How to Use a Fiberglass Mold
Do you wish to preserve something? Using fiberglass as a mold works well. It takes some patience, but the results are worth it. Fiberglass is even the method of choice of some taxidermists for preserving game fish. Read this eHow to learn how to use a fiberglass mold.
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Instructions
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1
Choose the form that you want to replicate, be it a bottle, a fish or whatever it is. If the item has any soft surfaces, like cloth or wood, plaster, or even putty, seal it with lacquer or resin.
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2
Coat the form (the "plug") with a plastic film. Apply three coats. Let each coat dry for at least a half an hour. Use a gelcoat gun.
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3
Apply a coat of wax to the plug. This helps ensure the plug will come free from the mold easily. A brush works well to apply the wax.
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Add a wax-free gelcoat layer. Dark gelcoat is best as that helps you see more easily if the gelcoat layer is even. Use a gelcoat gun that has air pressure of 80 to 90 pounds.
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Use a brush to apply gelcoat if you prefer not to spray. Let the first coat dry for several hours before applying the second one.
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Let the gelcoat cure from two hours to overnight. You should be able to scratch the gelcoat without removing any with your fingernail.
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Create a skin coat with ¾ or one ounce fiberglass mat. Apply resin to the fiberglass with a mohair brush. Remove any air bubbles with a roller, then apply the fiberglass to the plug.
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Add another layer of fiberglass mat after allowing the first mat to dry for a day. You can use a thicker, half inch mat for the following layers.
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Allow the mold cure for several days. This gives the mold the most strength.
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10
Trim any excess. Use a saber saw.
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Sand the edges of the mold, exposing the line between the plug and the mold.
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Insert a wooden stick that's been sharpened in the line. Gently work it around the mold, until the edges are clear. If need be, use a rubber mallet.
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Pull the plug free.
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Sand the mold surface until smooth, then clean it with a compound that's designed for fiberglass. Applying a glaze makes the fiberglass shine.
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