the statue on a bookshelf or showcase. admire the decor

Step 6: Tips

  • One can mass produce these statues and create gifts for your friends and family
  • Can experiment with different materials: cement, ceramic powder, etc
  • Using softer filament other than PLA could help in more complex molds
  • Experiment and share your feedback