Sculptamold Instructions

Instructions

AMACO Sculptamold, when mixed for modeling, should be blended with water in a proportion of approximately two parts Sculptamold to one part water by volume. Measure the dry powder into a plastic container, add the water and squeeze it into the mix with the hand. Be sure to break up any lumps so that the mixture is consistent throughout. Only mix an amount that can be used in about thirty minutes. Be sure to clean the mixing container between batches, removing all unused Sculptamold that has hardened.

Already-hardened Sculptamold acts as a catalyst, and speeds the setting action of a fresh batch. When pressing Sculptamold into a pressmold, the mixture should be thinner than for modeling. One three-pound bag of Sculptamold will make 141.75 cubic inches of solid material. Twelve three-pound bags will make one cubic foot of solid material.

Once the subject to be modeled in AMACO Sculptamold is chosen, oftentimes a core is made. Of course, Sculptamold may be modeled solid, but since it does not shrink, the use of an armature or core permits the construction of figures with a relatively small amount of compound. Almost anything may be used as a form…a wad of newspaper, used tempera container, bottle, can, balloon or any of numerous other objects, either “found” or constructed. Since Sculptamold adheres to almost any surface, be sure to protect the working area with paper or oilcloth.

Apply freshly mixed Sculptamold to the armature with the fingers, a bit at a time. Continue working until the armature is covered and the basic form of the object begins to emerge. Before smoothing the surface, moisten the hands and fingers with water. When working over a newspaper form, areas that are too high may be eliminated by pressing firmly with the thumbs, thus compressing the armature. The resulting depressions may be filled to the proper height with more Sculptamold. On armatures of glass or wood, excess Sculptamold may be scraped away or pressed thin with fingers or tools. Do not worry about “mistakes.” The workability and adhering qualities of AMACO Sculptamold allow reworking and changing at any stage of the project.

As the work progresses, smaller batches may be mixed for adding finer details. As the sculptor gains experience with Sculptamold, mixing becomes a matter of “feel” rather than measure and at different stages of work, the mixing technique may well vary. For example, when smoothing a surface or adding fine detail, a thinner mixture is often desirable.

The finishing touches may be done at any time, either after the mix has set up, which is usually within forty minutes or after the piece has been “cured;” that is, allowed to air dry completely or oven-dried at 200°F (93°C). When dry, Sculptamold may be carved or sanded and details may be added at any time with tools or additional Sculptamold. Pieces may mildew unless air-dried on all sides or cured in the oven.

When used in a press-mold, Sculptamold should be mixed in two batches. A small quantity, enough to cover the mold inner surface, should be mixed approximately one to one by volume of Sculptamold and water. Spread the “slurry” evenly and without bubbles over the entire inner surface of the press-mold, making certain that all areas are covered. A second batch, of modeling consistency, is then applied, to fill the mold while the first coat is still moist. Allow the piece to dry at least an hour before attempting to remove it from the mold. When free of the mold, the piece may be cleaned up and smoothed at the edges, then allowed to dry thoroughly before painting. If any bubble holes are present, they may be filled using Sculptamold like putty. Plastic and latex molds are easiest to use. Plaster molds must be treated with lacquer and plaster separator or the cast Sculptamold will not separate from the mold. Apply multiple coats until the mold feels like glass. For rough, quick casts, sand may be hollowed in a pattern and Sculptamold pressed into the depression. If your casting breaks when removing, use a white glue to repair broken pieces.

Because Sculptamold adheres so well to any surface, it is ideal for relief sculpture. Half-round or bas-relief may be done quite effectively on wood or other textural surfaces, or as plaques. Care must be taken with the placement of Sculptamold on the surface, since it adheres where it is placed and unwanted portions must be sanded away carefully. AMACO Sculptamold is chip resistant, but occasionally harm may come to a piece. If so, repairs may be made quite simply using a very small quantity of Sculptamold either as a patch for a chip or hole or as a bonding agent where a piece has broken off. Rub the patched area level with a moistened finger, allow to dry, then repaint to match the surrounding area. AMACO Sculptamold may be decorated with any paint, including water colors, acrylics, oil paints, and all Rub ‘n Buff products.