About Making Belt Buckles

A belt buckle is not only useful, but it can be a fashion statement as well. Designing your own belt buckles gives you the freedom to choose whatever pattern you want, and to adjust the size to your own needs. Learn how to make your own belt buckles to add flare to your belts at home.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden or metal design for buckle
• Box or bucket
• Silicone mold kit
• String and glue (Optional)
• Talcum powder
• Tin-bismuth lead alloy
• Drill (Optional)
• Small nails (Optional)

Instructions

1. Create a master mold to create your belt buckle. To create the design you can either carve it out of wood or use a metal shape, such as a key chain, that features the design you want. Take time to clean the object so dirt and fingerprints don't show in the finished mold. Find a box or small bucket that is slightly bigger than the mold you are making.

2. Mix together the compounds you have chosen for your mold, such as a two-part silicone mold. Kits can be found at certain craft stores or online (see Resources below). Follow the instructions in the kit to eliminate any mistakes during mixing, and remember that each kit is slightly different.

3. Pour the mixture into the box or bucket you'll be making your master mold in. Lay the design facedown in the mold. If your design is wooden, it will float. If it is a heavy metal it may sink. Secure the mold with a string attached to the back so that it settles into the mold without sinking too deeply. You do not want the entire item covered.

4. Let the mold dry according the the kit's instructions. Do not fiddle with the mold while it sets up. This can cause your design to have flaws in it. Once it is completely dry, gently remove the wooden or metal design from the top of the mold. Then remove the mold from its box or bucket.

5. Prevent bubbles from forming when you cast your belt buckle by sprinkling a very fine layer of talcum powder on the bottom of the mold. Use a propane torch to melt the casting metal of your choice into the mold. Metals with lower temperature melting points, such as tin-bismuth lead alloy, will make your molds last longer.

6. Let the metal dry and harden. Once it is completely cool, remove your finished belt buckle. Sand the surfaces smooth. Decorate the buckle as you see fit, and attach to your belt. This can be done by using thread to sew the buckle on. You can also drill a few small holes at the end and pass a tiny nail through the hole and through the belt. Bend the tip down over the back of the belt to hold the buckle in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a metal with a higher melting point if you want a sturdier finished belt buckle, but remember they can cause your molds to crack and wear out faster.

• Use an exhaust hood or go outside in a well ventilated area when making your belt buckle. Make sure to read any specific instructions that come with your mold kit.

Resources

• Buy silicone mold kits at Special Effect Supply Corporation.