Hello this is my Barb Finger Mold!💅🏼 In this homework assignment I learned about Molding/Casting Process. For this assignment, I opted for the beginner assignment.

Given the demonstration in class, I felt pretty confident in my molding skills. However, there were still some learning curves along the way. I first began by measuring 1:1 alginate to water ratio to create my finger mold. This was a very cool process as I could see how within 8 minutes the texture of the alginate would change from a runny cake batter to a thick biscuit texture. I knew the mold was done when I could wiggle my fingers and the top of the alginate would separate easily from my finger.

Next, I used a 2:1 Paris Plaster to Water ratio. Important things I learned a.) exact measurements are very important. b.) demolding at the 20 minute mark is very important. Upon my first molding attempt, I left the plaster in the alginate for a few hours. This was bad as the plaster releases water and then cause the finger to not dry appropriately.  Thankfully, I was still able to salvage some of my first alginate mold, so I was able to repour the plaster, but I did go ahead and make another alginate mold. After waiting 25 minutes, I used an X-actoKnife to demold to avoid breaking intricate parts of my nail. These were the final fingers I pulled out.

Given the intricate geometry of my finger and nails, the alginate mold had air bubbles, that were later magnified in the Paris plaster. Thus, for post processing, I used a blade to shave off rough edges, shape my nails, and fix any imperfections. After, I used a pink spray paint to finish off my fingers.

Things I learned: Nails are not the best to mold, angle/placement of the nail matters, patience is key (don’t demold too early or too late).

Cost Analysis:

Paris Plaster for 4 lbs * 1/16=  0.44

Alginate: for 13 oz/2 = $3.75

Pink spray paint: Borrowed from OEDK

2 hours labor= $30

Total =34.19