How to Create Plaster Copy of an Action Figure

Hi all,

I've been planing to do a scale model of a human figure, or some scifi/fantasy character for some time. But as it goes my modelling skills just weren't up to the task. That's why I decided to duplicate existing one and then build and model on it. On the firs model You can see the figure i used.

Step 1: Dismantle the Figure

The next step was to dismantle the figure using the screwdriver. If You are using some of the good old GI Joe figures You wont have problems with it. Just remove all the screws on the joints and that's it.

Step 2: Filling Out the Openings on the Parts

IMPORTANT

Before starting to make the mold you must use some modelling clay to close all the openings on Your model. It will be easier later to separate it from the mold

Step 3: Making Thee Stands for the Models

It is good to improvise little handles / stands for your models before you start making molds, like in this picture.

Step 4: Making of the Molds

Now all you need to do is to dip the figure parts into liquid latex milk or some other one component form moulding paste. Before starting read the instructions carefully.

I dipped the figure parts five time every three hours

Step 5: Removing the Molds

After all is done you should have quality moulds ready for removal. They should come of easy from the figure parts, you just have to do it carefully. If they get damaged just use superglue to fix them.

Step 6: Filling the Molds

Now it is time to fill the molds with plaster. When you mix it be quick with the filling of the molds because plaster hardens quickly.

Step 7:

I left plaster to dry out for a day. Now the removal of the molds can be tricky. You have to be careful not to break your copied figure. The best way to do this is to cut the molds sideways and remove the figure parts. After that you can fix the molds with super glue and use them again.

After i done all this steps I will put together the figure to which I will add new features with modelling clay and then repaint it. But this time customisation will be easier because I have a completed figure to work with.

But more on that in the next tutorial,

Have fun ;-)